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As part of International Women’s Day 2026, St John recognises the vital contributions of women across the organisation. Maria Mejia’s journey, from award-winning Instructor to national training leader and frontline responder, highlights the impact of education, leadership, and service in strengthening communities. Her story reflects the powerful difference women make at St John every day.

Sonia Guille, Guernsey’s first female paramedic, has spent over 30 years serving with St John Ambulance, leading teams, responding to emergencies, and breaking barriers. Honoured with her 30-Year Long Service medal, she inspires through her skill, leadership, and dedication to her colleagues and community.

Following International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the remarkable women of St John who lead change, inspire hope, and shape brighter futures worldwide. This week, we celebrate Annette Lovich from Hato Hone St John, who turned personal tragedy into a life of service as an EMT and Peer Support Officer, supporting colleagues and the community with compassion and dedication.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate Sylvia Chopamba, Mother and Baby Programme Manager at St John International, whose leadership ensures every mother and child receives high-quality care across Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. Through the Mother and Baby Programme, standardised guidance, real-time learning, and community collaboration help volunteers deliver consistent support, improving maternal and child health outcomes across the region.

Grace, a mother of seven from Uganda, once faced pregnancy and childbirth with fear and uncertainty. Through the Mother and Baby Programme, she gained knowledge about antenatal care, skilled facility deliveries, immunisation, and family planning, transforming her experience from risk and anxiety to confidence and informed decision-making. Her story highlights how access to health education and community support can change the future for mothers and their children.

Anita, from Malawi enrolled into the Mother and Baby Programme at four months into her fifth pregnancy. 

“I am pregnant again, but I am afraid to start antenatal care,” she told volunteers during a routine home visit. “I haven’t started antenatal care because I am afraid the nurses will shout at me, and I feel embarrassed,” she explained.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, the Mother and Baby Programme in Kenya is helping mothers access early antenatal care, skilled deliveries, and home support. Stories like Brenda’s and Kristabel’s show how timely care, community guidance, and health innovations are saving lives and improving maternal and child health.