On Sunday, March 8, the world will observe International Women’s Day, commemorating social, political, economic, and cultural achievements of women around the world. While this day celebrates women and brings awareness to women’s rights and gender equality, it also serves as an opportunity to recognize and appreciate women who have positively impacted our lives, no matter how big or small!

So, from the staff here at IIN, here are some of the IINspiring women we’re celebrating:

I admire my mother. As my father said recently, “She's happiest when she's making things for others.” Supporting and inspiring others to be their best selves is simply what she does – whether working as a middle-school special education teacher, sending homemade treats for all major holidays, or driving to Manhattan at the drop of a hat when her 30-year-old daughter severely breaks her arm while arm wrestling. (True story, and yes, that was me.) Mama Wolff is truly magical, and absorbing even an ounce of her mothering magic would be the greatest gift imaginable.

– Jamie Wolff

My wife, Taylor, for her strength, dedication, and authenticity in all areas of life. As a social worker and personal trainer, she spends countless hours every week helping people live better, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. She leads with her heart and gracefully balances the demands of her profession with the needs of our business, while continuing to be the best life partner I could ever dream of.

– Zack Bodenweber

My mom has always been the one person who has inspired me since day one. Her positivity and strength amaze me every day. She pushes me to be the best I can be, and I am so thankful for that.

– Carlee Nussbaum

My wife, Helen Birney. She is a coach, parent, spouse, daughter, cousin, sister, and aunt. She always makes space for everyone and supports a large number of women in our town with their health and wellness goals. She is constantly pushing her personal growth while also pushing others to do the same. Helen is always her authentic self and is the most amazing person as a result.

– Nora McCaffrey

Stefanie Fuentes does amazing work with emotional health and wellness, especially helping her clients and audience create and respect boundaries. She impresses me with how prolific she is with her podcast and social media (@blcnewyork). Watching her videos gives me life and helps me think with a new perspective. She's a rock star doing good, meaningful work!

– Jon Fischer

My soul sister, Shanti Wintergate. A musician and artist, she is one of the most uplifting, creative, and loving people I've ever met. Through our friendship, I am reminded that the only way to live in a happy and positive world is to actually exemplify that. The work she creates always has a deeper purpose than just showcasing her talents (by the way, she is extremely talented). She constantly reminds me to be truthful to who I am and share love with others, and that inspires me to be better every day!

– Melissa Koller

My lifelong friend and honorary sister, Alexandra Hagney, is an endless source of inspiration for me. Aside from being the ultimate voice of reason in my own life, she's a do-it-all kind of woman who started shes-not-sorry.com alongside two of her colleagues. She's Not Sorry is dedicated to sharing personal stories of women taking back their power (and their "sorries") while pushing aside society's idea of "appropriate" female mannerisms.

– Rachael Colasanto

It’s hard to choose just one female, but I’d say my grandmother was and always will be an inspiring role model for me. My parents were relatively new to and settling down in the United States when they had me, so she left India to come and help raise me. She was the best playmate, story teller, teacher, and cheerleader and is overall one of the most loving human beings I've ever known. There’s so much more I can say, but I consider myself extremely lucky to have had her by my side for most of my life.

– Samvida Patel

I celebrate my mom, Aracelis Peguero, because she came to this country at a young age and was able to adapt to any situation that life presented. When my sisters and I started school, my mom noticed she was not going to be able to help us with homework or any school-related projects. Even though she was working a full-time job and running the household at the time, my mom still decided to enroll in college, just to help us. She was beyond overwhelmed but still managed to overcome that challenge while also teaching my father English. My mom is to be celebrated because she is what this country is made of and the perfect example of struggle and progress.

– Erick Peguero

Who are you honoring this International Women’s Day? Tell us in the comments below!

As the leading holistic nutrition and health coaching school, we’ve seen thousands of women empower themselves and countless other individuals in becoming the happiest and healthiest versions of themselves. Each week this month, we’re highlighting an IINspiring female from our global community and the incredible work they're doing to spread the ripple effect on our blog. Stay tuned for more on the #womenofIIN by following @nutritionschool on social media!