October 21 is the Day of Businesswomen in Russia: history, traditions, congratulations

Every year on October 21, Russia celebrates the Day of Businesswomen. This holiday is designed to celebrate the contribution and achievements of women in the field of business and entrepreneurship. In 2025, the celebration falls on a Tuesday. Izvestia tells about the history and traditions of the festive date, as well as about famous women entrepreneurs.

Business Women's Day in Russia: the history of the holiday

The holiday was established in 2007 in order to support and inspire women working in various fields of entrepreneurship. Its history is closely connected with the name of Saint Margaret of Clitheroe, who is revered as the patroness of businesswomen. Her memorial day is celebrated on October 21.

According to the biography of the saint, she was born in the middle of the XVI century in the city of York, which today is the administrative center of the county of North Yorkshire in the north of England. She was raised in the bosom of the Anglican Church, but then converted to Catholicism.

At the age of 15, she was married to a York butcher. After the death of her husband, Margarita took control of the family business and soon became a well-known entrepreneur in the city, earning the nickname "The Pearl of York."

In addition, she became famous as the patroness of Catholics who were persecuted for their beliefs. Margarita provided shelter for the clergy, and Catholic Masses were secretly celebrated in her house. For her commitment to Catholicism and harboring priests, Margarita was executed when she was barely 30 years old. Four centuries later, the Catholic Church canonized her.

Despite the fact that the saint's name is not included in the "holy calendar" of the Russian Orthodox Church, she is revered in Russia. It is not for nothing that the Saint's memorial Day was chosen as the date of the celebration of the Day of Businesswomen.

In world practice, there is also a similar holiday — American Business Women's Day, which is celebrated on September 22 and is associated with the founding date of the Association of American Women in Business, which was formed in the United States in 1949.

Traditions of Business Women's Day in Russia

Traditionally, events are organized in Russian regions on this day to highlight the role of women in the development of business and the country's economy. These are all kinds of forums, contests and other events aimed at supporting women's entrepreneurship.

Since the holiday is of a business nature, it is often held in the format of business lunches, receptions or catering at specialized events.

However, the successes of women leaders are celebrated not only on holidays, but also on other days. For example, in the fall of 2025, several major meetings were held dedicated to Russian businesswomen.

The study revealed the characteristic features of Russian businesswomen

The key events were:

• The Business Lady of Russia competition, aimed at identifying and encouraging women who have made significant contributions to various sectors of the economy;

• The international business Forum Skolkovo Women's Forum, held on October 7 as a platform for networking and experience exchange;

• The Forbes Woman Summit (FWD), which took place on September 30 in Moscow and brought together women leaders.

The exhibition Her Story Gallery 2025, which will be held in St. Petersburg from October 23 to October 26, and the women's forum-workshop Woman Wings - the event is scheduled for November 16 and will be held in Moscow, are also scheduled for autumn.

Vivid examples of the success of Russian businesswomen

Modern Russia is rich in many examples of outstanding women entrepreneurs who have achieved significant success in various sectors of the economy. Their stories inspire a new generation of businesswomen.

Famous female entrepreneurs:

• Tatiana Bakalchuk is the founder of Wildberries, who created Russia's largest online retailer from scratch;
• Natalia Zolotykh is the founder of the Goods marketplace, who has developed a successful e-commerce business;
• Elena Bunia is the president of the Absolut Group of companies, which has built an international distillery holding company.;
• Elena Baturina is the president of Inteco Management, the widow of former Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov.

At the same time, modern women successfully realize themselves not only in business, but also in the political arena. History knows many examples of influential female politicians who have left a significant mark on world history.

Women in Politics: world leaders

• Margaret Thatcher— British Prime Minister (1979-1990), known as the "Iron Lady";
• Elizabeth II is the Queen of Great Britain, who ruled for more than 70 years.;
• Indira Gandhi— Prime Minister of India (1966-1977, 1980-1984);
• Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of Germany (2005-2021), one of the most influential women in the world;
• Viola Amerd has been President of Switzerland since January 1, 2024.

In Russia, women also occupy key positions in government. Their professional qualities and leadership abilities help shape the country's political course for many years to come.

Russian women politicians:

• Valentina Matvienko — Chairman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly;
• Elvira Nabiullina — Chairman of the Central Bank (CB);
• Tatiana Golikova — Deputy Prime Minister;
• Lyubov Glebova — Head of Rosobrnadzor;
• Olga Lyubimova is the Minister of Culture.

How to congratulate on October 21st

On this day, it is customary to congratulate businesswomen, noting their dedication and professionalism. Business accessories, stylish interior elements for the office, and gift certificates for educational courses are appropriate as gifts.

Congratulations on the Day of Businesswomen:

"Dear businesswomen! We sincerely congratulate you on the Day of Businesswomen and wish that your energy and enthusiasm never run out. Let every difficulty on your way become a stepping stone to new achievements and professional growth. Stay leaders who don't just run a business, but create new standards in entrepreneurship by inspiring with your example!"

"Congratulations on the Day of Russian Businesswomen to those who daily prove that success in business has no gender restrictions! We wish you that your experience and wisdom will help you find innovative solutions even in the most difficult situations, and your business acumen will allow you to reach new heights. Let your career ambitions not hinder your personal happiness, and your family always remains a reliable home front!"

"Dear businesswomen of Russia! On your professional holiday, we would like to wish that each project brings not only financial well-being, but also a sense of deep satisfaction. May your dedication and professionalism serve as an example for the younger generation of businesswomen. We wish that your inspiration never leaves you, and that new ideas are implemented successfully!"

"We cordially congratulate the representatives of the fair sex, who have established themselves as successful entrepreneurs and managers! On your holiday, we wish the business to bring stable income and open up new horizons for development. May your reputation as a reliable partner strengthen with each new deal, and may your professional authority grow with each completed project!"

"Dear women entrepreneurs and managers, please accept my warmest congratulations on the Day of Russian Businesswomen! We wish your business not only to flourish, but also to become a benchmark for the entire industry, an example of efficiency and innovation. May each of your ideas find support from partners and be translated into successful projects. We wish you an inexhaustible source of strength to conquer new heights and realize your most ambitious plans. Stay those who are not afraid of change and know how to turn the challenges of the time into new opportunities!"

Earlier, Izvestia reported on the Day of Russian Entrepreneurship, which is celebrated annually at the end of May.

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