Celebrating Inspirational Mancunian Women
Happy International Women's Day! Every year on the 8th of March, The Manchester Shop celebrates the incredible women who make Manchester great - and this year is no exception. Our latest window display and brand-new print feature six fantastic women who inspire us and make us proud to be Mancunian.
This print also raises money for The Pankhurst Trust, a charity we support all year round. The Pankhurst Trust continues the legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst, combining the work of The Pankhurst Centre and Manchester Women’s Aid. They provide vital support for women experiencing domestic abuse while also promoting gender equality and education. Their work is essential in making Manchester a safer and fairer place for women.
Want to know more about the six incredible women we’ve chosen to highlight this year? Here’s why they inspire us - and why they deserve to be celebrated.
Emmeline Pankhurst
Born in Moss Side
A British political activist and leader of the suffragette movement, Emmeline Pankhurst played a vital role in securing women’s right to vote in 1918. She founded the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) from her home in Victoria Park - where The Pankhurst Trust is still based today. Emmeline is also the frontwoman of our Womanchester Collection, which raises funds for The Pankhurst Trust all year round.
Why we love her: She never took no for an answer and fought fearlessly for women’s rights, laying the groundwork for future generations.
DJ Paulette
Born in Manchester
A true pioneer of house and dance music, DJ Paulette started her career at the No1 Club Manchester. She quickly made waves with her first residency at Flesh Nites at The Haçienda from 1991 to 1995 - helping build the foundation of the legendary Madchester rave scene.
Why we love her: She’s a trailblazer who helped shape Manchester’s iconic dance scene, influencing generations of music lovers and DJs.
Professor Erinma Bell
Born in Moss Side
A peace activist recognised for her tireless work tackling gun crime in Moss Side and Longsight, Professor Erinma Bell co-founded CARISMA (Community Alliance for Renewal, Inner South Manchester Area) after witnessing a tragic shooting of a close friend. At its peak in 2007/2008, Greater Manchester experienced 146 shootings - many in Moss Side and Longsight. Her dedication has been pivotal in making Manchester a safer place for everyone.
Why we love her: She’s worked tirelessly to make Manchester safer, offering young people positive alternatives to street and gun crime.
Victoria Wood
Born in Prestwich
A multi-talented legend - comedian, actress, lyricist, singer, composer, pianist, screenwriter, producer, and director - Victoria Wood was truly a woman who could do it all. A BAFTA-winning actress, she was best known for her work in Dinnerladies, Housewife, 49, and her brilliant stand-up shows.
Why we love her: Her unforgettable appearance on Desert Island Discs, her hilarious Let’s Do It - The Ballad of Barry and Freda, and her perfectly relatable quote: "Life's not fair, is it? Some of us drink champagne in the fast lane, and some of us eat our sandwiches by the loose chippings on the A597."
Maxine Peake
Born in Bolton
Maxine Peake is known for her incredible range across TV, theatre, film, and radio. From starring in Dinnerladies to tackling avant-garde projects and powerful dramas like Black Mirror and Inside No. 9, she’s a true force of creativity. She’s also made waves in music collaborations and political activism.
Why we love her: Whether going head-to-head with a robotic dog in Black Mirror or collaborating with The Moonlandingz, Maxine’s bold, fearless approach to her craft makes her a true Manc legend. Don’t miss her in the brilliant Stockport-based comedy Early Doors - top telly!
Caroline Aherne
Brought up in Wythenshawe
A comedy genius, Caroline Aherne was best known for her sharp wit and relatable humour. She starred as the acerbic host Mrs Merton, appeared in The Fast Show, and co-wrote and starred as Denise in the iconic The Royle Family (1998–2012), winning multiple BAFTAs for her work.
Why we love her: From working with Frank Sidebottom in the '80s to DJing with Craig Cash and Jon Ronson in the '90s, she was also the original narrator of Gogglebox. A true Mancunian legend.
These six inspirational women embody the bold, creative, and fearless spirit of Manchester. This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to celebrate their achievements while supporting the vital work of The Pankhurst Trust.
Want to own a piece of Mancunian history while supporting a brilliant cause? Check out our special print featuring these incredible women - proceeds go to The Pankhurst Trust. Here’s to the women who make Manchester great - past, present, and future!