The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “Accelerate Action” – a call to recognise and advance the strategies, resources and initiatives driving progress for women worldwide.
Today we celebrate Irwell’s Risk and Compliance Officer, Juliana Basso’s professional and personal achievements on International Women’s Day.
Juliana, born in Sao Paulo, Brazil moved to the UK in the summer of 2017. She graduated with a degree in Law and worked as a Solicitor in Brazil before joining Irwell. She has extensive experience in litigation involving disputes with large companies and government entities – in both English and Portuguese!
On International Women’s Day Juliana shares her journey from Brazil to Prestwich, the differences for working women in Brazil and UK and how she juggles being a working mum to her 4-year-old son.
Who has been your strongest influences in life that led you on your career path?
The biggest influences in my life and career have been my family. My dad passed away when I was very young, and seeing my mum handle all the bureaucracy and solicitors really stuck with me. She always taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance.
What do you most appreciate in your work environment?
I am a big fan of Irwell, and I believe what makes Irwell special are the people. I’ve found a group of talented and supportive colleagues which makes it a great place to work. Additionally, the company offers fantastic opportunities for us to study and perfect our skills which is something I truly appreciate.
Biggest differences in opportunities for working women in Brazil and the UK?
I’ve noticed big differences in opportunities for working women between Brazil and the UK.
In Brazil there is a larger gender equality gap. Based on my own experience, women have to work harder to prove themselves and achieve recognition, especially Afro-Brazilian women who face extra barriers.
In the UK, the professional environment feels more balanced, with better support for women’s career advancement. Both countries are making progress in gender equality, but there’s still work to do.
How would colleagues describe you?
I would say funny, determined, and feisty…not necessarily in this order!
What are you most proud of professionally?
I know I still have a long way to go, but I’m really proud of every small win. Restarting my career in a new country has been both challenging and rewarding. I’ve had to adapt my skills and figure out a new professional landscape. Despite the obstacles, I’m proud of what I’ve built and proud of this version of myself.
And personally?
I believe career and personal life go hand in hand and I’m very proud of my little family and every single friendship I’ve built. They are the reason I keep moving forward.
What has been the biggest challenge for you to get where you are today?
The biggest challenge has been me! I sometimes have the feeling that I am not good enough, strong enough, skilled enough and overcoming that mindset has been a significant hurdle.
What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?
“Work hard and ask.” This is why you’ll always see me asking questions, sharing my opinions and trying to understand how things work. There’s no better way to learn than embracing the fact that we don’t know everything, being open to experiencing the new and unknown and then working very hard to consolidate that knowledge. It’s 99% perspiration and 1% inspiration!
What career advice would you give to your son?
Don’t see your career as a straight path. Each step is like adding a brick to your career wall. Sometimes, you might feel off track, but taking on new challenges and filling skill gaps makes you stronger.
Don’t compare yourself to others or focus on job titles. Just keep building your career and trust yourself in every single step. It’s not about the finish line but the journey that makes you unstoppable!
Dream job growing up?
I really wanted to be a scientist and work in Antarctica. I probably didn’t consider back then that I love summer and would be a miserable soul over there!
What was your first job?
I was an intern at ABN AMRO Bank in the legal team when I was 18 years old. In Brazil, we can work while attending university, so I used to work full-time and go to uni in the evenings… those were long days.
Have you ever felt discriminated against in any place of work because of your gender or nationality?
Of course I have, it is not easy to be a woman with a voice! I never had any problem to stand up for myself and others, so these challenges have shaped me into a more resilient and empathetic person.
How do you switch off from work?
I am not going to lie; a glass of wine helps me to unwind!
Which woman do you most admire and why?
I am lucky to have always been surrounded by incredible women, but the woman I admire most is my mum. She’s incredibly brave, loving and resilient. Even though she never had a career, she made sure all 4 of her children could graduate and chase our dreams. Her support and determination inspire me and make me grateful for everything she’s done for us.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I have so much advice I’d love to give, but I believe life is a curve and the more we experience, the more we learn.
Here’s something that might be useful for anyone trying to find themselves; stop worrying so much about what others think of you. Embrace your unique journey and be proud of your identity. Finding your own path isn’t always tidy and there’s nothing wrong with being different. Also, your career can be something you enjoy, but it doesn’t have to be everything in your life.
What advice would you give young women looking to work in male dominated sectors?
Don’t be afraid to embrace the journey and take every opportunity you can. Build strong professional relationships with colleagues. Remember that your expertise and dedication are your greatest assets, so work hard, stay informed, and be curious. Being a woman and having a different perspective can be a big strength.
3 tips to working mums about managing the work-life balance
I think we need to rocognise that work and family are two inseparable parts of life and that they can complement each other.
- Accept that you can’t control everything: Maintain an optimistic view and understand that unexpected events will happen. Instead of getting frustrated, see these moments as part of the process. Flexibility and adaptability are key.
- Wherever you are, be there: Give yourself permission to keep your mind and body in the same place. If you are working, focus on your tasks and work hard without feeling guilty. When it’s time to be with your family, spend real, quality time with them.
- Have an open dialogue: Communicate openly with your family and colleagues about your needs and challenges. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
3 things that make you angry
Injustice, bad traffic and finding an empty treat drawer.
3 things that make you smile
Thinking of my family, a beautiful sunset and when one of my favourite songs plays on the radio.
#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction
Everyone, everywhere can build on IWD’s achievements in forging positive change for women and girls worldwide. Everybody can Accelerate Action by embracing diversity of gender, race, age, equality in education and breaking the glass ceiling.
Today is all about the resilience and achievements of women worldwide and push for a future where equal opportunities are a reality for all.