This week, I had the opportunity to attend an International Women’s Day event at the Hyatt Regency in Brisbane CBD.
Joanne Fricker, Founder and Director of Diamond Experiences moderated an interesting and diverse panel, including Nadia Bromley, CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland; Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, Artist; Phoebe Parsons, Freelancer and Creator of Confessions of a Train Wreck, and Rohan Sawyer, CEO of Queensland Rugby League.
The panellists each shared their personal lived experience and focused on how they have used their unique strengths and experiences in their pursuit to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, where individual difference is valued and celebrated.
A key takeaway for me personally, was when Phoebe and Rohan discussed the significance of building strong relationships and learning to trust in yourself to have the confidence to ask for what you want. Leaders have an important role to create a supportive work culture in which all individuals are provided the same opportunities to grow, develop and succeed. However, the responsibility also lies with us as individuals to provide those in our network with clarity around our goals and desires.
It was a rewarding experience to spend the morning surrounded by strong leaders and community advocates who are taking action to drive gender parity. Embrace Equity! International Women's Day March 8 is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality and equity.
I thank IPCIUM for creating an environment in which I feel supported and encouraged to attend events such as this year’s International Women’s Day event.
Ivana Steyn, Research Assistant & Accredited Exercise Physiologist, IPCIUM
