For over a century International Women’s Day (IWD) has been a global day (March 8) to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s also a day that can remind us to mark a call to action for accelerating women’s equality everywhere.
Regardless of your gender, background, or economic status, International Women’s Day is your day to do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women. We recognise that the global awareness of this day comes different definitions and perceptions, so each year we go out to several women across the organisation to get them to share what International Women’s Day means to them. Here is what they had to say.
Kylie
For me International Women’s Day makes me reflect on all the wonderful special needs mums out there who are fighting the good fight every day and I want them to know that I see them and what they are going through.
Jill
The theme of IWD in 2022 is #breakthebias, so I will be reflecting on how structural barriers hold all of us back from genuine equality, and how we can continue to break down these barriers for future generations.
I will also be taking the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women I respect and admire, like my sister who has worked as a nurse educator and midwife in Melbourne throughout the pandemic and completed her Masters in Women’s Health Medicine at the same time. Or my two dearest friends who have each given birth to beautiful baby girls which juggling their legal careers.
Rachel
For me International Women’s Day is a great way to celebrate the achievements of women who have not only kicked goals in their professional careers but in motherhood as well. There are days when your strength can be tested in both roles but in the end, you surprise yourself with a newfound strength that was there all along.
Jodie
To me, International Women’s Day is the opportunity to celebrate women forging change. Over the years women have worked hard to have an equitable voice, gender parity and basic human rights. For those who care to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive world, this is one day that highlights progress and commemorates the achievements of women’s rights globally. Closer to home it is an opportunity to celebrate the women in our lives who empower, encourage and inspire those around them.
At Queensland Country we have numerous talented and hardworking women balancing family life and their professional careers.
International Women’s Day gives us the chance to recognise the incredible contribution these women make to our organisation whilst fulfilling their most important job, caring for their own families.
The women of Queensland Country Bank, leading through their actions, set a great example for younger generations that you can combine a successful career and a family.
They are an inspiration to us all.