“Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity.”
In 1911, 146 young women, most of whom were immigrants, were killed in a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York, after being locked in the building and having no way out. These 146 women had unsuccessfully attempted a strike at that same factory, only the year before; they hoped to gain union recognition, equal and fair wages and conditions, compared to their male colleagues. The owners refused to give in, and the women returned to work and kept working under unpleasant conditions and being underpaid.
To celebrate their heroism, International Women’s Day has since been celebrated across the globe as a sign of respect and to honour these women who stood up for their rights during a time where it was near impossible to do such thing.
Today, we celebrate the women in our lives and all their accomplishments and successes.
It’s my turn today to talk about women that inspire me… I have been lucky to be surrounded by confident, hard-working women throughout my life. Women that motivate me every day to do better, to be better.
Growing up, my Mum always showed me that nothing is impossible. She worked 40 hours a week and studied at night for years. She gave up her job and moved to another country seeking a better quality of life for us both. She worked nearly 70-hour weeks at one point. She has a fantastic work ethic and is a doer; she worked hard and began a new career in Trust. My Mum is now a qualified Trust professional with nearly 10 years’ experience in the industry!
My Mum has always done better, for me. She showed me that taking risks can be fun. That the worst that can happen if you try something, is that it won’t work out – but that’s better than wondering ‘what if’ forever. I am grateful for the life lessons I’ve learnt from her. She is an extraordinary, inspirational woman, and I am so proud of her.
There’s a world out there, and I am beyond excited to see more women grow into senior roles and set their own paths, their own careers.
“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish” - Michelle Obama