International Women's Day 2024

?I love this years IWD theme because it tells me we are consciously realising the power and impact of involving, encouraging, and supporting women in all aspects of life and the positive impact that has. I love that we, as a world, have realised that and are actively encouraging more women’s voices to be heard. I love what that means for my daughters and nieces - I love where this is going.??

Aysun Portoglou , VIC BDM

As a person passionate about gender equality, this year’s IWD theme means a lot to me. It highlights the importance of empowering women and girls economically, which is crucial for achieving gender equality. It reminds me of the challenges that women face in gaining equal access to education, financial services, and employment opportunities. It is a call to action to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality and empower women and girls to learn, earn, and lead.?

Iva Young , NSW/ACT BDM?

The generation before us silently fought for change - change was slow but we started to see some progress.?

Our generation has now found their voices and are not scared to fight for change publicly. While we have come a long way, we need to continue to fight and push for equality, in hope that the future generation won't have to fight anymore.??

The hope is that the generation ahead of us benefit from the equal opportunity and inclusion that has been mapped out for them by the generations before, and it is the way of life for them.?

The hope is that education opportunities are equal. Employment pathways are equal. Financial literacy is easily accessed. Participation is encouraged and supported. Women and men celebrate and support women and men in all aspects of life, equally.??

Naomi Sekeres , QLD BDM

This year’s theme for me is extremely poignant.? From a very early age I was fortunate to have been taught and guided to financial independence from my amazing single mother of two girls.? She spent many years navigating the barriers of financial inequality for woman as she worked full time and maintained a mortgage.??

Financial literacy should have no boundaries. I look forward to this year’s journey in discovering and participating in the progress we are all making in an effort to greater economic inclusion for women and girls.??

Natalie S. , VIC BDM

As a mother to a teenage daughter who is finding her feet in this world, this year’s theme is of particular importance to me. Women are incredible leaders, great communicators, great at building relationships, intuitive and empathetic in the workplace. It can only benefit businesses both large and small, and the economy in general, if we provide ample opportunity for females to be educated in financial literacy, given access to mentorship programs, given clear pathways to successful careers and a supportive workplace environment without gender bias and discrimination. Afterall, in many cases it’s these same women who are instrumental in shaping the next generation of leaders of any gender.?

Sarah Madigan , State Manager WA/QLD/SA/NT

Growing up without my father, I was raised in a household where a woman took on the role of provider. This inspired me to prioritize independence and build a career, ensuring I could support myself in case anything happened to a future spouse.?

As I've aged, I've recognized that every woman deserves the ability to be self-reliant and have a meaningful career. It shouldn't be about fearing what happens if a husband can't provide.?

Every woman has the right to equal opportunities to learn, earn, and lead.

? Kate Fatharly , WA BDM

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