We asked some of the awesome wāhine at N4L a few questions about what International Women’s Day means to them.
Celebrated since 1911, it’s all about gender diversity celebrating women from across the globe and has an important theme of embracing equity. It’s a day where we’ve all got an opportunity to be part of a positive step to a diverse, equitable and inclusive world where difference is valued and celebrated.
We’re showcasing a handful of our inspiring N4L women to learn more about what embracing equity means and find out what advice and learnings they’ve valued in their careers.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #EmbraceEquity, what does this mean to you?
MICHELLE #EmbraceEquity to me means embracing diversity and what makes each of us unique. I think sometimes we seem to bend too far one way or the other, which actually starts to take us away from equity. So to me, it’s about remembering everyone has equal rights, and equal opportunities should be open to everyone to strive towards.
GAIL #EmbraceEquity reminds us that it is not just a women’s issue, but a bigger issue that affects us all. It’s about recognising the value of diversity and creating an environment where everyone has access to opportunities regardless of gender or a multitude of other factors.
KELLY Embracing equity (to me) means acknowledging and shifting traditional societal norms that create an uneven playing field. Cultivating a societal norm of inclusivity and diversity to help everyone succeed – without bias, no matter what gender they are.
Why did you choose to work in your chosen field?
MICHELLE I accidentally fell into technology because of my interest in data and systems. To me, technology is a great enabler of people and it’s there not to take away jobs, but to make people’s lives easier and allow them to focus on the things that matter.
ARCHANA I choose to work in technology/engineering because I believe that technology is the most portable job field. Besides, innovative ideas are only one aspect of technology; you also need to work in technology to investigate how those ideas will function in the actual world.
KIRAN Growing up I had a real love for science and then maths. While at university alongside maths, I studied some business and finance modules, and from there I found a great way to combine my love for numbers and interest in the world of business through a career in finance.
If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
GAIL Frida Kahlo, Malala Yousafzai and Sarah Hirini. They’re all unique, inspiring women and I think the conversation would be super interesting. Malala’s determination and bravery in advocating for girls’ education in the face of danger are incredible. Frida was well-known for her work that explored identity, gender and race. I’d be keen to hear about her life story and how she channelled her experiences, pain and passion into her art. Sevens captain, Sarah Hirini won the Sport NZ Leadership award at the Halberg Awards, and her acceptance speech reinforces #EmbraceEquity “I will continue to try and make even more change, break down barriers and help lay the platform that every young girl and boy watching right now deserves.”
KELLY Jacinda Ardern, Dolly Parton and Mindy Kaling. They’re all strong female icons and each have a great sense of humour. I think they would all bring some amazing stories to the table about their individual journeys (and lots of laughter!) to the table.
When you look back over your career, what advice will you give to your younger self
KIRAN To have more self-belief and to put your hand up for every opportunity that comes along.
MICHELLE Don’t be afraid to try things, and do things you are passionate about. Success is different for everyone and it’s up to you to define your own success, not anyone else.
GAIL Be authentic and be yourself, not who other people want you to be. You’re unique and will have different perspectives to bring to the table. Believe in yourself and have confidence in your abilities – you’ve worked hard to get where you are, and deserve to be there.
How can we support and empower the next generation of girls and young women to reach their full potential?
GAIL It requires a concerted effort from society as a whole. This includes access to education, mentors and opportunities such as internships; celebrating positive role models; promoting diversity; and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
MICHELLE
I think the most important thing we can do is simply be there, answer questions, and be a good role model: show them what is possible. Let’s embrace the present and look to the future. The mindset should be to set those who have the tenacity and the drive on the path to success and open doors for them where we can.
IWD 2023’s campaign theme aims to get the world talking about why “equal opportunities are no longer enough.” Read more at https://www.internationalwomensday.com/.