Empowered women, empower women! Inspiring women from all over the world have come here to share their unique stories...
2019 was the launch of our inaugural International Women's Day project, and we were so excited and humbled to share the stories of 100 unique and admirable women. They each joined forces with Sophia. to share their stories and to help inspire women from all around the world. Every one of these women received a set of the Sophia. International Women's Day gift cards and chose three (or more) amazing females to pass these cards onto.
In case you haven't already seen our International Women's Day project, the aim is to create a beautiful and inspiring initiative that will be celebrated each year. Women from all walks of life are able to purchase a set of gift cards and then fill each card with words of love, appreciation, support and thankfulness to pass onto someone that they know and love or even a complete stranger!
THE GOAL FOR 2019 WAS TO REACH 10 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES, GET MORE THAN 300 WOMEN TO PARTICIPATE AND TO SEND GIFT CARDS TO MORE THAN 1000 INSPIRING WOMEN. THIS IS WHAT WE ACHIEVED AND IN 2020, OUR GOAL IS EVEN BIGGER:
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WOMEN FROM ACROSS THE WORLD HAVE JOINED IN
ON THIS PROJECT |
COUNTRIES HAVE BEEN POSITIVELY IMPACTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT
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CARDS ARE ON THEIR WAY TO INSPIRING WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE
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A NOTE FROM SOPHIE - THE FOUNDER OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY PROJECT
This project has been two years in the making and I'm so excited that it has finally come to fruition! I wanted to celebrate International Women's Day in a way that nobody ever has before and to be able to inspire women across the globe to come together to support and love one another.
As I sit here today, reading the masses of emails from women who want to take part in this project, I'm crying. Tears of happiness because the women who have taken part are bringing my vision to life. Tears of pride because when I read their stories and see a little part of who they are, I can see that they are all hardworking, wonderful and loving people who deserve recognition. And last of all, tears of empathy when I learn of their sorrows, heartbreaks and struggles.
The women who's stories you're about to read are truly inspirational and I can't believe how lucky I am to have them help lift this project off the ground! Below each woman shares a bit about themselves, what International Women's Day means to them, who they'll be giving their cards to and why, and a piece of inspirational advice for women all around the world. Let's make this go viral and see how many women we can inspire this International Women's Day with this not-for-profit project!
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REBECCA WILCOCK - Queensland
My name is Rebecca Wilcock and I am the wife to an incredibly supportive husband, mother to 3 gorgeous little girls that I am raising to be confident, empowered and strong and the owner of three online businesses - Messano (sunglasses), Level Blends (aromatherapy oil blends specially for women that help Level your emotions - soon will be launching bath and body range) and Coal Clean Australia (charcoal teeth whitening to increase women’s self esteem). Supporting women is very important to me as a business owner and I even incorporated it into my business Messano. Every time someone purchases a pair of our sunglasses, we gift a pair on the customers behalf to a woman experiencing homelessness or domestic violence through our relationship with the Share the Dignity Australia charity. International women’s day is every day to me! I am constantly ensuring to remind my girls, my sister, my mother, my 95 year old grandmother and all of my friends that they are amazing women that are idols in my life. I will give one card each to my little girls which will tell them what my hopes are for them growing up in this world as a strong, caring and kind woman. My advice is that women truly are super human. We can do anything we put our minds to. Yes some of us can have a bad day, but it’s just that.. a bad day, not a bad life! Live every moment, love, laugh, be kind, raise confident and strong children and do everything you could possibly ever dream of doing xxx |
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JORDAN SCHOUTEN - Australian Capital Territory
My name is Jordan Schouten and I am a holistic wellness coach that helps women heal their bodies naturally through mindset, nutrition and exercise. Over my time as a coach I have seen the devastating effects that our mainstream medical system has caused our women, resulting in them being dependent on medications and treatments. It is my role and duty to show women how to break free from those chains and be in full control of their bodies. I help people to understand their own bodies so they can make the most informative decision for them. Mindfulness, nutrition and exercise are fantastic tools we can use to enhance our bodies and our health and take back control of our lives. I no longer want to see women controlled by debilitating period pain, PCOS, endometriosis, menopausal issues, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, head aches and the list goes on. Women live with these symptoms every day and pretend it’s normal when it’s not. My mission is to inform women everywhere that they can live free and happy and be in control of their own bodies. International women’s day is a day of empowerment to women. It is about identifying our uniqueness and embracing our individuality. We all have so much to offer, and I believe it is a day where we can really shine and show our strength to the world. Women coming together is a force and a movement. I have three beautiful clients that I would love to share these cards with that have overcome large health obstacles to be beautiful vibrant women. They have kicked the medication and got back in touch with themselves, which is amazing. I would like to show them my gratitude for allowing me to help them through a tough time, and congratulating them on their strength and self belief. My one piece of advice to women everywhere is that most women have no idea how good their bodies are designed to feel. We can have it all, career, family and health. You do not have to sacrifice your health in order to get ahead with career and family. Women put themselves last and push away those minor problems, which later on become massive problems. We need to start looking after ourselves first and know that our stress, anxiety, depression, head aches, stomach aches, back aches, knee pain, fatigue, insomnia, infertility are NOT normal, and we can change that. Let’s find a new normal of health for women so we can truely succeed with strength and determination (without the burnout at the end) |
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CAROL BEAUMONT - New Zealand
I am a mum to three beautiful kids, Bella who is 4, Braxton who is 6 and Brody who is 9 and I live in Kaiapoi, New Zealand. I started my business working from home when my children were little so that I had the flexibility to keep my passion and career going, maintain and income and still be able to be there for all those precious moments with my kids. My business is called Beautique Gifts and Design. I am a graphic designer and I specialise in personalised photo and typography prints. I love being able to customise my work to make each piece special for my clients. I also do graphic design for businesses including logos and branding, wedding stationery, basically everything and anything, I love a challenge! In my spare time I am part of a local dance and fitness group called the hot mamas. Since joining, I have lost 35kgs and have gained so many amazing and inspiring women as new friends. We not only dance and exercise together but we support and empower each other constantly, it's amazing to be part of. Lots of us run our own businesses from home and we all have created this incredible gang of boss babes who can get through anything. So when I think of International Women's Day, I think of these ladies and all the other wonderful female friends I have who support me through everything, no matter what they may be going through in their own lives. So many women I know, along with myself juggle so much yet still have time for kindness and I think this is what celebrating International women's day is all about. I have chosen 3 special women in particular to give my cards to, although it was very hard as I know so many. My first is Michelle Emery. She runs Funkdafied Dance Club and is our hot mamas dance teacher. She also teaches children's classes and has 4 children of her own. But she is more than a dance teacher, she's one of the most amazing, down to earth and humble people I know. She inspires so many women to be the best versions of themselves and she brings us all together. She was a huge support to me during my weight loss journey and we have become great friends and I am forever in awe of how she manages everything with such talent, organisation and kindness. The next wonderful human is Tegan Clark. She runs Tegan Clark Photography, specialising in wedding and family photography. We have been friends since our very first jobs where we would only dream about how epic our careers would be one day, and now here we are, both are living our dreams. Her business has grown incredibly and I am so proud of her. Tegan also has 2 beautiful girls and is constantly spreading acts of kindness wherever she can. Last not least is my gorgeous friend Kirsten Smart. We became fast friends doing the hotmamas class together and found we had so much in common. Kirsten not only runs her own business creating stunning jewellery, The Jewellery Bar, but she is also an ambulance officer and a mum to two toddlers. The way she juggles everything she does inspires me and she is seriously one of the kindest people I know. She will go out of her way to help others even though she has so much on her own plate, she always goes the extra mile. I think the message that most inspires me is that kindness breeds kindness, so pay it forward, help where you can, you never know another persons struggles and small acts of kindness can truly make someones day. Surround yourself in positive people and believe in yourself. Empowered women, empower women. |
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NATALIE CHURCHILL - Gold Coast, Queensland
I live on the Gold Coast with my partner and a mumma to two toddlers, Zayla and Kellan. I love the beach, exploring new places and gardening. I have been busy creating a new business that is due to launch late Feb/early March, called Only Dream Dresses. It will be an online marketplace for people to sell or hire out their preloved wedding dresses. There is alot of financial waste but also environmental impact in the fashion industry especially when a speciality item such as wedding dress is only worn on the one occasion. My mission is to give every bride the opportunity to wear a designer dress on her wedding day, but also to inform women that buying a pre-loved wedding dress will save them money and will also reduce carbon emissions. International Womens Day is to celebrate the achievements of women globally and to create a focus of empowerment and inequalities around women. I will give my three cards to my mum, my mother-in-law (as they are both obvious choices and have inspired me to be the person I am today) and my business coaches, Jacqui and Helen. I have only known these two women a short amount of time but they have given me so much in my business journey. One piece of inspirational advice I have is a quote that I would like to share. "Self-confidence is the best outfit. Rock it, own it" - Lisa Messenger |
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NICHOL STARK - New South Wales I believe that diversity breeds compassion! I’m a proud advocate for inclusive workplaces, filled with driven female leaders who support innovation, individuality and diversity! I’ve enjoyed success as a woman in tech for more than 20 years, and the simple truth is, women need more support, encouragement and opportunities, and the space to grow! Thriving in technology as a professional woman can be challenging! I understand the complexities and adversity we face in our attempt to strive in a male-dominated industry. For me, motivating, inspiring and supporting women in tech to “make a positive impact” as leaders is what lights me up every day! I specialise in helping high performing women in technology enhance their leadership capabilities, build confidence and elevate their careers to the next level! International Women's Day to me, means an opportunity to shed light on challenges faced by women across the world, as well as raise awareness of the fantastic work that women have accomplished and to continue to build male allies, I have chosen to give my three gift cards to my mum - for selflessness and raising me to be tolerant and appreciative and my 2 daughters – as I want them to be brave and be bold with all that life can offer them. I'd like women all over the world to know that you should surround yourself with people who support you, not tear you down. Everyone has a voice, an experience, a presence, a burning desire to contribute. Use your voice, lead with passion and purpose. |
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JENNIFER DE CARLO - New Zealand My name is Jeni, I'm a small town artist with a huge passion for creating art and turning art into video content to share. I recently had my work shared by Laura Lee and Tati Westbrook which was really exciting for me and I'm hoping to grow my art business. International Women's Day is important to me because I believe that we need to uplift and inspire other women and show them their worth and importance in this heavy world. I will be giving the three cards to my mum, who never gave up on me and my dreams to be an artist even while battling with a mental and physical illness. The other two, I will give to my best friends who understand me and support me like sisters and bring me coffee when I need it! My advice to women out there is to start on your dreams now, future you will thank you for it. Don't set your dreams aside. Reach for them and work hard - and then work harder. |
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ANDREA BLONDEL - Auckland, New Zealand
I was born and bred in Auckland and spent a lot of my childhood and teenage years playing sport, boating and riding horses. I love the beach and the ocean and spending time with my two wonderful sons and the rest of my family and close friends. I have a guilty secret of being an avid reader of whodunnits and watching anything historic with beautiful costumes and sets! I worked for ten years (before children) in advertising and marketing, and the last twenty years running my own interiors business. My dream is to grow my business to support my son and (and hopefully be able to eventually bring in some friends and family into the fold) to provide world-class natural products with the lowest practical impact on the environment. My brand is nectar and I work seven days a week on developing products, branding, marketing and actually making all the products here in Howick. I keep telling myself a holiday WILL come one day LOL. I have always promoted the strength that women have! Personally, I was left in my late twenties, having given up a career in marketing (not so many women were doing this then) to have a child after a marriage spanning ten years to then be left holding the baby at 3 months old. Once I got my act back together, I ran my own business as an interior designer and owned my own home and raised my boy. Since then I have had another long term relationship which again left me looking after my second son on my own who has major anxiety issues. I have spent the last ten years representing him, home schooling him and trying to keep our heads above water with no support. He is now an integral part of 'nectar' being unable to work outside the home - this is my full time business which had been a hobby business while we were going through the worst of our troubles. I decided last October to take it full time - leave my position as an in-home consultant for a curtain company - and try to build something that will give us a lifestyle and him some sort of employment security. One of the gift cards goes to my friend Emilia who was brought to NZ by her South African husband and then left for another woman. She suffers from Ulcerative Colitis - a debilitating illness - but has risen to the challenge and provided a lovely home nevertheless for their two young girls on her own. The next would be for my friend Natalie - who taught intermediate children for years but, upon learning more and more of what I was going through with my younger son and getting no support from his college, became an RTLB - a specialist support teacher for children and youth with special learning diabilities. All while she supported her own children at school and university and her husband's business! The third would go to Justine - who looks like her life is pretty charmed with a great couple of kids and a loving husband but who has had to take the reins of the family when they ran into major financial difficulties a year ago. She is such a hard worker! One piece of inspirational advice that I'd like to share with women all over the world is to never give up, enjoy your children as much as you can and remember to look after your happiness! |
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TAMMIE HORTON - Australian Capital Territory
I am a 49 year-old mum of three beautiful adult children. I was born in Sydney but grew up in Canberra, when my father was posted there with the Navy and I have spent most of my life here, except for five years when I lived in Perth. The majority of my career has been in the Australian Public Service in lots of different roles but I left last October to start up my own business, Phynix Initiative, to help people find the Phynix within through motivation mapping, resilience coaching and mental health education. The reason why I started my business is because I have faced my own battles with depression and anxiety, and other close family members and friends have also battled with mental health conditions and we have all struggled with maintaining friendships, employment and being connected to community and if we had had access to very early invention services we may not have struggled so much. It is not just people who have diagnosed mental health conditions that need this type of support. It is anyone who is experiencing some form of psychological distress whether it is through illness, grief/loss, financial difficulties, trauma, toxic workplaces, addiction or relationship difficulties. I know that over the time that I have been managing staff, there have been people who have been dealing with a lot outside of the workplace and this in turn has impacted on their performance but because of my own struggles, I have been understanding and talked with them about what they needed and have supported them during this time. I certainly wasn’t popular with managers above me but my view is that people come first because without the people there is no organisation. International Women’s Day is an opportunity for women to celebrate their achievements, to showcase what we are capable of and to support those that are struggling to find their place in the world. I am giving my cards to three friends of mine, one who has been doing it very tough the past 15 months to let her know that she is loved and that she is worth more than she thinks, the second one to a friend who has inspired me through her dedication to help other women to develop their “inner Diva (goddess)” and lastly, one that has stuck with me through thick and thin and is so generous with her spirit, her smile lights up the room. My advice is that every day is a challenge but each day we can rise up like the Phynix from the ashes and start again. To be a Phynix is to be: Passionate – Live as if you are on fire from within Hope-full – Once you choose hope, anything is possible Young-at-heart – Be open to new experiences and develop a beginner’s mind Noetic – We are all part of an inter-connected whole – be inspired to take action to help humanity Indomitable – Be strong, brave and determined Xtraordinary – Why fit in when you were born to stand out |
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JEN BOWERS - New South Wales
I am a graphic designer/illustrator with 4 small businesses, Pink Pom Pom Printables, Pink Pom Pom Kids, Pink Pom Pom Design and the latest addition to the stable Pink Pom Pom Social. All of these businesses are based around graphic design and my target markets are women. Printables is inspirational, uplifting printable quotes, Kids is wall art and party decor, Design is branding for for female owned businesses and Social is a social media content membership providing content to businesses and bloggers who are time poor or confused by social media yet need beautiful graphics and photographs to post each day. To me, International Womens Day is about celebrating all women but to me personally about celebrating the strong women... the ones who have risen above adversity to succeed in whatever they have chosen to do. They have survived the storm and learned to adjust their sails. I haven't chosen yet but they will be give to women that I want to encourage... that are perhaps in a situation they'd like to change but feel trapped because of circumstances beyond their control. I want them to know they can do this! My first business was formed when I was in a very bad place, it helped me rise above the situation and allowed me to be able to leave it behind. I want to help other women achieve this too. I'd like women all around the world to know "Actually you can" |
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JESS TURUNEN - Queensland
I am a 28 year old wife and mother, mindset mentor, and international pageant titleholder. I was crowned Mrs Australia in 2017, and in 2018 I travelled to Vegas and against all the other beautiful Mrs of the world, and much to my complete shock, I won the international title of Mrs Continents 2018. Following my international win I wrote a self help book called "Cut The Crap", and moved interstate to the sunny Gold Coast with my husband and two little boys. I have just taken over directorship of The Australian Continents Pageant, so I am currently organising the coronation event for our upcoming Australian contestants, which is a super exciting concept for me as a mindset mentor, now being able to influence and coach these beautiful women to being the best version of themselves. International Women's Day for me is a celebration of all the incredible things that women are capable of, and applauding women for their ability to overcome adversity and create sisterhood from the darkest of places. It is a reflection of how far we have come on the journey to equality, and a reminder to strive for further progress. I am going to gift all three of my cards to the Gold Coast charity Baby Give Back. They provide essentials to families in need, and they deal with mothers daily who do not get the recognition they deserve for how hard they are fighting to be the very best mothers and women they can be. Some of these women have escaped domestic violence, some live under the poverty line, and others are just struggling financially beneath the pressure of a single income and multiple children and bills. I know that the words inside those cards will provide comfort and reassurance to someone who desperately needs it, and who doesn't have the pleasure of hearing it enough. The one piece of advice I would give to women all over the world is "You are not your story, but your story is the key to finding yourself" It means that you are not all the terrible things that have happened to you. You are not your past, you are not your trauma, but by utilising those lessons and standing to rise above them, you create your own power and become unstoppable. When you realise that the things that used to weigh you down become the ground beneath your feet, you realise how truly tall and powerful you have become. |
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CASSANDRA ROBERTS - Queensland
I am a social worker and meditation teacher living in Brisbane working in the mental health field and have recently founded Wild Potential. Wild Potential is about creating an exciting world where every person is comfortable to realise and reach their full Wild Potential. It lights a fire in my belly seeing people live a life true to their own personal values, where they work hard to achieve goals they set themselves and reap the rewards. I work with people individually and in groups mentoring them on practices like that of meditation, goal setting and accountability, changing mindsets and discovering personal values, to name a few, to help them take control of their own lives and to find their Wild Potential. International Woman's Day means a few things to me. It sounds very cliche, but to me it's a day to celebrate the woman who have come before me, that have created a path for me and other woman of today, to get to where we are. To have the freedoms that I have grown up with and will continue to fight for. It's day to celebrate the women around me, and the world, who have loved me, supported me, have challenged me, who inspire me and who are making their own waves in this world. For me, International Woman's Day is also a day to reflect and appreciate that we still have such a long way to go. It's about fighting for true equality across all nations and cultures. We're not done until this is achieved. I'm giving one of my cards to my Mum. Mum's always deserve recognition and mine is no exception! She is a woman that has been a constant in my life, she definitely challenges me but is my greatest supporter. Another card is for a dear friend of mine who has recently purchased a one way ticket to the UK to embark on a lifetime of adventures. I'm extremely proud of her for stepping outside of her comfort zone and I am so excited to see what she gets up to. My final card is for another wonderful friend of mine, to let her know that I am thinking of her. My one piece of advice for woman around the world is: It's okay to be selfish! It's okay to put yourself first and to do what's best for you. You should not feel shame for saying 'Yes' or 'No' to the things that you are, or are not, excited and passionate about! You can find me on Facebook at Wild Potential and Instagram @Wild_Potential_. I'd love to connect with you. |
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NIC SMITH - South Australia
I have 5 beautiful children, a menagerie of animals and a passion to create abundance and freedom, whilst inspiring others to accomplish their dreams! Living a holistic lifestyle has a beautiful effect on the body, mind and soul, the more authentically you that you are the more your inner beauty will radiate. Your body is a temple that given the right tools, will look after itself, I would love to share those tools that I use with you, in the hope that you become beautifully balanced as one! Spending time doing things you love, being out in the fresh and air barefoot on the earth plus the use of doTERRA essential oils is just a snapshot of how we honour ourselves. I would love to help you experience this too. International Women's Day is a beautiful day of gratitude, honouring women from everywhere, as women we create, nurture and transform, yet in this day and age still so many struggle for their independence, I think this is sad, this day at least gives them a day to feel extra special, a day where it feels like it is all for them, a day where all women unite together. We need to empower women to to be the best that they can be and not be afraid to give anything a go! I have chosen to give my gift cards to my Mum Ann, She is just the most loving, amazing person, she gives everything and expects nothing in return, my friend Nadia, It doesn't matter how long between seeing each other, we just start off where we left off and Jo from the newsagent, she always smiles, she wears the funkiest headbands that light up my heart and even though it must be super uncomfortable to be on her sore leg all day, she still does it! I'd love all women to know that you attract what you are, so be the very best you can be everyday, because what if there was no tomorrow! |
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TAMMY TANSLEY - Western Australia
I help people sleep at night by giving them the tools to deal with workplace issues. This can be anything from dealing with a dysfunctional team through to enabling high performers fly higher. International Women's Day to me means an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of strength and amazingness that is the women of the past, today and importantly, the future. I haven’t yet chosen which women to give my three gift cards to but they will all be meaningful in some way. The piece of advice I'd like to share is: Just start. Wherever you are. Don’t wait until you’ve perfected it or it’s “finished”, just start now. Saving the world and the planet is inspiring, but so is the everyday work that every woman does. Celebrating what we all do – whatever and wherever that is. |
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SALLY MURPHY - Queensland
I’m a Corporate Escapee that has recently partnered with another inspirational woman to create our own Human Resource Consultancy Business on the Gold Coast – Purple Playground. But we are not your ordinary, boring, regimented HR team! We focus on assisting businesses that have a purpose beyond profit, to achieve their goals through their people. We partner up to help them understand the link between their People – Purpose – Performance – Profit. Our company name, Purple Playground derived out of the desire to make work fun! We believe if people enjoy what they do, have a say in how they do it, feel a sense of inclusiveness, understand how their efforts contribute and have the opportunity to make an impact…then this will show in their results. By combining the stability of ‘Blue’, and the energy of ‘Red’, we came up with PURPLE…which also represents diversity, ambition, creativity, dignity, peace, pride, independence and just a little bit of magic! For me, International Womens’ Day means recognising the amazing contribution that females bring to not only the workplace, but the family unit, the sporting field and the relationships we build in all aspects of our lives. I believe women in business should not have to act as if they don’t have a family and life outside of work; and women choosing to balance family and work commitments should not have to live up to unachievable standards in the home as if they didn’t have an outside job to consider. Society puts far too much pressure on women to be all things to all people, but more prevalent is women putting pressure on other women to ‘live the highlight reel’ and keep up with the Joneses. So if International Women’s Day helps just one of us realise that we are amazing and resilient creatures then it’s all been worth it. My first card will go to my business partner Marija Simonds who is always so driven and supportive, but sometimes feels she’s doing a less than perfect job at home/work depending upon the day…she needs to know she is appreciated and doing an amazing job. I have chosen to give my second card to my friend Mia Rudd who not only motivates me in the gym at 5am every morning, but is also a great role model for me with the challenges she experiences with living in a blended family. She’s my resilience mentor and she doesn’t even know it! The third card I have chosen to give to an acquaintance Manuela Whitford who is the founder of the not-for-profit ‘Friends with Dignity’ – a charity that supports those displaced by domestic violence. I have volunteered with them for a while now and I have nothing but admiration for the way Manuela has built this initiative from the ground up, found support in other amazing women and made a huge impact on so many lives within many communities. Whilst I haven’t seen her for a long time, she continues to motivate me from afar (without even knowing it) and makes we want to be a better person. My advice is to stop existing and start living! By this I mean – live your best life, the way that you want. We don’t have to act, behave or do things the same way as everybody else. Do things your way. Make your time on this planet count and leave a legacy (not stuff) behind when you go as no-one will remember you for that amazing spreadsheet you created at work or how tidy you kept the kitchen, they will remember how you made them feel through your interactions and experiences. |
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COURTNEY CASHELL - New Zealand
Kia Ora, I’m a solo mum to three beautiful babies living in a little town named Taihape. I am the sole owner of Little Moon Essential Oils and my goal with my business is to educate and help people with alternative healthcare. When I saw the opportunity to be involved in this International Women's Day project, I grabbed it straight away because I am totally all for empowering wāhine (woman) International Women's Day to me, means empowerment, it means wāhine (woman) recognising other wāhine (woman), it means acknowledgement of our wāhine (woman), it is a day where wāhine (woman) are able to show wāhinetoa (strength of a woman) I have chosen three women to give my gift cards to who have given me the strength and power to carry on every day - my mother Regina, my Sister Taylor - Dayne and my daughter - Noelle-Arorangi My one piece of inspirational advice is a quote from a woman who inspires woman everyday - “Who Run This World? GIRLS!!” |
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MELISSA NORFOLK - Melbourne, Victoria
I am a mum to two primary aged kids and a business owner. I run my own digital marketing agency Bit Loud Digital in Melbourne. We are celebrating 21 years in business this year and we connect businesses with more customers, get the phone ringing and broaden the reach of their brand through Digital Strategy, Search Engine Marketing, Web Design, Social Media and Email Marketing. I believe that International women's day is a day to remember and celebrate the achievements of women. I've decided to pass my six cards onto: Effie Gidakos – for her friendship and the work she does defending business and family law clients in stressful disputes. Jackie Mutimer – because she is a passionate, hardworking local business owner who inspires me with her determination and community mindedness. Mya Stevens – is great a masseur and a driven business owner. I have loved watching her business grow this last 12 months. Maureen Pollard – one of my longest clients more than 15 years ago. She’s been very successful in her business and a very loyal client and friend. Sharon Rae – one of my longest clients more than 15 years ago. She’s been very successful in her business and a very loyal client and friend. Marnie Daniel – my sister is one the most resilient, confident and strong people I know. She is a great osteopath, business owner and mum that I admire. I think we are all too hard on ourselves. Just do your best. Set goals so you know what you are striving for and work towards it. But congratulate yourself regularly for all the small achievements and steps along the way. I love helping women in business particularly to promote and grow what they are passionate about. My biggest challenge is finding balance between time for me, my family and my business. I am a member of BNI and Business Chicks and have found regular networking very helpful both in terms of referrals but also support and relationships with other business owners. |
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SHERI VEGAS - Brisbane
I feel that International Women's Day is so important because woman have struggled forever to be given equality in all sorts of ways. I watched my mum work harder than anyone around her to eventually become a CEO but it was a struggle. Her boss kept hiring men to be her boss as he struggled with having a female CEO but in the end they all made mistakes and finally mum was named CEO. I feel woman have to be actually better and work harder to get the same treatment that men get, and days like this bring attention to the fact there is still work to do to achieve equality. I am going to give my gift cards to men as I think it will make more impact, woman already know we still need equality. I am going to give one to my mothers husband who is a CEO as a reminder that woman still need a voice and the other two my uncles who both employ and work with woman. I'd like women around the world to hear this advice - Learn to push past the inertia of thinking you're not good enough, pretty enough, thin enough, smart enough or interesting enough and just reach for it and before you know it you will be there. I think it's super important to speak up for yourself in a calm and considered way and not be afraid to do so. I have found calm and considered has way more impact than angry and defensive. |
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LIVLEEN SINGH - Victoria I am working on the launch of my women's wear label. It is a brand working towards empowering women through the beauty of harmonising tradition and modernity. I am working on using indian fabrics and patterns on western silhouettes. I am currently in sampling stages, communicating with factories and such in order to get the perfect product, although I have received my initial samples which I will be using for lifestyle photo shoots. For me, i've been interested in International Women's Day as there are always more opportunities to hear from amazing women, and also discover up and coming artists, speakers, mentors etc who we might not hear about otherwise. However, since launching my business and really understanding the power of networking and learning from others in the field, it's become so much more important to connect with like minded women, learn from each other and help each other where we can in order to create that community spirit. For my three gift cards, one has to go to my mum! Although we might not see eye to eye on some things, I don't know any other woman who's been so strong and sacrificed so much for her family. Another would go to my best friend who is also now in the business world! We've sort of been through each stage of life around the same time and each time connected more because of it. I think she deserves all the love and I would give her a card with words of encouragement and powerful quotes in the hope that it helps her to never give up. This is going to sound cheesy but the last one is for me! Because these cards are so beautiful, I'll stick one up on my vision board, again including powerful quotes from other amazing women who I look up to in a professional sense. One thing I've found really helpful is to surround yourself with positive people, possibly those who are doing similar things to you although doesn't have to be in the same industry. Even if it's women running all sorts of business, everyone still goes through the same challenges and fears. And talking about it to someone who truly understands is the most helpful thing - even if it's just to vent for 5 minutes before getting on with life! So that's my advice, find those beautiful souls and keep them in your life because there's nothing more powerful than that. |
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SARA SING - Melbourne
What does; International Womens Day mean to me?! - For together, we are STRONGER ! I am the proud owner & designer of Gym Secrets Clothing- Austalia. Gym Secrets Clothing is an Athletic Clothing brand, sold here in Melbourne, Australia. Gym Secrets Clothing is affordable, unique in design & well supportive. Our brand focuses on the ability to empower women. 'It's all in the Clothing' is our slogan here at Gym Secrets. As our clothing has been designed to encourage, motivate & get each and every female moving their body! That may be a short walk, a light weighted session or maybe even a high intensity workout? Whatever it is, our Gym Secrets Clothing has been built to allow each & every person who wears it to feel comfortable, proud & capable to face that gym class, do that high intensity workout or even go for that walk/run. ‘It’s all in the Clothing' came from Sara’s eye & belief in what should be your main focus when working out! Rather than the people who may or may not be staring at you, whilst you’re getting hot & sweaty! I am a Registered Nurse in Melbourne Australia & have always had the desire to design my own clothing brand. My passion for health, fitness & clothing has led me to where I am today. |
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KATE KERNICK - New South Wales
It’s my mission and passion to support and empower women to learn how to trust and live by their innate feminine wisdom. I am an intuitive holistic counsellor and energy healer in private practice in North-west Sydney. The types of clients I see are empaths who have suffered trauma somewhere in their journey, whether it be childhood abuse and neglect, or have been in an abusive relationship. My energy healing abilities help me to see (and therefore help my clients see) the root cause of what’s holding them back so their journey to wellbeing is fast-tracked. No-one needs to spend years in therapy talking about and re-hashing the past. Quite unintentionally I ended my marriage on International Women’s Day 8 years ago. At the time I didn’t feel empowered, just like I was jumping off a cliff to save myself. I didn’t realise how low my self-esteem was, and just how controlled I had been, until I left. International Women’s Day to me means not men-bashing or feeling we need to overpower men, but instead finding a place where we can feel empowered to fulfil our purpose by stepping into our divine feminine wisdom. These means being connected – most importantly with ourselves, and then to other people who match your vibe. The 3 people who will receive my cards are:
A piece of inspirational advice is – everything you need is within. You may need help along the way and guidance and loving support to find it but when you have a deep sense of trust anchored into your feminine wisdom you are well on your way. |
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MANDY REEVE - Auckland, New Zealand
Long story short, a quarter-life crisis on a dancefloor in Florence over 10 years ago led me to the living the life of my dreams. It was one of those moments of clarity, where your soul yells out above the noise of societal expectation, and you realise what you truly want to do with your one precious life. In my case, this revelation saw me end a six-year relationship with my fiancé and move to the other side of the world to pursue a juicier existence, full of travel, adventure, and romance. In amongst all that good stuff, I realised the 9-5 wasn’t for me, so I hired a coach to help me work on what my professional future would look like. This is when I had my Double Eureka moment. 1. Coaching is an incredibly powerful tool. 2. I want to be that tool for other people. Learning about myself really helped me create a life I love. I am a Transformational Coach. I am passionate about helping women not have to wait until they hit rock bottom or a crisis until they make major changes in their lives. We all have the ability to thrive. I love helping women live more passionate and successful lives, on their own terms. I was born on the 8th March and always felt there was a reason why. I am feminist, storyteller and believe there is still a lot of work to do before we get true equality (equity). International Women’s Day provides a platform to continue the dialogue and a chance to explore topics that aren’t necessarily a part of everyday conversations. It helps me challenge my bias and unconscious bias. An opportunity to hear different perspectives. I have chosen to give my gift cards to: Briony McKenzie - Briony has been generous with her time and support of me from the moment we meet. Blows me away with what she does and what she has created in a short space of time in her coaching business and The Social Experiment. Her passion for what she does and for life shines everywhere. Pauli Sosa - Over the last year Pauli’s support, generosity, and belief in me even before I even truly believed what I was capable of. Her community she has created particularly with MUV talks of change makers is inspirational every time I attend and really has become a family. Penny Bolton - Reconnecting with Penny last year was one of my highlights. We were friends at high school. She still knows me better than most people. She is a strong woman who does things her way. True to who she is as a person. She helped me remember that part of myself. The part of me that has and always will do things my way and in my own time. Stepping past the fear and doing it anyway. Huge love for this beautiful woman. My advice is, if you are not happy with a part of your life, you owe it to yourself to explore the feeling. Are you living life from a place of other people’s expectations on you? If so, it is time to get clarity about what you truly want from life. Not your partner, parents, family or society. You and your true desires for your life!! |
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SHENOA GITTINS - Gold Coast
I am a 40yo mother of 1 full of life 3yo boy, and co-founder of several Gold Coast based businesses, within both the training (vocational education), and recruitment industries. I am lucky enough to have a wonderful team who enable me to juggle raising my son, building our businesses, and maintaining my sanity. International Women’s Day to me is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate all that we achieve as women. Women tend to down-play their achievements, doubt their ability and successes, and forget about taking time to give themselves a little pat on the back. This is a chance to do all of that for ourselves, and for all the amazing women around us achieving great things every day. I’ll be sending one of my cards to a girlfriend, Christie Baker, who has built her own real estate recruitment business, quietly on her own, to be a super successful and reputable company, all while living a laptop lifestyle, supporting her friends and family, and continuing to be one of the most beautiful people I know, inside and out. My second card will go to Maria Mesaric, an amazing lady who has achieved great success in education (as well as in other industries), and despite being incredibly busy, always has time to offer words of advice, guidance and support. My third card will go to Stacey Cranitch – Stacey is new to the business world, but has hit the ground running and is very quickly building her reputation as a social media coach, and one of the reasons I believe she has done so well so quickly, is her constant, willing engagement with business owners who need advice on their social media questions – I’d love to send her a message of encouragement to keep kicking goals. A piece of inspirational advice I’d like to share with women all over the world is: Just start – no matter how big your goals, do something each day that takes you a step closer. I started out in business at 30 years of age, and gradually built our main business to a business that turns over 7 figures a year, and turns people’s lives around through the empowerment of knowledge and employment. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not always easy, sometimes you’ll feel like giving in, but it’s worth the fight. Just a shout-out to all the women who are leading, guiding, and inspiring others to do the same. To the women who are breaking glass ceilings, proving people wrong, and showing the next generation that they can achieve whatever they set their hearts to. |
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ANGELA ROGERS - Queensland
I'm the founder of Global VA Solutions. I embarked on this business journey to be able to help people create more time and balance in their business and personal lives. Allowing busy business women and mothers to have more time with their family, not feel bad taking time out to work on their own personal development or just have a bit of extra time each week to enjoy life and do things they love knowing that their business or life is in good hands. To me, International Women's Day is all about Celebration, Inspiration and Reflection.....celebrating the countless incredible women that leave footprints on this world and fingerprints on our hearts, becoming more inspired and hopefully inspiring the younger women of today to follow a beautiful path in life and reflection on self and how we can all be better women. The three women I'm giving my gift cards to are: 1. My mother, the most amazing supportive woman I know and who has shaped the woman I am so proud to have become. She also gets the titles of best friend and travel buddy. 2. My beautiful sister in law, the most giving, thoughtful and caring woman to ever walk this earth. She honestly thinks about EVERYONE else about 80% of the time and takes only 20% for herself. The epitome of selflessness and someone I am proud to call my sister. 3. Simone Patterson, the founder of The Sanctuary, Women, Children & Pet Refuge and a woman truly deserving of sweet things. Giving her whole self and inspiring others to give back to a cause that is growing faster than it should be. As a business woman, one of my favourite quotes, from Michelle Obama is "Success isn't about how much money you make, it's about the difference you make in people's lives". And we should all strive for that, both in our personal and business lives and for those we personally know and those we don't. Make a difference to your family, your friends, your clients, your business network, the lady on the street who needs a helping hand, your neighbour. However big or small, always strive to make a positive difference. |
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GINA MCVICAR - Melbourne, Victoria
I operate a Retail shop in Williamstown, Melbourne Victoria, called Embrace, Life Love and Happiness. Our shop specifically sells Soaps, Diffusers, Body Lotions, Body Creams, Hand Creams and Candles. We love to sell beautiful products that are good for the soul, are of high quality, affordable and stylish. This year International Womens day has special significance as I am about to embark on an Immersion Leadership Trip to India with Business Chicks and The Hunger Project, with an aim to explore how women in India, and around the world can move towards empowerment, equality and overcoming hunger through education and self sufficiency. I believe that all women around the world are entitled to, and can create a meaningful life given the right environment , education and support. International Womens Day is an opportunity to create an increased awareness of what is possible for women through collective sharing and positivity. I have chosen to give my 3 cards to 3 women who maybe don't realise how much love, support and positivity they already give to others, all 3 have endured difficult times while standing strong for their family, and all 3 women work extremely hard at looking after everyone else before themselves .... 1. My Cousin - Sherylee 2. My Cousins partner - Ann-Marie 3. My Gorgeous friend Em My one piece of inspirational advice would be to learn how to be brutally honest with yourself deep inside your soul , and then to trust that instinct and be guided by your honesty within yourself, be authentic ! ... this doesn't come easy , you have to work at it! |
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GWEN SAMS - Victoria
I am 32 years old, have an amazing husband and two beautiful sons. I am lucky enough to be one of three girls and it's the support of my sisters I am the person I am today. Love Aunty Amy was launched in March 2017 to help awesome aunties find the best gifts for their favourite little people. I started the business after having my second child and realizing people without kids really just have no idea what to buy a baby or child! It was named after my sister Amy, the original favourite aunty, who died when she was 25 from a stroke. It has been a long ride since she died in 2010 but now I feel really lucky to create memories with Amy, even without her. International Women's Day is a chance to celebrate amazing women in our lives! The old, the young and everyone in between. I also think as a mum of two boys it's an important time to remind my boys about how special women are and to always respect them. I have chosen to give my gift cards to my sister Claire - without her, I wouldn't be who I am to today. My great aunty Anne - at 93 she is living on her own, driving, and officially in remission from non-hodgin lymphoma. She was the first female with a commercial pilots licence in Australia, up until a few years ago still performed playing violin with orchestras and has so many stories and finally my friend Lucia - we have been friends for 20 years but haven't lived in the same place for the last 19 of those! She has just become a mum for the first time and I know navigating this crazy new world of motherhood can be hard. Being a woman is truly a gift. We can bring life into this world, and although I have already had so many accomplishments and hope to have many more, having my sons has been the biggest mark I can make in this world. |
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KYLIE BISHOP - South Australia
I am a glass half full woman with a generous spirit and a sense of humour, who believes that anything is possible. An entrepreneurial problem solver and CEO, I am committed to enhancing the outcomes for people in business. From my own two companies, to the business women and SMEs I coach, and the five amazing children I raise, I relish opportunities to make a difference. Both of my current businesses solve problems, perceived or real, for clients who want to challenge the status quo. With a vision to unite progress in Australia with a sustainable environment, LBWco offers solutions to site contamination problems. Incredible U delves into the opportunities professional women and SMEs have to make themselves stronger and overcome some fears along the way. My specialist areas include finance and people management, business and risk analysis, strategic planning and governance, and I have worked in small, medium and international corporations within the engineering, environment and legal industries over my career of 25+ years. I have held a range of board and committee positions; have written curriculum for SACE; was the South Australian Telstra Business Woman of the year in 2012 and now judge those awards. International Women's Day is a chance to celebrate and cheer for the achievements and the resilience of all women. A chance to hope for a future for my daughters that is filled with joy and equality. I'm giving my gift cards to my daughters, Madison and Chloe – who will, in some shape or form, run this country one day, my Executive Assistant, Alicia – a single mother of three children who generously gives her time to nurture those around her and a mentoring client, Sam who has just sold her business – to remind her that the next chapter is now hers to write I'd like all women to know that even in the moments of self-doubt there will always be someone else silently cheering us on. You are enough! |
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HARRIET (RAPEE) KELLY - Brisbane I’m 35 yo Registered Nurse and Midwife in QLD known as Harriet (Thai name is Rapeewan). I have always been passionate about healthcare and making people’s lives a little brighter. Being an orphan in Thailand and born with a cleft palate and cleft lip, I didn’t have a good start to life. I was adopted to Australia, Adelaide in the 80’s and life has been nothing short of an adventure! Growing up being in and out of hospital, cranio facial operations and doctor appointments was a challenge however it was my “norm”. I was a “fighter” which was fuelled by the love, support and encouragement around me. Looking back on life I thank girlfriends and women in my life that accepted me the way I am, instilled in me that my scar on my face, speech impediment doesn’t make up my identity or devalue me or what success I could attain in life. I finished primary school, high school, a bachelor degree and post graduate study. I contribute to the community as a nurse and I strive everyday to bring out the best in patients and my colleagues. I’ve been dreaming about it for so long and I'm about to be living it! I’m in the process of developing a healthcare solution MobiCare to hopefully meet the needs of our community and healthcare professionals. So watch this space and be a part of the MobiCare Community. I am so excited! Deep down and quietly I say “Look at me” to the people years ago in the orphanage and in my school years that labelled me as “retarded”. IWD is a day where women can celebrate achievements and challenges in life. It’s a day where the focus is on women and how we contribute to society. IWD is also an opportunity to bring to light women’s issues such as pay gap, safety and security to the platform; social media and news items. IWD is a day to let our hair down and celebrate being a woman! I'm giving my gift cards to: - My mother as she is a wonderful example of a strong, resilient citadel for the family. Always providing guidance and her ears to listen to me. - Charlotte: a nursing friend I met in the outback when I was nursing rural remote. So grounded, easy to chat to and bounce ideas off. - Auntie Lesley, a cancer survivor and a woman full of hope, courage and love. Auntie Lesley is a visionary and always thinking forward. I want to share with women all over the world that no matter what you look like don’t allow that to make you feel inferior or not worthy of success and happiness. It’s your might, inner drive, passion and strong spirit that will get you to where you want to be in life, not looks. |
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KEELA MCBRIDE - Christchurch, New Zealand I specialise in eco-friendly menstrual products, period underwear, menstrual cups, washable pads and more. I love educating and empowering women world wide on more sustainable options for periods. Our range is expanding weekly into Eco home and health and well-being products. With the aim to become New Zealand's largest one stop eco shop for all your needs. International Women's Day means recognising and empowering the amazing women out there and acknowledging their strength, love and determination of all women from all walks of life. Together we are stronger!! I have chosen to give 2 of the cards to women in business that inspire me with their passion and dedication. The 3rd card is for my 11 year old daughter. She inspires me daily with her compassion towards others and our environment and her passion to create a more sustainable life. She has started a small business which she wants to educate and empower teens on the eco period products and other ecofriendly products. She is wanting to sell enough products this year through her small Envirogirl business so she can attend space camp in 2020. Have passion for what you do and never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with inspiring and loving people that believe in you. |
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YVETTE PAGET - Queensland I've created a parenting village via a blog and eventually a book. From practical advice to in-depth value discussions and even simple recipe ideas, my goal is to grow our community so that we can withstand anything that life throws our way. By joining me, my subscribers and I become bigger than the sum of each member and from our village collective they gain wisdom, strength, love, support and sometimes that much-needed sense of perspective that can prove ever-elusive when navigating life’s challenges on your own. International Women's Day is a reminder to celebrate women from all over the world. Our collective achievements in career, partnership, sisterhood and motherhood. The women I'm giving my cards to are: Hayley - For always believing in me. For slowing be down and giving me perspective. Katie - For reminding that I'm worth it. Mum - For raising me in the knowledge women can find a balance between career and motherhood. I want to share that you should always be authentic - especially to yourself! And also a reminder that it is equality that we seek, not superiority |
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LOREN BURTON - Queensland
I’m a plus size model with Bella Management and winner of the 2018 Cosmopolitan Magazine Curve Model Search, a self love and body confidence coach and founder of The Self Care School. With over 10 years experience in mental health I coach women in relationships to overcome their body insecurities, and show them exactly how to get their needs met. I teach them how to get clear on what’s holding them back from experiencing the love they desire, ditch fear and self sabotage and own their divine power so they can fill their own cups, and have amazing relationships with their partners again. International Women’s Day is a day to remind ourselves that we are stronger together. As women we tend to not be so great at reaching out for support, even if we’re starting to drown. To me, IWD is a reminder to all women to come together, support each other and remind each other that we are not alone. Being a woman is such an honour and our sisterhood is unstoppable. We are life givers, visionaries, leaders and servants. We are complex and powerful, especially when we support each other. When we stand together and commit to loving ourselves, we can change the world! I have chosen to give my three gift cards to: My mother in law because she is one of the most giving individuals I’ve ever met, but she is also so self aware and knows how to take care of herself without burning out. She shows me that’s it’s ok to be both fierce and compassionate - the embodiment of a complex woman! My good friend, Amelia for showing up in the world as her authentic self and inspiring so many women to do the same. My agent, Chelsea Bonner, founder of Bella Management, for giving me the opportunity to share my platform and bring my message of self love to the world. Her persistence in her effort to change the modelling industry has paved the way for me to model again, after 3 babies and a 10 year break, and for millions of diverse women to see themselves represented in the media. As women we tend to not be very good at reaching out for help, even when we’re drowning. We’re so busy being “good women”, wearing all the hats and meeting everyone’s needs that it’s easy to neglect our own needs. Recognise that reaching out for support is an act of power, not weakness. You’re so generous with giving your love to everyone around you, why not give some of that love to yourself? When you get better, everything gets better. Just imagine a day when you’re jumping out of bed, boundless energy, full of inspiration and LOVE! You have the power to think and feel how you want to. It’s all inside of you just waiting to be discovered! |
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STEPH MARSLEN - Perth, Western Australia
I am a chiropractor from Perth, Western Australia. I work in a family practice with my parents, looking after everyone from newborns to grandparents! I have completed a post-graduate Diplomate in Chiropractic Paediatrics, and love looking after pregnant women, babies and children. The area I am most passionate about is helping highly stressed women regain calm and clarity within their life. Chiropractic care is a big part of this – my care includes rebalancing the body and calming the nervous system, as well as advice on lifestyle tweaks to help people achieve lasting change. To expand the information I offer to women suffering from stress I started my Instagram account @theholisticreset, where I post tips and tricks on stress and how to calm the body and mind. I want to expand this to a website and talks in the future, developing it as a resource for both my patients and those who aren’t able to come into my practice for care. For me International Women’s Day is a day to recognise and celebrate how far we have come with women’s rights in a relatively short time, whilst acknowledging how far we have to go. It is a day to celebrate what it means to be a woman, in all our variations! It is also a day to recognise the women in our life who have helped, guided and mentored us, looked after us, gifted us their wisdom, and passed their knowledge down the generations. I've chosen to give my gift cards to:
The best thing you can ever be is yourself. There is only one of you, and you bring your own gifts and talents into the world in your own unique way. Chase your dreams, ignore the naysayers and stay true to yourself. In society, both men and women, we really show our strength when we when we are celebrating each other, lifting each other up and supporting each other. This is something I love about this project: celebrating and supporting so many women through a simple act of kindness, sending a beautiful unexpected gift. |
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JORDAN CORRY - United Kingdom
I'm the founder of the Fit Club Society; an online all-female community that focuses on empowering and educating women on their journey to a healthier and fitter life. Our plans and group programmes focus on mental wellbeing, body positivity, self-love, and confidence building. Our mission is to help women find their own balance between their fitness goals and their everyday life. International women's day is such an important day for women. It's a day where we get a chance to really celebrate the accomplishments of women in business, life, and in the progression of women's rights. There's nothing more inspirational than reading the stories of determined, powerful women who didn't let anything stop them when chasing their goals. Women who won't let gender stereotypes hold them back! The first card is for my grandmother; she isn't on social media but she is one of the strongest women I've ever met. She grew up in a time where women had to fight for their rights. She is strong-minded and has a stubbornness that is enviable. She never gave up and still to this day inspires me to be strong, independent, and to take no sh-- ! The second card I'd like to give to give to the creators of the Boss Babe society. I cannot begin to explain how much these ladies inspire and motivate me on a daily basis and have pushed me to pursue my business even when my confidence was low. The third card i'd like to give to the creator of the Blog and Biz Babes community. Yet again, another woman who has inspired me by creating a tight knit community of determined and ambitious women who always have each other's back. Never give up on your dreams. It will take time, effort, and many set-backs- but if you pursue your dreams with passion and determined action, you will make it. You may have to change your approach, but never change your end goal! I'm so grateful to be involved in this project to empower women on international women's day. Thank you! |
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MARIANNE GOLDMAN - Queensland
I am the founder of a new Australian owned and made Natural Deodorant BARE+Free. We think you should choose your deodorant like you choose your skin care! You wouldn't use just any old cleanser or moisturiser, so why use a chemical & aluminimum filled deodorant? BARE+FREE deodorant has been carefully formulated using only natural ingredients to not only mask odours and keep you fresh but to also nourish, protect and moisturise your underarms leaving them looking, feeling and smelling their best! We are super excited to be launching very soon and invite you join the B+F Tribe where you will not only gain access to pre-launch specials and a special free gift with purchase but to hear more about converting to a natural deodorant and other health and wellness tips. International Women's Day to me is about celebrating the great achievements both big and small, supporting the dreams and desires to achieve goals and to encouraging all women, of all ages, in all walks of life to go for it. #BalanceforBetter Two of my cards will be given to my near 15 & 18 year old daughters to inspire them to be the best they can be and that they can achieve anything they want as long as their heart is in it. The third card I will be writing to myself to remind me that "I can do it" "Stop doubting yourself" "Stop being fearful of the unknown" and "You've got this". Like most women in business, the emotional roller coaster is often worse than the business itself. Using this card as a daily reminder will help to push the feelings aside and to focus on the good and positive to move forward. Follow your dreams, listen to your heart and don't be afraid. |
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KIRSTEN SMART - New Zealand I live in Kaiapoi, North Canterbury with my amazingly supportive partner, Rob (who hasn’t once complained about not being able to use our dining table anymore!) and our two gorgeous children Miryn and Corban. To add to the chaos of raising a young family and running my own business, I am also a 111 call dispatcher and ambulance officer for St John.The Jewellery Bar was born out of my lifelong love of fashion and the desire to run my own businesss. My late mother was a watercolourist and avid crafter, so designing and creating is in my blood. I’m really passionate about colour and texture and love how a bold piece of jewellery can elevate even the simplest outfit; I live in jeans and a tee, paired with a piece of statement jewellery! In my spare time I enjoy reading (biographies, fashion and motivational books are my faves) catching up with friends and holidays with my family. I love being outdoors with my kids, and a visit to the Botanical Gardens to feed the ducks and play is always a special day out. I am also thankful for the love and support of my awesome family and friends, without whom The Jewellery Bar would still be a dream. I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by an amazing group of women who have joined me on this journey and given their time (including countless hours of babysitting!) and expertise to help me get to where I am now (some of these super women even agreed to be my models!). Welcome to The Jewellery Bar, I hope you love my jewellery as much as I do - Kirsten xx International women’s day means celebrating how far women have come in the world and the roles we now hold and the businesses we run. So many of us are mums and also working or running a business. I will give my three beautiful cards to 3 other girl bosses out there empowering women to live their best lives. My best piece of advice is - prioritise self love and self care because if you aren’t looking after yourself it’s very hard to be there for anyone else. |
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JANINE PHILLIPS - Melbourne
HI, I’m Miss Meaningful. I’m a passionate storyteller sharing the good news about all things meaningful! I believe that one devoted person can initiate change - imagine what we can do together. I blog about the good in business, products and places. I believe International Women's Day is a time to support our female-kindred-spirits and find ways to make a meaningful difference to those in need. I’ll give one card to a friend, one card to a family member and one card to a stranger with a message of unity and love. Together we are stronger! Never, ever, ever give up. In the words of Audrey Hepburn, nothing is impossible. The word itself says I’M POSSIBLE. Thank you for doing this wonderful project Sophia! xo |
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NICOLA SMITH - Victoria
I'm a town planner, based in Melbourne with offices in Hobart and Perth. I have a penchant for volunteering my spare time (what spare time I hear my friends say!) to boards and committees which progress discussions in the built form. I moved across from Perth in 2010 and was unsure what my future held – so I decided to take a massive leap of faith and start Niche Planning Studio. That was seven years ago and I haven’t looked back!!! We now have 10+ staff and are actively involved in projects across Australia in both apartments/townhouses and land development. I love my job and I love my team – life is pretty amazing right now!!! #lovemyniche I always reflect upon International Womens Day as a day to celebrate the successes of women, but also to celebrate the men who have supported them. I have been lucky to work in a profession with a strong female representation where I receive equal pay and equal treatment amongst my peers – today reminds me to be grateful for that. I'm giving my three gift cards to:
Never give up. I remember an old comic that my dad printed out for me and coloured up – and it showed a pelican eating a frog, but the frog wasn’t prepared to be swallowed and he was trying his best to strangle the pelican – always made me laugh as a little girl – but I understand what he was trying to convey. Keep going – never give up – chase your dreams – nothing is impossible! Don’t forget to get a bit of work life balance! I pay for my staff to do weekly fitness classes, they get a personal course allowance for yoga or oil painting or whatever they need to escape the 9-5, and they get a professional allowance so they continue to challenge themselves and be the best people and town planners they can be! |
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ANGELA & RENEE - Queensland
La’ Frock Boutique and La’ Frock the Label was founded in 2018 by Angela and Renee and our inspiration draws from our beautiful beaches of Australia (our home). All garments are designed inhouse and hand selected by Angela and Renee for our clients to love and to feel exclusive, as no item is exactly the same, each is beautiful in its own way, just like the women who wear them. La’ Frock Boutique is home to all LFTL and also hand selected pieces from other designers to help our women style their LFTL pieces in different ways. Our vision is to empower women. To create that special item that makes a woman feel absolutely amazing. We want to help women be confident in who they are and what they wear. International women’s day to us, means to celebrate every woman for who they are. Each individual, unique woman. To let us celebrate who we are individually and together as nobody else is us and that is our power. The power of woman and women all around the world. Nobody is you, and that is your POWER. |
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POONAM SHETH - West Bengal, India
I was born in India but have lived the later part of my life (11 years) in Melbourne. I was a single mom at the very tender age of 18 and am a proud parent of a 20 year old son. I completed my Masters in Financial Risk Management from Monash University and pursued my career in Insurance Services Industry for about 6 years. Due to family circumstances I decided to fly back to my home country and live by their side. Whilst staying here I started to travel within the state of West Bengal ( India) to get to know and understand the rural side of many living here. Daroonjinish.com is a very dear project, to promote the beauty and artworks created by very simple and humble artisans of West Bengal state, India. Most of these artisans are women, and they support themselves and their families by selling these artworks. Over decades, these artworks have reached various corners of the world due to its immaculate presentation and work. These artisans have very little or no such modern methods of performing their work. The only methods they practice is through giving their heart and soul to each and every piece of product with immense attention and care, and using handcrafted organic materials. Our mission is to bring these beautiful arts and artist to a wider global audience. All our products are handmade, handcrafted, eco-friendly, made from vegetable colours, chemical free, against animal cruelty and promoting the rural talents to a global audience. Our products include beautlifully crafted basketry, scroll based paintings known as Patachittra art, bags and folders, mats and more . International Women's Day is a mark, where it salutes those beautiful ladies and girls around the world - who have been through the tides of pain, suffering, rejections, challenges and hard work ; and have made it through with their dreams and goals. It is a day that reminds the coming generation of ladies and women and of the courage , determination and fearlessness they do possess to carry on being happy and spreading the love. The first card is for my Biological Mother: Mrs Radhika Sheth. It is to thank her endlessly for dedicating every second of her life until now to raise not just me but also help raise my child. Coming from a very orthodox Indian Cultural Society, living my dream as a proud single mom looked very bleak 20 yrs ago. Today I can say it with confidence that its beautiful and bold to a single mother. I love you mum. The second card is for my Aussie Mother : Judith Penak (Leading Melbourne Fashion Designer) I met Judith through our Buddhist Society (Sokka Gakkai International) in Melbourne. From the time I met her and until now, she has dutifully with all her heart fulfilled the role of a mum for me whilst my stint in Melbourne. Living alone in a different country and without a family, life can get very lonely and scattered. It was her constant selfless care, love and motivation that kept me going with strength and courage. She always made sure that I never lost my smile and happiness. I love you my Aussie Mum! The third card is for all those ladies who have battled the waves of rejection, defamation, pain and suffering and have made it to a stage where they are role models and support to many others like myself. My advice is: It's just one life. Let's create a mark for ourselves, which leaves behind a sense of freedom and belongingness for every beautiful lady and girl out there. Thank you Sophia. for creating such a beautiful global platform for women to share their inspiration! |
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TANYA SCHIFFNER - Melbourne
I’m a mum of two small kids, girl 5 and boy 3, living in Bayside Melbourne. Our cultural background is German though. I came with my husband from Munich to Melbourne about 10 years ago and we just love the culture, people, country and the Australian way of living. Professionally I have over 10+ years international consulting experience focusing on the design, development and delivery of change management initiatives on large scale IT transformation projects. Last year my friend and I who is also German decided to start our own little side hustle where we designed and developed ‘Friendship Books’ for kids aged 4 – 10 years old. We are a local business and proud of making our books in Melbourne with a huge amount of love and passion. The purpose of friendship books is to connect kids outside the digital world, fostering positive conversations amongst each other, with teachers and their families and getting creative. The books are for sharing and in the end the owner has a unique, personalised keepsake book with precious childhood memories to enjoy for years to come. We believe that in the digital age where social media and virtual friends seem to dominate our spare time, it is important to share face to face conversations, take paper and pen to draw, write and scribble freely with your hands, to have kids share laughs amongst each other as well as with their parents and teachers. We hope that our books will support children in building healthy and strong relationships with their peers and to bring joy and fun for them to share and cherish. International Women's Day is the day to acknowledge how far women have come in society, challenges that have been overcome and keeping in mind the path that still lies in front of us to fight for true gender equality. A day on which we should network and inspire each other by sharing our stories and dreams. These cards will stay in my family. One for my grandmother, the strongest woman in our family, a role model and inspiration. She has seen and lived through so much and always stays strong and graceful on both feet. One for my mum for being my biggest supporter, believer and advocate. She has always my back and a shoulder to cry on when needed. And the last one for my daughter to let her know what a wonderful, young person she is, that there are no limits except the ones she puts on herself and that she can achieve anything in life if she wants to and believes in herself and her capabilities. She will always have my back, my support and my love. Be honest to yourself so that you can grow and work on yourself to become the best version you can be. But don’t beat yourself up over negative experiences in your life that you cannot change anymore. Analyse them, draw your conclusions and lessons learned and move on knowing that you are stronger because of the past and believe in yourself and that you are going to rock the present. |
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JESS HODGE - New South Wales
I am married with an 18 month old son who keeps me on my toes! I love being a Mum and want to enrich my son with life lessons for caring for people and the environment. I own and operate a business called Resourceful Living. My aim is to provide gift hampers to the people of Australia to help them getting started in living a more sustainable lifestyle. Eco Friendly has become a buzz word and my aim is to make people feel empowered by changing small aspects of their life rather than thinking they have to change everything in 1 day. I work with people to create healthy habits in the sustainable space and hope through this they spread the word by purchasing gift hampers for the friends and family. Women have long been seen as caregivers for the home while men went to work. Celebrating International Women's Day means so much me to make sure we continue to honour the achievements of women both near and far. We join together to show our commitment to the next generation of girls to to aim high and achieve their ambitions, goals and dreams. As women we will continue to strive towards equality and striving for leadership roles. Growing up in a developed nation, I had the opportunity to go to school and university, however, many girls and women do not have that option and part of International Women's Day is to continue to bring awareness to the ongoing struggle many women face around the world. I have chosen to give my gift cards to the following women: My Mum, Helen - Since the moment I was born she told me to believe in my ambitions and dreams and strive for what I wanted to do. I was encouraged to never let self-doubt get in the way of me achieving what I wanted. Mum showed me that having time off to care for the family, did not mean that your career had ended, that at any stage of life you can head straight back into the workforce and work your way up. It is paramount to believe in yourself and surround yourself with people that lift you up. My Mum is an amazing role model and I am so lucky to have her in my life. My Aunty Louise has always been there to offer kind words and support throughout my life. Always enriching my mind with new and wonderful ideas! She encourages me when I think things are not possible and continues to always be a listening ear even though she lives on the other side of the world. Louise showed me that whatever you put your mind so you can achieve your goals. Louise studied nursing in Australia and followed her dreams of medicine and research to new heights. She now lives and work in America in a lab researching immunology with many works published. My Grandmother Jan - Grandmothers are very special people and I have been extremely lucky to have such a close relationship with mine. From a young age, I remember her telling me to follow my dreams and that I can do anything I put my mind too. She was an Olympic swimmer in the 1950s and understands the need for training and hard work to succeed at your dreams. In 2000 she got to carry the Olympic Torch and it was so very special to watch her in her element. She then went on to raise my Mum and Aunty Louise who continue to motivate me every day. For my grandmother, she always did what she wanted and never took to social norms, having her own car in the 1960s as well as being a working mother. My grandmother continues to inspire me well into her 80's and I hope I have a few of her genes running through my body. The quote I live by everyday is - The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. By Helen Keller Never let anyone tell you that you are not good enough. Strive to reach your ambitions and dreams and surround yourself with people who believe in you. Life is so much more when you join together, do not try and do it alone! |
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JEN HARWOOD - New South Wales
I founded a hair brush business that’s debunking the hairbrush industry. It's called happy hair brush. We are empowering women to not be confused about hair brushes and to have one that works and stop buying brushes that promise everything and don't deliver. I'm an international speaker, published author and have been in business for the last 20 years. International Women's Day means a celebration of being a women. Celebrating everything we are, everything we have come from and celebrating the future we are moving into. I am busy, running my business, being a mother, living my life and I love that for just one day, I give thanks and get inspired and celebrate being a women with other women. Sometimes I'm on stage doing the inspiring and other times I'm in the audience hearing stories, being touch moved and inspired about others experiences, challenges, triumphs and life stories. I love it. I’m giving my gift cards to: 1. My sister Kate, because she is the one woman (other than my mum and grandma) that has been with me my whole life. I love her dearly and am so grateful for her support and encouragement in life. 2. My grandmother Polly, because she is 92 and one of my BFFs. Yes, we laughed the other day that we are BFFs and its magical. We know each other so very well and I am grateful for her wisdom, insight, age, knowing and love. I am stronger for her strength as a mother and a woman in the world. Polly stepped closer into my life after my mother Cath died from a long fight with cancer. Polly and I have been there for each other dealing with mum’s death and with my little baby girl coming into our lives at the time of mums death, we have become an amazing support unit for each other in so many ways. Picture attached. 3. My friend Ruth. When you have a new idea for something, you should only tell people that have fully got your back. My friend Ruth had my back from the beginning and has encouraged me to ‘go for it’ and also navigate the complexities of dealing with difficult people in my life, especially my ex-husband! Ruth has come to big events with me and our kids have bonded with each other too. She is now a trusted friend of my family and I am very grateful for her friendship and support. My inspirational quote is one of mine actually…. No-one ever becomes great and stays great all by themselves! That's a theme in my book and a principle I live by every day. I’ve actually bought 9 cards as there are more people to thank and acknowledge than just three. We dont become great alone and we done stay great by ourselves either. We live in dynamic web of connections and relationships that must be nurtured and tended like a garden. Lots of love to you, the readers and people involved in this project. |
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SANYA MINOCHA - Melbourne
I am a Transformative Coach and the founder of Kenshō Wellness. After experiencing chronic pain from a tailbone injury, I have spent the last four years empowering, and truly healing, myself. I have developed a holistic approach to achieving wellness and success in life by treating Body, Mind and Spirit as one. I feel inspired to help others restore balance, and formed Kenshō to address a major problem in the world: The disconnection of Body, Mind and Spirit. Through methods such as Life Coaching, Ayurveda and NLP, clients are guided on a journey towards health and well-being. For me, International Women's Day is a day for us to honour our femininity and the wider feminine consciousness, which includes ALL females of ALL colour and ALL shapes and sizes. Over 6,000 years ago, we faced the rise of patriarchy and matriarchy and the world has been out of balance ever since. International Women's day is a day of celebration so we can honour how far we've come. It's also a day of acknowledgement and of honesty about the ways in which we are yet to rise and step into our power as women. I've chosen to give my three gift cards to three of the most powerful women I know: 1. My mother, Lalita: She's taught me what it means to be a female in this world, and has passed down her feminine wisdom through her womb. I want to take this day to honour her and her mother for existing at a time where the feminine was suppressed and the masculine was solely leading the pack. 2. My soul mate, Jumana: As we navigate through our adult lives as females, together we're understanding what it means to be powerful entrepreneurs and partners to our loved ones, whilst retaining our sense of selves. We learn from each other and ALWAYS support one another no matter what wounds arise. We're both at different stages of life, holding each others hands and safely guiding one another towards the next step. 3. My sister, Christine: She's been at each of my pillars of transformation and healing, silently guiding me through the terrain of life. Her intuitive sense and free spirit has sparked my own sensual spirit and causes me to step into my power everyday. Our sisterhood is a force and when we come together, we feel the expansion of energy radiating outwards! Goddess, you have within you an innate wisdom that lives deep within your heart. Let your intuition guide you, let your compassion lead you in life, and may you walk with a knowing that your feminine divinity will be recognised and respected, as long as you recognise it in yourself first. Go, look into the mirror, she who stands in front of you is a force to be reckoned with. In her all authentic glory, messy hair, stretch marks, freckles, and wrinkles, she represents beauty and divinity. You are powerful and magical, and when you share some of this magic with the world, you are doing yourself and those around you an honour. You, are a gift. On this day as we celebrate women all over the world, I invite you to ACT as the force of fire and love that you are, and encourage those special women around you to do the same. It would be my pleasure to offer all the female readers of this blog an exclusive International Women's Day gift. All you have to do is send me an email - [email protected] and list ONE (or two!) qualities you love about yourself in the subject line and I'll send you your FREE gift! |
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LISA BENTLEY - Victoria
I’m based in Melbourne, Australia and I’m a quirky individual who never does anything in the normal way!! It’s cool to be unique right?! After having undergone major surgery in 2015, it opened my eyes even more so to chasing my dreams. I delved deep into my spiritual quest and followed what my heart was telling me. I now run my own business as a Spiritual Coach. Through Tarot and Reiki I aim to connect you to your inner guide to help you attain your goals and dreams. To me International Woman’s day is all about owing who you are as an individual and as a collective. It is supporting other woman all over the world and lifting us all up high so that we can all achieve what we want from life. It’s about creating a universal energy to create amazing things alone and together. When we believe in ourselves, we believe in others, when we love ourselves, we are open to loving others. If we embrace this it sends out a ripple effect that will touch the souls of many. Who I've chosen to give my gift cards to: first is my Mum...She supports me, believes in me and has made me the person I am today. She has shown me how to be strong, capable and loving. I’d be lost without her. Second is my Sister....She pushes me to achieve my absolute best. She makes me answer the tough questions and has taught me to stand up for myself. She supports me and has always been by my side no matter what. My third card is going to a beautiful soul who I look up to and admire. This woman achieves anything that she sets her sights on. She has taught me to never give up, makes me think outside the square and has sent me on a spiritual journey that I will be forever grateful for. OWN who you are, what you do and how you do it. Once you create this ownership it provides you with so much power within yourself that it filters into other aspects of your life. You have to believe in yourself if you want to go anywhere in life, attract the right people and create a life worth living. You are beautiful, strong and inspirational. Own it all, embrace every inch of who you are and what you have to offer the world. You are one of a kind. Fill your life with so much sunshine that when a stormy day rolls in you won’t even blink. Embrace and live life to the absolute fullest. Life is meant to be lived and you are in this world for a reason. Love yourself and love each other, whole heartedly. |
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AMANDA EWBANK - South Australia
I'm the owner of Pebble & Palm Interiors and lover of beautiful things. I have had an eclectic mix of roles over time, after studying Applied Science at Uni, I headed to the National Parks of the Northern Territory, I have also headed a large IT and Project function for Bendigo and Adelaide Bank in Victoria, and been the General Manger of HR and Marketing at Rural Bank, but now ... I am doing what I always dreamed of doing and that’s homewares! In December 2018 I opened the doors to my own homewares and interior styling business in Adelaide, I love it! I have also been able to keep my toe in the corporate world by doing 3 days a week as a Change Manager at a start up - Tic Toc Home Loans, a dynamic Fin Tech, which is also really exciting. You could say I am not happy unless I am being challenged, and busy ... really busy! IWD means celebrating the contribution women make in the world, celebrating the diversity of thought women bring to the table, celebrating the different life experiences and therefore life lessons women have and gives us an opportunity to continue to challenge organisations across the world for equal rights, equal pay and empower women everywhere to stand up for what they believe in. I have chosen to give my gift cards to: My Sister : She is as inspiring as they come, but at the moment needs to some love, after having multiple brain aneurisms a few years ago she now has brain tumours, it hasn’t got her down, she is a passionate teacher and her students love her. The second card will go to a dear friend who has helped me by strengthens my belief in myself and the last one I'm giving to a stranger I don’t know yet but I will find her and hopefully pass on some words of encouragement that will help her reach her potential. Never let others define you. You can absolutely do anything, and I mean anything you want to do. Don’t let anyone or anything tell you that you cant, you are stronger than you think. |
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JODIE HOOPER - Victoria
I am 47 year old wife and mother of a wonderful son. I am an entrepreneur and cancer advocate. I have developed an app called 'Wudzy' to raise money for cancer patients who need assistance paying for their treatment and living expenses that continue to mount up when a patient is going through treatment. The app will be ready to launch in March 2019. You can find out more about the Wudzy app and my fundraising initiatives below! I also work in the Holistic Cancer Treatment field and am working with a great team to develop the world’s leading Holistic Cancer Treatment Centre. We have already created a fabulous cancer ward but more needs to be done to add some key holistic elements. It is my goal to build more of these wonderful treatment centres and help people who may not be able to afford this treatment - or treatment elsewhere - get the care they so desperately need in hopes that they can live happy, healthy, long and fulfilled lives. International Women's Day is a great opportunity to celebrate, support and empower women. It was not that long ago in Western cultures the women couldn’t vote, or were restricted in many ways form living to their full potential and were treated like second class citizens - and in many places around the world this still exists. This is an opportunity to bring awareness and assistance to those that still have a long way to go and to educate people on what still needs to change. At the same time we can celebrate the great feats that women have achieved. I'm giving my gift cards to: Chicks for Charity - This is a group of kind, generous and inspirational women who over the last 10 years have raised around one million dollars for people in need.Whether it be financial assistance, organising food and clothing, cleaning the house or just emotional support in times of trouble, they have been a godsend to many - including a family whose home burned down, to a single mother needing support to help look after a terminally ill child - and so many more. More often than not, they are called on to help families who have been affected by cancer. They swiftly swing into action and help pay for treatment, medical bills, householdexpenses or even a holiday for the family so they can spend qualitytime with their loved ones. They also provide home cooked meals, fresh groceries and a shoulder to cry on. Whatever is needed, they are only too happy, ready, willing and able to help. Importantly the money they raise goes directly to those who need it. They are just wonderful women who do so much for others and ask nothing in return. I love them and appreciate what they do. They recently swung into action to help me with a charity event that raised $20,000 for cancer patients - they were amazing and I couldn’t have done it without them.www.chicksforcharity.com.au Narelle Williams-Wedding Planner Extraordinaire - Global Weddings- Narelle has worked hard from a young age to be extraordinary at what she does. She has vision and lets nothing stand in her way. Challenging people and circumstances may pop up but she doesn’t let that stop her from achieving her goals. She believes in herself and her abilities and through hard work and initiative she gets the job done with great attention to details and with results of the highest quality. She is very supportive of me and my ambitions and has helped me enormously with my recent event - helping me plan and co-ordinate the whole event. It's important to have like minded supportive people around you that believe in you and will help you achieve your dreams and Narelle is that for me. I love and appreciate her enormously. Sue Barron-Health Advocate and Glutathione Expert - Sue is a hard working, fun loving woman who is so full of energy and passion that she is a joy to be around. She is always helping others and doing amazing things travelling the world and all with a big smile on her face. She recently hiked to Everest Base Camp and in a group of 8 men and 2 women she was one of only 4 and the only woman that made the final stretch of the trip. She is always there to lend a hand and step up to help anyone who needs it. I certainly appreciate Sue for all she does for me and others. Do what you feel in your gut is right and stand by your convictions - don’t be afraid to speak up and be heard - your opinions are valid and worthy. The Dalai Lama said - "The world will be saved by the Western Woman” & Margaret Mead said - "Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world for indeed that’s all who ever have." I agree and believe that strong & caring western women can and will bring about great change in the world. It is the qualities that women share that will ensure that what is right and needs to be done will be and women will lead the way. Let's support and empower each other as we bring about these much needed changes. |
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TANYA DEALL - New South Wales
I’m a wife and mother of two gorgeous kids 7 and 9. I have a background in Information Technology and business analytics but have always loved being creative. I have been searching for a way to make a difference to people’s lives whilst using my analytical and creative skills – and so Yours In Chalk was born! We hand make chalk shapes for little hands to help create joyful and creative moments between adults and kids. International Women’s Day is about celebrating the wonderful women in the world and the unique qualities that women bring. Women are passionate, loving, fiery and resilient and we can really do anything we put our minds to! I'm giving gift cards to:
Women are expected to do so many things and I think we put this expectation on ourselves too. So my piece of advice is don’t be afraid to ask for help! You will be better for it and so will your kids and partner. It definitely does take a village to raise a child and to keep a family happy so don’t be afraid to ASK! Please be kind and teach your kids kindness for a better world. |
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STACEY KORFIATIS - Victoria
I am a visual artist who makes paintings with a focus on body positivity and inclusiveness. My hyper-realistic nudes discuss the perceptions, expectations and dis/empowerment of women. Incorporating deep, crate-like frames, my "Enclosed" and "Threshold" series critique both the literal and figurative boxing-in of women. In a society so used to seeing women as sex objects, my work considers this commodification of women in advertising. By utilising unconventional framing techniques, my paintings break down accepted power structures relating to women; bringing autonomy to the subject within the traditional canvas-frame archetype while reflecting on women's roles in society at large. As the vessels that house human consciousness, our bodies map the course of our lives. From birth, the scars, wrinkles and freckles we collect tell our individual stories; tracking the growth and change of each unique experience. Through my new work, I capture moments that communicate the personalities of models of all shapes, sizes, ages and ethnicities. While critiquing the unattainable Photoshopped and filtered beauty standards of advertising, these paintings join the dialogue around inclusion, equality, representation and accessibility by revealing the strength and beauty of each subject, whatever their appearance. I also create jewellery out of metal and glass, incorporating mechanisms that allow transformation, movement and manipulation. Refusing to accept the notion of play as only for children, I make jewellery that is not just to be admired, but invites tactile engagement with components that can change position or use motion to create intrigue and encourage curiosity and exploration. To me, International women's day is a yearly opportunity to check the progress of women-specific issues and in particular to recognise the achievements of women, both individual and collectively. It is also a chance to come together to consider issues that require more attention, and pool resources in order to affect change. My gift cards will be given to my Grandmother, to brighten her day during a period of ill health, my intern, to thank her for assisting me with tasks that had become overwhelming, and my gallerist, for her enthusiasm and support over the years which has sustained my practice. My advice to women would be to trust in ourselves and our inner strength. Don't allow anyone to question whether you belong where you strive to be. Women are the mother's of humanity, we can do or be anything we want to be. |
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ROSEMARY DUGAN - Perth, Western Australia
There is nothing more empowering than being comfortable in your own body. Being at ease with how you look, feel and think is true freedom in a judgemental world where ideal expectations of body image are fake, soul crushing and misguided. Synchronised Body Solutions is an inspirational business started by me - Rosemary Anne Dugan; to tackle true fitness and wellbeing from the inside out. I have helped clients over 18 years in the fitness industry to have a wholesome and sustainable approach to losing weight, feeling better in their mind, body and spirit. As Australia’s leading Food Addiction / Weight Loss and Mindset Coach my goal is to educate, support and empower everyone I work with! I do this through customised programs; online EBooks; through ongoing support; on social media; Skype or 1:1 personal coaching; through workshops and online programs. With a long list of qualifications over 20 years of study, experience and working in the Health, Fitness & Education industries, I have the knowledge and know how to equip you with lifelong tools to becoming a slimmer, healthier, energetic and empowered version of yourself. My personal experiences have seen me go through the gamut of yoyo dieting, weight loss battles, low self-esteem and negative body image… which finally pushed me into the direction of becoming an Accredited Health & Fitness Professional. This led to study in neurology and Neuro Linguistic Programming helping me gain certification as an NLP coach, Master Practitioner and Trainer. NLP is about changing your neurological pathways to change negative behaviours and habits that may be getting in your way of being successful in any of your undertakings. Also a huge eye opener in why we have weight loss issues. I focus on decreasing stress, initiating self-acceptance, building self- awareness, removing emotional pain, and providing you with strategies and processes to take control of your life. You learn how to eat healthy whilst changing your relationship with food into a positive one. I help you overcome feelings of guilt, and cease living up to unrealistic expectations and opinions of what is acceptable. I help you connect to who you are as an individual – a person of authenticity, substance and worth. I bring out your confident, radiant and self- assured persona to change your life, your circumstances and your future. This is the backbone of Synchronised Body Solutions. My goal is to help women 30 years of age and over to take back their power and live the lives they deserve. International Womens Day for me is a pivotal day where women can finally be celebrated for their substance, their intelligence, their contributions to community/society and the world. Women have been at the centre of many important achievements over the centuries but not necessarily been given the recognition they deserve for it. This day will now allow for the acknowledgement and accolades they deserve. I'm giving my three gift cards to: My daughter: Because she is worth more than she will ever know. Although she continually sees only her flaws; I see only an intelligent, quick witted, beautiful human being who is extremely considerate of others. My best friend: Because her simple approach to everything in life inspires me. She helps me understand that little things do matter. She is single and works at 3 different jobs, but she is genuinely happy for what she has and wouldn’t change a thing. She also has the biggest heart ever. My Mother: My mother passed away about 32 years ago, but she passed on her strength, her nurturing gifts, her humour, her perseverance and her loyalty to me. She’s the reason I am the woman I am today…and even though I can’t physically hand her the card, I will write a note to her to tell her what a great role model and inspiration she always was and keep it in a special place. Don’t worry about doing great things….just do little things with great heart. Every small thing we leave behind in our wake will result in something big in the future. A mountain was once level land. So focus on making a difference… not the size of your efforts. My niche is women 30 years and over; and I have worked with many who have lost their self-worth for one reason or another. My message is to all women….that we have all been put here because we have a gift to share. We are here to shine our brilliant light with authenticity and be the unique individuals we are. We are not here to be compared, to live up to other people’s opinions or expectations or fit into a peg hole cut out by someone else. We are creative leaders and inspiring individuals who together will help make this planet the safe, peaceful environment it was meant to be. We will conquer with our spirits, our passions and our tenacity. |
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MICHELLE RICHMOND - Kenya
With over twenty years of clinical experience and a comprehensive knowledge of Coaching and Mind, Body Medicine , I have been privileged to work with a broad spectrum of the community from children rescued of the streets in Kenya, Sex workers from the Slums, women who have become homeless in Sydney to the Corporate CEO. I live between both Australia and Kenya, activating change through Private Coaching, Online Courses, Retreats, Safaris, and Events supporting others to uncover their truth, accelerate fulfilment and fly higher. My passion project is the The Michelle Richmond Foundation which was established for the betterment of the quality of life for the less advantaged in the community. As Patron of the Kipchamgaa Children's Home in Kenya we support 53 beautiful little children from distressed circumstances, providing Safe Housing, Counselling, Education and Support seeing the children laugh, the excitement about their exam results, their pride in themselves that they go to school brings me infinite joy. I've just read a New York times book review of '70 and female is the new cool.' which brings a smile to my face and warms my heart. Just like I.W.D. it shines a light on the impact women are making in our world, it says 'We have broken through societal restraints and created anew normal, where women activating, motivating, inspiring and enriching our families, communities, business and leadership is revered. It pays homage to the big/little step towards creating equality in all aspects of our beautiful world. I'm giving my gift cards to: Tina Clark - Tina is absolutely the best friend you could ever wish for in the world. Her unconditional love, support and generosity is truly unique. She is straight shooter, authentic, and so, so loving and loveable. She is the friend you know has your back and she will tell you how it is unfiltered. I couldn't do the Foundation without her, she is invaluable in everything we create for the Kids Home. I wouldn't be who I am without Tina in my life. Stella Kirui - Unconditional love in action is just one way to describe Stella, who has dedicated her life to be the mother of the children at Kipchamgaa Childrens Home in Kenya since 2004. She has seen them through political uprising, lack of food and money until finally the support came to build a home in which she now cares for 53 children. She is often referred to by many ‘as an angel with wings’, the power of her big, loving heart is evident in the eyes of the children she loves and cares for, the children whom she has generously taken under her wing as her own and nurtures in every way, to be a mother to all the abused and abandoned children. Nicole Esselen - Nicole is humility on legs, the impact she has made in the lives of many goes unnoticed by the world but she is one exceptional human being. For the last twenty years, her passion for people has seen her go places beyond the norm, to observe, experience and more than often share the life of the most overlooked people in the world. Curious and strongly empowered, she has led by example, shared and made an impact in places many people fear to tread and possibly do not even realize exist, from the prisoners of war in Iraq to destitute women in war-torn Eastern Congo. She is You are the future, every change you wish to see in the world starts with you loving you, valuing you, leading from the heart, as our children, our people don't do what we say, they do what we do. No matter where I am in the world, the ethnic background, the social status from the slums in Kenya to the Director of Bank. The teachings I share are exactly the same, the language may change a little but fundamentally everybody is seeking freedom, love and peace and the gateway way is through Self Acceptance, Love and Compassion. To know that you are worthy enough, deserving and valuable. When we love our selves we give others permission to do the same. |
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ABIGAIL MARTIN - Newcastle I am a holistic chef, mama, cafe owner & food stylist. My cafe is The Golden Goat and we support local Farmers, Aussie products and Newcastle roasted Coffee also with a focus on minimising one-use items and instead promoting reusable sustainable items. International Women's day for me is a reminder of how far I have come and not only myself but also the strength and overwhelming achievements of all women from different backgrounds. I believe our biggest life hurdles if overcome with a positive mindset help shape & create our biggest future successes. To be a woman is the greatest honour. I will gift my cards to a few lovely Mothers who may need reminding how great they are gifted with a free coffee at The Golden Goat. If you're ever in Kotara, come grab a delicious Coffee! |
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SABA BEARD - New South Wales
I've been living in the beautiful Northern Rivers of NSW for the past 13 years. Born in Amsterdam, and then pretty much became a full time gypsie from the age of 18 and eventually landed here. I now have 2 beautiful boys and live on a gorgeous 100% off grid bush block. Having always run my own business as this is the only way one can be a full time traveller, I have now launched MY LAST BAG a few months ago, however it's been 18 months in the making. My Last Bag was born out of my own frustration whilst Bulk Food Shopping. Bulk Food Stores are often advertised as Zero Waste stores, however I'd still come home with many paper bags to recycle or compost and this in my book is not Zero Waste. I developed Reusable Bulk Food shopping bags to solve this problem. They are made out of unbleached undyed Hemp with a Food grade liner and are a beautiful asset to your kitchen. We also have a Reusable 100% Hemp Veggie Bag in our range which helps to keep your Veggies fresh for longer reducing food waste. With more innovative products launching this year, keep an eye on My Last Bag as a brand to watch if you love the waste revolution. What does International womens day mean to me? Oh, now that's a big question and the answer for me has many facets to it. On the one hand I am so happy that there is an international women's day to bring attention to gender inequality which is still very much present today in Australia. There is still pay inequality and an incredible amount of violence against woman, not to mention the so called 'innocent' little remarks many make on a day to day basis which are disrespectful and derogatory towards woman. Having this day is an important way to bring attention to these facts and make people more aware which hopefully will bring more gender equality. I also feel that in the bigger picture International Women's day is a day to be super grateful for all I have, as many woman sadly in this world have no rights at all. Here I'm thinking of countries where women don't have a say, where female mutilation is still common practice, I think of all of the woman victim to human trafficking. As sisters of these woman we should use the privileged position we are in to fight for these women and try to make a change. Standing for our sisters all over the world. Then there's another part of me that actually feels sad that there is such a thing as International women's day. Ideally I would like to live in a world where there is no need for an International women's day and where woman and men are valued equally. On a lighter note, it is also simply just a great day to celebrate Women! The first woman I chose to give my gift card to is my beautiful mother. Sadly she is no longer with us on this Earth, her card will go on the altar and I'll burn a candle in her honour. I admire my mums strength so much. Our life wasn't easy whilst I was growing up, we didn't have much money, but not a single day went by where she made me feel like we didn't have enough, she always gave me the feeling of abundance, she always stayed strong for me no matter what she was going through. She was the most amazing woman I have ever known and I continue to miss her every day. My second card will go to one of my dearest friends who often struggles with life. However, she is the most giving, loving, caring person I have ever met. When with her she gives you her presence completely, when she listens she listens with her soul and you feel truly heard. I admire her depth, her clarity in how she sees things and I truly admire how she can always make me see the other side of everything I share with her. Then the last card will go to my oldest childhood friend. We've known each other since we were two and even though our lives have gone in completely different directions she is still very important to me. We don't talk often, live on the other side of the world from each other, but when it matters she's the one who is always there. Being an only child she is the closest thing to a sibling I have and she is truly amazing. Stay true to yourself no matter what, be honest, be truthful, be real! |
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AILEEN SAVIL - Sydney
I am the co-founder and owner of United Tradies Pty Ltd. My husband and I set up United Tradies last year so that people can find really good, honest and reliable tradies for their renovation projects or small jobs around the home. People are time poor so we do the hard work in considering reviews and ensuring that the tradies we have on our website turn up when they say they will and do a good job for a fair price. We also wanted a platform that was fair to tradies. Unlike other sites we don’t take a clip on the ticket for the jobs that they do so they get the full price for the job they do, but above everything we wanted a business that would give back to the community which we achieve through our Make A Difference (MAD) Days where we provide practical help for free to people in need. We have held 2 MAD Days since our launch last year where we have helped 2 families with practical jobs around the home. We provide the materials, our tradies give their time for free and other volunteers join us on the day too. On both MAD Days we had about 12-16 volunteers and spent 12 hours doing over 20 jobs (painting, plumbing, new lights, gardening etc) for the families involved. It has been so rewarding to be able to help. We are also proud to have led a Share The Load initiative to help drought affected farming families in Eurimbla where we took 16 trades and volunteers to help 5 farms for 6 days giving practical help on the farms and in the homes of the farmers. A truly life changing experience for all involved. I'm looking forward to who we can help in 2019 and beyond. I think International Women's Day is a great opportunity for women from all around the world to celebrate who we are and what we do. If we all get involved and do something, however small it may seem, collectively it can have a huge impact. Who are my 3 cards for and why:
I always think you should believe in yourself and reach for your dreams as anything is possible. We only have one chance at life and I don’t ever want to look back and say “what if....”. So say “yes” and give things a go and see where it takes you. Don’t be afraid of change. And (of course) always wear great shoes! |
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JAMII PARKES - Victoria
I am a fully qualified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach and I am the super proud owner of my new online business called Fit Mum Nation. The sole purpose of Fit Mum Nation is to help mums lose their baby weight, have the energy to play with their kids, get their confidence back and to feel sexy, healthier & happier then ever before! I promise you there will be NO fad diets, NO extravagantly low calories and NO promising you crazy results in just a couple of weeks! Results take time, making changes take time and the proper mindset takes time. My mission is to give mums the correct knowledge of how to make exercise and proper nutrition part of their everyday life so they can carry it on after they have finished their 'transform' program with me. Once these foundations are in place you will be unstoppable and there will be no future excuses! I see too many women without the confidence they deserve, hiding away from their true beauty & having no self love and it really saddens me so I'm here to change that for good! This program isn't just an exercise program, it's a life changing program! International Womens day sparks joy for me. It means that all women from every country, every background, every culture come together and celebrate! We celebrate our achievements and what good we do in this world (not saying that men don't). Women are so powerful and strong and are capable of so so much. I just think it's fantastic having a day dedicated to us because I think it's wonderful that the appreciation is there for all that we do! I think that women should celebrate every day and not just 1 day a year because we achieve something each and everyday no matter how big or small. Don't stop being AMAZING! I will give one of the cards to my Mum because she's an amazing woman and the other two I think I am going to give to two complete strangers, purely because I know it would make their day and they would be utterly grateful receiving something with some beautifully written words to read and cherish. This would make me so humbled to be able to make someone else's day. Please love yourself! There are too many women who don't and I just wish I could tell each and every one of them that they are beautiful, they are amazing and that they are someone else's reason to smile everyday! Love, love, love yourself because when you do, you will be at peace with yourself! |
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SOFIJA BUTLER - Auckland, New Zealand
I am a New Zealand born sustainable fashion designer and maker, I have a huge passion for making clothes that are made to be kept. I design for emotional durability, so that each piece will be your new favourite, to be kept and cherished for years to come. This was a line of design thinking that caused me to focus and study a Masters in Fashion & Sustainability. I now work with small runs of natural and sustainable fabrics to create beautiful designs that won't date. International Women's Day is a reminder to appreciate all of the incredible women who have helped and inspired me to be the person I am today. I have chosen to give my gift cards to: 1. My mum Mileva, who has supported me and my dreams all my life and doesn't think any goal I have ever set is too big for me to achieve. Also for showing me that working and caring for your family is totally possible. 2. Belinda Watt, Head of Fashion Design at Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design, who has always raised the bar and enabled me to learn how I can make a difference in the world of fashion and sustainability. 3. Jessica Greetham, knitwear designer extraordinaire and friend. Jess inspires me with her bravery and openness, talking to her makes owning a business less scary. The one piece of inspirational advice I want to share is: Feel brave enough to follow your curiosity. Wherever it might take you. |
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SARAH CULLEN - New South Wales
My sister and I run a business that takes people on tours swimming with whales in beautiful locations all over the world, like Tonga, Tahiti, Norway and more. Our main focus besides providing a high level of customer service is to ensure that the animals are respected and all guidelines are followed to ensure a safe experience for both the guest and the beautiful creatures we encounter. We also pride ourselves on being an eco friendly business and take every opportunity to educate our guests on taking care of our beautiful oceans. International women's day is such a great opportunity to celebrate women and all the important roles they play. As mothers and business owners, my sister and I do sometimes struggle with balancing everything and stress levels can be very high, but we are also extremely grateful that we are lucky enough to be doing something we love while still being able to raise our kids. I am constantly blown away by the women around me and what they are capable of and more and more each day I am releasing how important the relationships are with the women around me. I decided for my three cards that I would give one to to a friend, one to a family member and one to someone who inspires me professionally. I will give one to my mum because as a mother of four girls, and grandmother to 9 grandchildren, I couldn't think of anyone better, she's one of the most amazing people and we are so lucky to have her. I am also choosing to give one to a kind, strong woman who runs the Australian Ocean Film festival, we have been working alongside Jemima for a few years but and she is incredibly inspiring to us. The last card was hard to choose because I have so many beautiful friends, but I decided my oldest friend who has been with me through everything and is one of the funniest, kindest girls I know and such a loving and strong mother. Lastly my piece of advice for all the girls, something that has always helped me to be brave and take risks in life...... courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. Thank you for giving me a chance to be involved in this movement, we should celebrate women every day, but it's been nice to take a moment out of the hustle and bustle of life to reflect on how amazing women are!! |
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SANDY LOUDEN - Gold Coast
I am the owner and cultivator of Cultivate Web Design – a WordPress web design agency. I love designing websites, love the creative space and absolutely love working with businesses to ensure they shine bright online, with their website working 24/7 worldwide for their business. When working with a client I delve deep into what the business is about, the essence of the business, it’s mission and vision, along with their goals and intentions for their business. I aim to understand everything about the business and the owner and staff, the product or service and their market or industry. I have a beautiful partner, three gorgeous little people and a puppy named Malcolm, I live on the beautiful Gold Coast. International Women’s Day has a special place in my heart as it is also my birthday. My birthdate is 8th March 1971. Part of my passion and mission with Cultivate is to empower and enable women to shine in business. It makes me proud and humble to celebrate my day with women all around the world I am going to give my three cards to – Sandra Milisic, a girlfriend I have known for many years, and after 4-5 years we finally caught up the other day and it was both an inspiration and a great place to share where we are both at, and where we have been. The second card will go to my girlfriend Liz Haile, she has always been there for me, no matter what, gives me an honest approach to matters at hand. And the third card will go to my daughter, Jordan, we have been separated by issues between my ex-husband and I, and things haven’t been handled well, however I have always told her I'm here as her carer and guide in life and will always be there for her, I want to know she is worthy and should always shine her light bright. My inspirational advice to women is… ‘women are strong, women are innately intuit; we must never forget what’s inside’ |
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TRACEY HAZELWOOD - Victoria I am a freelance marketer and I'm passionate about helping small businesses with their marketing, by looking at your business holistically and working with you, on a plan to help grow your business and meet your goals. I work with other agencies and freelancers to help achieve the best results for your business. To me, International Womens Day means supporting other women in what they do - whether they choose to work out of home, or in home. Whether they work for themselves, or someone else, or if they are a stay at home parent. It's about uplifting, being kind and having each other's back. For me it's also to show my girls that women can do anything! There is still so many instances in our day to day lives, where women are still fighting for equality - I want to teach my girls that they can be strong, back themselves and be who they want to be. |
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SOPHIE DI PIETRE - Sydney
I'm married to a handsome Italian – Australian man. I am a founder and CEO of a successful interior architecture firm, ‘ORO design & architecture (ORO design) based in Alexandria, Sydney. I have been running this firm for over a decade now. I started this firm from ground up and have now with me a dynamic team of 10 women and we create unique, customised concepts and fit outs for our retail and commercial clients all across Australia, Asia and Europe. 10 years ago, all I had was this dream to be where I am today. I naturally had to put in a lot of sweat and blood to make it come true. At the beginning especially since I started with nothing but $1,300 in my bank account. After years of struggling, doubting myself, being emotionally & financially broken, questioning myself about my own abilities, I am here today quite content with where I have reached and with lots of hopes for where I can be in the future. I am here today because I strived through all the heartaches and failures persistently. But I know this is not the end. I have bigger dreams and bigger ambitions to achieve every year. Time is essential for everything in life but nothing can stop you from being better than who you were yesterday. Most importantly, the quaint voice within me never lets me give up. I have always believed that women are the key to this society we live in. All of us are influenced by the first women in our lives, our mother. We are raised by her and we are who we are because of the beliefs she taught us and the education she gave us and we all together, in turn, constitute what the society is today and in extension, the nation and the world. International women’s day gives both men and women a chance to remember the contribution of a woman in everyone’s life. Be it birth, education, physical and mental wellness that guides us throughout our lives. As a mother, grandmother, sister, wife, friend, colleague, teacher and as YOU, its time to celebrate all the women in the world! Its time we brought all our thoughts together to unite as one, to help the world we live in, to help those in need and in the same time, educate men as we go along. I would like to give the first card to my mother, for only I know how much she sacrificed herself for what I am today and I want to thank her. The next one would be to my husband who has always supported me and stood by me to achieve my dreams and ambitions. The third one would go to my amazing team at ORO. My advice to the women out there would be the same. ‘ Be amazing, never forget who you are, do not ever doubt your abilities, and most important of all – never stop loving yourself!’ Together, we can achieve anything we want to! Being a woman is the biggest and the most powerful blessing to us. Never let yourself become a victim to any circumstance, rather overcome every disadvantage because that’s how strong you are! Be a leader of your own self and make every opportunity count starting from not tomorrow but today! |
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ANNE CLARK - Victoria
I’m a business and life coach. I help women create a business that is aligned to their vision and goals, giving them the tools and resources to block the ‘white noises’ that are sabotaging their path, to learn to trust their journey and intuition, and establish their own unique work/life balance. International Women’s Day for me, is celebrating and acknowledging women past and present who have helped create opportunities for today’s woman. They have stood strong and faced challenges and shared their teachings and journeys to enables to create better paths for ourselves and to always strive for what we desire. Card #1 will be to my mum, for always inspiring and empowering me to believe in me and always reminding me in time of doubt how far I’ve come. Card #2 is for my daughter to tell her she’s amazing and nothing should ever stop her from fulfilling her dreams and that I will be there to support her no matter what her desires may be. Card #3 is to be left in a random place for a woman to find, to tell her she is amazing, she has a gift the world needs and to pay this gesture forward by leaving a little card of encouragement for another women. One piece of inspirational advice that I'd like to share is: It is never too late. If you’re intution and heart is desiring you to fulfil a dream, then do it. Don’t let your age, others or anything stop you from going for it. Live with I tried, than I regret. We hold ourselves back from fear of failure, but my favourite line is ‘What if I fly?’. Those who mention Sophia Mulheran Designs will receive a 10% discount of my 1:1 coaching package. |
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DANIELLE ROBERTSON - Queensland I’m a designer, developer and director of Robertson Web Design & Development. I specialise in all things design, print and websites. We work with small to medium sized clients Australia-wide and internationally. I live on the Gold Coast, Queensland with my 3 beautiful bambino’s Aged 11, 7 & 4 along with my talented husband Matt. My business gives me the opportunity to work with women from all walks of life. I work directly with CEOs, Mums at home, fellow creatives… You name it – I’m working with them to bring dreams to reality. I love watching other women in business flourish. Helping them design, develop and communicate the direction a business, product or online presence forward. Thanks Sophia for the opportunity to be involved with this wonderful movement for International Women's Day. I will share these three cards with beautiful inspirational woman that surround me. A client, A friend in my creative tribe and the last one will be dedicated to my daughter. I want my daughter to grow up in a world knowing a life without limits. I will continue to teach her that the universe does indeed have her back. My favourite quotes especially one to my daughter & my tribe. “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself”. You are enough and you will always be enough! Share your beauty with the world! |
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TANYA ADBUL JALIL - Victoria
I'm a busy mum of three kids (7, 5, and 3 years old) and run my own business, Your Business Wife, offering copywriting services and training for small businesses in creating and managing online content. After leaving my corporate job, I wanted to help other mothers who wanted to make a career change to finally follow their dreams or set up their own business. As I started growing my business, I realised there was a need for small businesses to get support in creating their online content in a way that wasn't just adding another stress to their already busy lives! International Women's Day is something I've been passionate about from first attending workshops in high school, to celebrating the women in my life who boost me up every day. This year will be extra special, in light of the #metoo movement, and seeing first hand the increasing number of women starting their own businesses and being recognised for their skills and passions that I get to work with every single day. I'll be sending these cards to: My friend Heather, who is a writer, feminist, proud body positivity and disability advocate. She inspires me to educate and inform myself of issues beyond myself, and to be a better writer. My friend Leila, who picks me up when I'm down, cheers me on every day and believes in me, even when I don't believe in myself. A special business buddy, Suzanne, who invested in me, and supported my little business when it was tiny, and shouts my name from the rooftops whenever she gets the chance. It's never, ever too late to do something different and change your life. Even when it seems like you're in so deep there's no light at all, just do one tiny, 5-minute thing each day to take a step towards change. |
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HAYLEY BANGHAM - Western Australia
I am a potter living in Dunsborough, Western Australia. I have just recently launched Conscious Clay, a business born from the death of my Grandfather. Several years after he passed, I created a new type of urn for him, which now supports the growth of new life rather than holding ash. After 2 years of design and development (using my grandfather’s ashes and the ashes of a friends grandmother gifted me), I now have the opportunity to offer my services to others. I create wheel-thrown candle holders and planters and then entwine the ashes of a loved one into a glaze I have specifically developed for these vessels. My vessels are designed to support new life in the form of a flower or flame, or to cradle the ring of a lost love. It is my hope to bring the memory of our loved ones back into our everyday life with the watering of a plant each morning or the lighting of a candle each night. This is an extremely new concept, unique to Conscious Clay, which is being received as a beautiful and unique way to remember and honour our loved ones. It gives me joy to know that my vessels give families an opportunity to care and interact with something tangible after loss. I hand craft every vessel to order, and it is ultimately the ashes expression within the glaze that produces the final results. These vessels are truly unique, an absolute one of a kind. It is my hope that Conscious Clay vessels can offer those that have suffered loss a small sense of comfort. My sister Narelle Chenery founded Miessence, The first certified organic skin care range on the planet back in 2001. She built an empire beginning with creating gifts for her friends developed in the kitchen we grew up in together! Narelle has lead the path for me, showing that all women can be successful and celebrated when they truly believe in what they represent. I am far from creating an empire, however I love what I do. My life is enriched because I have the opportunity to do exactly what I want and at the same time giving people a little bit of comfort. I think my three gift cards will go to the women in my family, my sister, my mother, who is a never ending flow of care and love, and my nana, who still at the age of 95 makes me belly laugh with her quirky and politically incorrect sense of humour. Even at her age she doesn’t ever take herself too seriously, a lesson I try and hand down to my children. |
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TRISTAN FAHEY - New South Wales
I’m a fitness nut, a health & wellness entrepreneur, a strategist to corporates, a mentor/coach, a mum and a passionate advocate for women to be free to find their impact and influence, through better energy, health & wellness. I run Rubifresh – a health & wellness brand focusing on natural products for skin health, plus gut health and sleep. We also run Wellness Workshops and Retreats to help women build healthier habits into their everyday, and achieve maximum, consistent energy in their day. International Women’s Day is a day to recognise and honour how amazing all women are, whether we are in the role of wife, mum, daughter, sister, friend, boss, volunteer, or all of the above! It's not a day to raise women above men, but simply a chance to say ‘well done’ to the women around us who inspire and lift us up, and who perhaps need lifting up themselves. My gift cards will be given to my niece, my friend and my sister, who wouldn’t feel part of the ‘women’s movement’ due to their circumstances, but who all should know they play their own part in the force that is ‘woman’ in our world. My greatest lesson as a woman has been to strive only for authenticity. To find my own purpose. My own rhythm. My own song to sing. There should be no striving other than to be truly YOU. |
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BRITTANY DOMANICK - Ohio, USA
I'm a boy mama to a 3 year old and a wife to an extremely hard working man! I taught elementary school for 9 years before realizing that life was slipping past me and I was craving more connection with my family and freedom with my time. I made a scary decision to take a chance on myself and resigned as a teacher. I opened up an online clothing boutique targeted towards mamas who love style. My boutique is a community of woman who are positive, hardworking, super busy, and use fashion as a way to express themselves while juggling the millions of tasks that come with motherhood. My mission is to empower woman to be brave and make changes in their life that will make themselves and the people they love happier! Nothing gives you courage more than a fabulous outfit! International Woman's Day is about recognizing woman who make a difference in other people's lives through day to day interactions ( many times not even realizing it ). I gave a card to my mom who was a single mom to two girls and through it all always put her kids first, despite not having time for herself. Another to my sister, who brings laughter and joy to everybody around her with her calmness and positivity. She is currently raising two strong girls who I know will take over the world with their kindness and love. Last, one of my closest friends Tara, who is a fearless leader in all parts of her life and is raising three girls to be fearless and kind leaders as well. |
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KENDRA BILLINGTON - New Zealand
I'm a 23 year old creative who loves nature, animals, and people. Over the past two years I've really struggled with depression and anxiety. Now, I'm pretty much out of it, and I'm determined to make a real difference in other peoples' lives. There's a big gap in communication between those who have a mental illness, and those who don't understand it. I created Hecksplorer to hopefully bridge that gap, along with providing tools for managing mental health that actually work! Coming from someone so deep in that world, I think that's pretty special. I think it's so important for women to support each other and be recognised for everything we do behind the scenes. We work just as hard as anyone. I love to chat with other women and see where they're at in life, the struggles they face, their successes and their dreams. Sometimes it feels like the entire world is out to get you, so it's nice to sit back and think about how far you've come despite everything. The first gift card is for my mum. She's always been there trying her best to keep up with all the changes I'm making, supporting me all the way. Especially when it comes to my mental health. The second one is for my flatmate when I was a student. She took me under her wing when I was in a new city and knew nobody. We live in different cities now, yet we still catch up regularly and it always leaves me feeling refreshed. The third card is for my workmate. She is the most hard-working, enthusiastic, positive person I've ever known. She never fails to drop some inspirational pep talk when you need it. The one piece of advice that I'd love to share is: Never let anyone dictate your dreams. They're your dreams, and in this century you really can achieve anything. So just do it! "I don't believe in failure. It is not failure if you enjoyed the process." - Oprah Winfrey |
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PETRINA CURD - Queensland My name is Petrina Curd I am a Mum of two beautiful children Joel and Tahlia, and a step Mum to three beautiful boys Bailey, Joshua and Cameron. Being a Registered Nurse I have always had the desire to help, nurture and care for people during there most vulnerable time. This lead me to wanting to provide people with luxury gifts that provide happiness during the most special times of your life. I am the proud owner of Pretty Little Gift Box and online store that specialises in luxury hampers and gifts. This has been a dream of mine for over two years and finally last October I was able to make my dream come true. International Women’s Day to me is about women coming together to acknowledge, celebrate and encourage their success and dreams. It is a day for women from all walks of life to be accepted by strangers and praised by them for the achievements that they may have made. I have chosen three different women to gift my cards to the first lady is Cindy – She is currently going through a tough separation but she is continuing love herself and be respectful in the situation. The second is Lanie a truly inspirational friend with a heart of gold who would truly do anything for anyone without expecting anything in return. Lanie has brought so much happiness to a lot of peoples life including mine that I wanted to so something special for her. The third is Lynne a truly great leader and business manager going the extra mile for all of her staff and clients, even with very little appreciation. Lynne truly deserves to be acknowledged. Lastly I would like to share this with everyone “If your dream doesn’t scare you it isn’t big enough and change begins at the end of your comfort zone” |
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LAINIE TAYLER - Victoria
I am the Founder and Managing Director of HR Squad. We are a boutique firm focusing on supporting and growing amazing businesses with practical and simple people & HR solutions. We believe in enabling managers and staff to run their own organisations with a little help from us! We love innovating and making things less complicated in the workplace for employees and managers. I am a mum to Georgia and Jacko and wife to my beautiful husband Chris. Chris stays home and runs our household so we can together make all our dreams come true. Without his support I couldn’t keep building and growing my business. I am lucky enough to be surrounded by many strong, supportive and amazing women in my life and I would like to try and be that for all the girls and women I know in my life, or even those I haven’t met yet! Girl power is a real thing! I have 6 cards, got a little excited! I am giving one to my daughter who inspires me everyday with her strength and determination, my mother who has been a guiding light on authenticity and being your true self, 3 women who blow my mind with their strength and support and my last card to someone I know who needs to know she has a safe place to land and is loved. And for all the girls and women that walk this planet, time spent in self-reflection is never wasted, it is a gift to yourself and makes you stronger and smarter. |
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EMILY GUALTER - New Zealand
I live on a farm near Wanaka, New Zealand. Today, I support young professional women to feel confident in their own skin, to have strong relationships, lead fulfilling lives and know they are worth it! But life wasn't always like this for me. Two years ago, I hit a rock bottom, feeling like I was living someone else's life. I turned inwards to work on my mindset; clear out all the thoughts, feelings and beliefs that were keeping me stuck in a rut of constant overwhelm, unclear of what my passions were and feeling dissatisfied with my life. Coming out of my own transformation, I just knew I wanted to share what I had learnt with the world so I trained as a coach and today I am an empowerment and personal development speaker and coach. I work privately with women to live their most fulfilling lives and with organisations to speak at their conferences, events, and workshops to support their communities in growing from strength to strength. For me International Women's day is a celebration of the past, present and future. It captures all that the women before us have walked through to get us to the place of opportunity that we are fortunate enough to stand in. We celebrate all that we are in the here and now; all the fabulous, amazing, inspiring ladies we have in our lives. And finally, we recognise the places we still need to shed light, the work still to be done to reach the place we dream of for our children. I have chosen to send cards to 5 ladies who have shaped me into who I am today. Firstly my Mum. she is an incredible leader, who always taught me to walk my own path to stay true to myself, to work really hard and that not everyone in the world is here to love you so ensure you love yourself, and surround yourself with good people. Next my Grandmothers, one taught me to be creative, how to cook (one of my most favourite past times), to be gentle and loving and to always be present with people as they are the most important thing in that moment. My other Grandmother, taught me lots of practical things like waste not want not, that things come to those who work hard. I am also going to send a card to my two baby sisters, who are shining mirrors in my life. They have ensured my feet stay on the ground, challenged my thinking and supported my growth. One of the greatest gifts, we as women can give ourselves and the world is love; to give and receive love. When women collaborate, celebrate, and support each other the force is almost unstoppable and the change we see in the world breath taking. |
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SARAH PAGET - Gold Coast I am the Owner/ Designer of Sarasvati Jewelery. All of our jewelery uses the highest quality of crystals and gemstones to connect you with the healing energy of our planet. I also work as a Marketing Specialist and a Professional Photographer on the Gold Coast. To me, International Womens Day, is all about embracing ones Inner Goddess and Divine Femininity. I will give my cards to three of the most inspiring women in my life. My beautiful Stepdaughter, Chloe, who embraced me into her life with love and warmth. She puts her absolute all into everything she does and spreads love and positivity to everyone around her. My amazing Mother, Lisa, who raised me as a single parent and worked extremely hard to provide tools and activities to help my passions grow. She inspired my love for photography, food, nature, arts & magic. The third card will be for my amazing Second Mommy, Susan, who took me into her life as another daughter. As my best friends Mother, she embraced me into their family and has always been there for me for anything I might need. She is the most generous person with the brightest light one could ever hope to meet. A piece of advice I would like to share with women all over the world is to be brave and daring. Ask questions and push yourself outside of your limits. The only thing that can ever stop yourself is you. If you don't ask a question, the answer will always be no. |
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TISH FAWCETT - Queensland
International Women's Day gives me the opportunity to recognise and celebrate women working for equality. I believe we need to empower women of all ages to not be afraid to give anything a go – and I think that is the epitome of International Womens Day – empowerment! I have given my cards to women who inspire me, and who are inspiring others. One is my business mentor who didn’t believe she had it in her to succeed in business, but instead has rocked leadership to its core and promotes empowerment to all her clients – she is such an inspiration. I am a health coach and I have sent another card to one of my clients who lives in the Solomon Island. Despite living in a remote area and not having access to some food products, she stuck to the programme and has done an incredible job, whilst telling her friends and family what she was doing and encouraging them to do the same by trying to adopt a healthy lifestyle. I have sent another card to a beautiful indigenous Australian who I’m lucky to call my friend. Last year was a huge year for her career – she was elected to represent Queensland on the Board of Directors at the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Association (NATSIHWA) and also won a scholarship to Sri Lanka for the graduate diploma in indigenous health whilst also studying at Sydney Uni – phew!! She is such an inspiration to her co-workers, her family and her community – another person who embodies the spirit of International Womens Day. |
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CHRISTIELEE PLUMRIDGE - New South Wales
I am a single mum to 4 girls and have raised them on my own since losing my daughters father to suicide a year ago. I have previously struggled with addictions and have bipolar disorder, I am a suicide loss survivor, a child sexual abuse and rape survivor and it has taken years of working on self love but I am stronger than ever now both physically and mentally. I am a healthy mummy consultant and I run a group of over 5600 mums and empower them to embrace their entire being and teach them how to nourish their bodies without focusing solely on weight loss. I also run a mummy blog and I write about motherhood and all that comes with it like mental health issues, suicide loss, raising empowered children and I really empower women to support each other and themselves. I write blogs that encourage and inspire mums to learn to live their own normal. International women’s day is such a personal day for me. It encompasses all that it means to be a woman of today and how far we have come in our fight for equality. It’s a day that is here to remind everyone no matter gender, race, age or social standing that we still have a battle ahead of us to be equal and the only way to win the war is by going into battle together as one. It’s a day where women are celebrated for their contribution to this amazing world we inhabit, to the business world and on a personal level and to recognise that women are powerful! To witness women supporting women is one of the most beautiful and life changing acts to witness and be privy to. It is a day that will help change stereotypes and allow future generations, my daughters generation to live in a society that understand a woman’s value beyond the size written on the tag of her jeans and we will finally embrace and empower them as women. I will empower them as women. The world will empower them as women. I have chosen to give my cards to my daughters, even though I tell them every day how truly inspiring, courageous and powerful they are I believe these cards will have a positive effect on how they see themselves. One piece of advice is tell other women is the same advice I tell my daughters: What other people think of you is none of your business! I allowed other people’s opinions of me control so much of my life and too often I submitted to others out of fear of retribution, it took many years of finding my voice. I have worked on self love and acceptance and been on a long and often arduous journey of self discovery and it has brought me exactly where I am meant to be. I have no conditions on my self love and want other women, teens and girls to know that they have the power to live their lives and love themselves unconditionally within them and no one else can take that power from them. |
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KRISTIN BELL - New South Wales
I am a High School Teacher, Year Adviser and Careers Adviser. I am the Director of Indie Recruitment, a company specialising in the preparation of resumes and cover letters to give individuals the confidence to apply for the next role in their career. We also help small businesses to recruit staff. In my down time, I enjoy renovating and flipping houses, exercising, and spending time with family and friends. I love being able to work with individuals of all ages find their passion through their career and achieve their goals, whatever that may look like. I love being able to help others and show kindness and support. When I think of International Women’s Day, I think of how special it is to be a woman, and the strength that we have as females. A few years ago, I became ill from a routine vaccination. Through this, I gained an Acquired Brain Injury, an Auto-immune illness, and had to learn to walk, write and speak again. Going through this ordeal and living with a disability has impacted my worldview, and encouraged me to look for the unique characteristics in each female, regardless of background, age or ability. All women are strong, powerful and utterly amazing creatures. I plan to give my cards to women in a local shelter, to encourage them and remind them to never give up. Too often we get caught up in our everyday lives that it is important to think of others. A small gesture can go a long way, especially to those who are struggling. This International Women’s Day, my hope is for all women to take a moment and celebrate the positive impact they are having on the world, no matter how large or small their actions may seem. Always remember your strength, support those around you, and always show kindness to one another. Remember to always have a little faith in yourself and others. |
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GAMZE CASSANDRA EVREN - Sydney
All those years during my childhood, a strong sense of not being enough and unworthiness were my companions. But deep down, I had a feeling that there was a way out. I believed that no matter what one goes through, there is always a way out to a better life. And I did just that, very gradually in the beginning. All these years of learning, practicing, teaching, studying, helping led me to where I am right now. Some call it experience, some call it magic. I call it neuro-trance psychotherapy. I'm now providing a one-stop solution at my own company, Inner Circle Healing, for middle-aged career women who feel stuck in their life, running around in circles no matter how hard they tried, loaded with invisible burdens on their shoulders. Sometimes these burdens are results of our childhood traumas & own life experiences, sometimes simply don't even belong to us in the first place but results of transgenerational traumas passed on to us in order to be solved. I proudly help these women to empower them with lasting results by putting them in touch with their own inner resources, in a few highly specialized tailor-made neuro-trance psychotherapy sessions. After our sessions, my clients break free from whatever was holding them back and with relief, power, and much more energy, they freely pursue their life goal with full confidence and joy. To me, International Women's Day is a perfect reminder to us that life means celebration and joy. We have so much wisdom and experience to share, and we certainly are all worthy of love and respect. One of my gift cards is for my mom, who made me understand that I was loved by and worthy of my little 13-year-old life when she discovered my attempt. I'm grateful for her that she made me realize that my life was indeed important. The second gift card is for my 13-year-old daughter Lal, who is a gift to me, for her to feel how special she is and to appreciate that soon she'll become part of this sisterhood to empower herself & others by her strong personal qualities and skills. The third card is for my little sunshine, 8-year-old daughter Lila. I'd like her to receive her first ever card from me and let her feel how pleasant it is to be a part of something bigger and that we'll always be connected no matter what. My message is; never give up. Your life is a precious gift, not just for you but also for people who come into your path. There is always somebody with what you can share with them would make a huge difference in their life. If something is holding you back from fulfilling your life desires, don't be shy to ask for help. You are perfect as you are, you just need it to be reminded to you. |
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Empowered Women, Empower Women!
It's a well known phrase amongst women now and the truth is that empowered women really do empower women! It's part of the reason why we've decided to share one hundred incredible stories from one hundred different women. We wanted to showcase that you can turn your dreams into reality, that you're not alone in your struggles and that inspiration can be found in the most unlikely places.
Because there are so many women out there who have a positive and inspirational message to share, we also wanted to share with you a quick snippet from other women from around the world who have become involved in this project. You can learn more about their stories and what they do by clicking on the button below each beautiful face. There are so many beautiful women to discover...
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CRYSTAL EDDY - NSW
IWD is important to me because it all starts with one woman empowering another which starts a ripple effect felt around the world. |
JESSE KING - Queensland
“How incredible it is to connect on this day, to celebrate and honour women around the world, our journey and our united voice.” |
ANGELA TAYLOR - Queensland
“I am a passionate advocate of strong women & love that we can collectively celebrate the unique & magnificent achievements of our fellow sisters” |
MICHELLE MATTHEWMAN
International Women’s Day is incredibly important, regrettably women have had to remind the world that women have the same birthright as men, the right to fair pay, the right to feel safe. We need this day to remind not just men, but ourselves that we are worthy, we can achieve the same heights. My Profits for Purpose business supports local womens shelters for women and children fleeing domestic violence. |
CLAIRE MORGANS
- New South Wales - Every woman is extraordinary - it's great to have a day that facilitates reflection and celebration around the amazing achievements of women past and present, and to get excited by what the future holds! |
SIMONE VANDEN-DRIESEN
International Women’s day to me means celebrating how far women have come in our culture and recognising how far so many still have to go to be allowed to be the best versions of themselves. Acknowledging our strengths and celebrating the power of our gender. It means acknowledging those who forged the path ahead of us and working with each other to keep the path going. |
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AMI SHAH - NSW
For me, International Women's Day is important because it is a day to celebrate the achievements & intelligence of each and every woman. |
HANNAH GRAHAM - QLD
The most heroic people I know are women and they should be celebrated! |
TRACY HILLIER - Victoria
It’s a day where women can reflect on their lives, enjoy each other’s company and have gratitude and be thankful for what they have. |
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JENNIFER WRIGHT - Victoria
IWD day for me is about LEGACY - Celebrating those who have gone before us, those who have passed and those who remain in the here and now. A strong thread that is woven into each of our lives. |
LOTTA LASSESSON - Bali
International Women's day is to me, a reminder that my Creator made us special, with unique strengths and powers. ♡ |
SARAH MARRIOTT - NSW
International Women’s Day is important to me because: I am a Mum to 4 beautiful girls, including 2 baby twins – I need as many beautiful positive role models for them in the world as possible! |
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NATASHA OSMEND-DREYER
For me, IWD is less about the global movement and campaigns and more about an opportunity for all of us, women and men, to celebrate all the amazing things that we and our female friends, colleagues and the women who inspire us, have done and will do on behalf of women. |
JENNIFER BROSNAN
International Women's Day is Important to me because when women connect, collaborate and have community the opportunities and possibilities are endless! |
DEBBIE PHILLIPS
International Women's Day is important as I believe it should be a day that reminds us to support each other, not denigrate - women supporting women can make the most magnificent changes in the world. |
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MARIA MCGRATH
IWD is so important because we need a collective voice resonating around the world demanding equality and the end of centuries of suppression, of women feeling less than 'good enough', & when this voice is loud enough, it may continue to resound every day, not just 1 day a year. |
JESSE RICHARDS
To me, International Women's Day is a celebration of the unspoken ‘sisterhood’ we all share - women supporting and empowering each other in all that we do. |
ALANA BAIRD
The world needs more strength, virtue, revolution, nurture, storytellers, dreamers, voices for change, new ideas, open minds, different approaches - everything we woman are capable of and more, the futures’ counting on us and we can certainly deliver. |
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MICHELLE SORRENSEN
IWD is important to me because we are carving the path ahead for our daughters to walk. As women, we show them what is possible when you feel fully supported to live your truth and chase your dreams even if that means carving new paths sometimes. |
JULIE MUIR
It’s very impactful to collectively shine a spotlight on women’s issues on one particular day as there is strength and power in banding together, something we would do well to remember more often. |
CHARISSE GOODE
International Women's Day is important to me because encouraging and empowering women to be the best version of themselves and to strive for their dreams is one of the most powerful statements anyone can make. |
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EMMA POLETTE
IWD is important to me because it shines a light on women's accomplishments, strengths and contributions rather than the normal focus on bodies & beauty. |
LAURA KLEIN
“She believed she could, so she did” |
SARAH CLARE
International Women’s Day is important to me as it reminds me that I am strong, independent and beautiful. I cam achieve anything I want, and so can you! |
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REBECCA FOSTER
International Women’s Day is important to me as I am a strong believer in equality and equal opportunity for all! |
LIANA PANTALONE
International Women’s day is a time to celebrate the value we as women bring to the world, shouting loudly that there’s beauty and purpose in our differences. |
VAL INKERSOLE
IWD is important to me and my business because women need to feel worthy and inspired so having a day dedicated to this is a true must! |
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GERMAINE REA
International Women's Day is important to me because it's a day where we can celebrate the strength and beauty of women around us and around the world with respect and love, while also connecting with the feminine power within us. |
CLAIRE ASHMAN
IWD for me means standing shoulder to shoulder with women around the world, supporting, encouraging and helping each other, leaving no woman behind. |
AMY ROSS
IWD is important because it means, in countries where we get to choose the type of women we want to be, we get the chance to celebrate the achievements we make when afforded that choice. Not all countries are so lucky. |
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DUSTY REES
I think international women's day is a chance for women to remind ourselves and each other that we a truly capable of anything, look how far we've come, it's so important to support each other |
DEBRA DUNCAN
Women are undervalued and underestimated and we should be celebrating all of their contributions and achievements both in and outside of the home. |
DEANNA FOSTER
International womens day is important to me because I believe when women support and empower each other, we can make incredible things happen. |
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MARIANNE MENTIS
International Women's Day is important to me because it makes me stop for a moment, and be really present & think about the extraordinary kind, intelligent, thoughtful, loving, supportive, witty, creative and super-wise women I can proudly call my friends & confidantes. |
LY AUNAPU
International Women's Day always brings back sweet memories of being a little girl and my dad coming home with flowers and presents to my mum, sister and I. Although the presents were great, it was always about something so much more important. This day is about honouring, accepting and loving yourself and also celebrating other women. |
LAURA SZKUDLAREK
IWD is a time to reflect and celebrate the challenges we have overcome, the projects we have accomplished and the women who have helped lead the way. As a mum of 3 small children, it is extremely important to me to help educate my children on the strength and determination that women hold and to help them see the endless possibilities that lie ahead. |
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HEIDI YOUNG
“International women’s day is important to me because we, as women do so much now and the world is realising, as well as ourselves, that is just might be a possible to have it all. |
KYLIE GREGORY
International Women’s Day is important, not just for me and other women, but for everyone. Our entire world benefits when women feel empowered to balance motherhood, family, and business or a career. |
EMMA LOVELL
International Women’s day is a chance to celebrate all the passion, love, soul, commitment, tears, laughter and bravery women all around the world pour in to their lives, families, friends and businesses. |
MANDY HARGREAVES
International Women’s Day is an incredible opportunity to celebrate the divinity of WOMEN, our evolution, our strength, our beauty, our sisterhood and inspire all women to rise and shine as they were born too. |
TANYA HICKS
International Womens Day is important to me as it's an opportunity to honour all of the divine women making the world better- whether its through raising an amazing soul; living their purpose and/or just leading from their heart in their divine feminine, with scraped knees or wounded hearts or not, rising together. |
LOREN BOUSFIELD
International Women's Day is important because it is a powerful collaboration of women that has led to a globally united movement for women across countries to come together in hope and action |
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DARIAN LENTON
This day is particularly important to me as a young female striving for personal, professional and community based success. I have achieved a lot for a 22 year old woman and overcome a huge amount of adversity and it is pivotal for women such as myself and those around us to celebrate these achievements. I couldn't have gotten where I am today without such strong, independent women guiding me and I look forward to the day that I can be a role model driving change in the near future. |
CATHERINE AND KRISTY
It's a day to celebrate all the wonderful achievements of every single lady out there and all the amazing we continue to do. Today women are still not recognised as equal to men in so many aspects of life. Women are so much more than just mums and those who run the 'household'. Many of us, have careers in the corporate world equal to men, keep the house running, are mums to gorgeous cherubs, have side hustles, and so much more, yet equality, respect and appreciation are still missing in so many aspects of life. |
ALISON GALLAGHER
Supporting other women through ceremony, celebration and community is something that fills my heart with joy. |
DANIJELA GLOGOVAC
IWD is important to me as it’s a day to step back and recognize the work, progress and achievements of previous generations of women and of women today. We all rise when we support, acknowledge and be kind to one another. |
ANNALIESE KIMPTON
International Women’s Day is important to me because it’s about empowering women, and honouring and celebrating the achievements and contributions of all women in society. |
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JACINDA KIDD
International women’s day is important to me as it helps promote equality and is an opportunity to show women they are capable of many things. |
TINA LIDDEN
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LEENA TERRY
I believe that all women are the heart and soul of the world and should be celebrated as such! |
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JODIE COALL
International women's day is important to me as it's one more step in seeing women and men as equal humans in regard to rights. |
KIM OLIVER
International women's day is important to me to acknowledge the struggles we have overcome and to share our experiences and skills to help us all grow and reach even further. |
SUZANNE PAYUMO
It is a time to celebrate inspiring women of all ages who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities. |
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CAITLIN BROOKES
At MyPropella we believe in supporting female travellers and understand that women who travel together are better #balanceisbetter |
KACEE WEDDERBURN
IWD is important to me because we should celebrate women's achievements not bring them down due to jealousy. It’s a day where we should be proud of women’s accomplishments & stand tall together. |
KATARINA BUTTERFIELD
This is important to me because I truly believe that when women are supported, align their intuition and let it breathe that amazing experiences will happen. |
MAXIME NORTON
International Women's Day is important to me because it is a celebration of the collective powerhouse women have become! |
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!! |
BARBORA BEAVEN
Women’s day is important for me because women deserve recognition and respect, my wish is that one day, every woman will be treated as a goddess! |
