At STM AGENCY, we believe in celebrating women all year round, not just on International Women’s Day.
As part of our celebration, we wanted to share some of the views of our team members on what this day means to them and how they empower women in their personal and professional lives. Catherine, our Head of People, offers her unique perspective on the importance of supporting and lifting each other up.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you personally?
To me, International Women’s Day is all about celebrating the strength and achievements of women across the world. We have come a long way but in other countries there are huge challenges that still exist. Personally, I think it’s about supporting and lifting each other up and celebrating being women.
Who is a woman (past or present) who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by Michelle Obama. I admire how she uses her platform to focus on matters such as education and women’s health. I think she caries herself with grace and dignity and she is an exceptional leader.
What advice would you give to women who are early in their careers?
I am a mum with two girls who are embarking on careers. I tell them to be true to themselves, to work hard (as nothing gets handed to you on a plate) but above all - be kind.
What do you think workplaces can do to create better opportunities for women to thrive?
I think it starts before then to be honest. I think the careers talks in schools are not set up to broaden horizons of girls or boys. It is still very traditional and gender specific, and I believe it is the responsibility of people in leadership positions in industry to get out into schools and help inspire / broaden the horizons of the next generation.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned about gender equality in the workplace?
Anything is possible in work if you want it and work hard enough for it, but the balance of what happens outside of work is still a challenge for working mums. The juggling is real and at times overwhelming for working mums.
How do you celebrate or empower women in your personal life?
I am lucky to have a strong group of women in my family and friends. We have been through real highs and lows together. You need to be there for each other through thick and thin and remember to have some belly laughs along the way!
What’s one skill or quality you’ve gained from a woman in your life that has influenced who you are today?
One of my previous bosses told me to remember that sometimes 80% is ok. For a perfectionist, I find that hard to do, but I often hear her voice in my ear!
What does ‘Accelerate Action’ mean to you, and how do you put it into practice in your own life or work?”
To me it is about trying to make a difference in what you do.
If you could have dinner with any woman in history, who would it be and why?
Jane Austin – she is one of my favourite authors and she wrote interesting, intelligent female characters and I would like to know if she based Mr Darcy on anyone she knew.
