Released 06/03/2019
International Women’s Day is an important day in the calendar—and an opportunity to dig deep and find your inner feminist so you can be part of the movement to better the world.
This year I begin my activities for International Women’s Day with 200 students from across ACT’s public secondary schools with an event designed to develop and empower students to be change-makers within their community.
Students at today’s event will identify opportunities for change within their school and community, and develop potential solutions and pitch their plans to the Principals and school representatives present.
Students will be supported by a group of respected mentors:
- Sarah Mason, Manager - Digital Engagement, Museum of Australian Democracy
- Sian Keys, ACT Young Citizen of the Year Nominee
- Chiara Grassia, Director - Girls Rock Camp
- Clare Hedley, Wildbear Entertainment
The students will also take part in a panel discussion centred on identifying causes of gender inequality, encouraging students to reflect on their own observations and experiences.
The ACT Government is driving greater gender balance across our community through the ACT Women’s Plan, which provides support and empowerment to women to participate in all aspects of our community.
One highlight of the Plan is the Women in Trade Grants, which has just finalised its first recruitment round. This grant provides both financial and social support to help attract and retain women into male dominated trades within the vocational sector.
The Plan is also working to increase women’s representation in leadership through the ACT Diversity Register which provides greater opportunity for women to apply for boards and committees, as well as opportunities for networking and development.
As Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development and Minister for Women, it is great to see Canberra students getting involved in the discussion about these important global issues and working on ways that they can be part of the change that is needed to drive equality for everyone. While we have a way to go in bettering the balance, our next generation is already helping lead the way.
The ACT Women’s Plan can be found here.
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Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases
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