Some of you might wonder why I care so much about International Women's Day. Well, growing up, it just wasn't a thing that was recognised. Sort of like equal pay and recognition of women's sports.
It absolutely thrills me to be in a time where the highest-grossing movie is female-directed and led, and a female pop star is selling out stadiums globally.
I live in a time where being a female CEO of an ag industry body no longer makes me the only woman in the room at least 50% of the time. Where there are no longer more men called John than women in CEO positions (however there are more men called Simon and Andrew than female leaders. Fun fact).
As women working in agriculture, we are showing the diverse roles and opportunities in our great industry, and I know there are now women who will have seen each of you in action and been encouraged to consider being a part of Australian agriculture if not already.
Last year I got into an online debate over my use of the word "diversity" on International Women's Day. I was told people should be appointed because they are the best person for the job - absolutely something I believe - and I don't see any of us in our roles just because of our gender! But I was also bemused diversity was seen as a bad thing - we diversify our investment portfolio to manage risk. We look at diversifying our market access for better opportunities. We diversify our crop rotations - it's the same when it comes to representation. Diversity is a good thing that brings different approaches, ideas, and opportunities. In developing countries, research shows that when more women are involved in farm ownership and decision-making, farm income goes up 22%. Maybe if you don't want to hear female voices, the sound of money talking is ok.
I'm so proud our organisation is one that is diverse in so many different ways and on International Women's Day, it's not a token gesture, it's the norm.
I hope therefore you will excuse my continual excitement of International Women's Day and today you can take a moment to celebrate your strengths. I certainly appreciate them in all of you.
To close, I would like to share with you, these words from our Admin Officer Shadeh Loucas. Shadeh's remarks made me cry today and she is an incredible person to have the privilege of knowing and working with.
To the incredible women in grains, Happy International Women's Day! | Shona Gawel
Thanks Shona for your sincere and heartfelt sentiments on International Women's Day.
As a woman who was born in a country where women are still mistreated as second-class citizens, without even the rights to show their hair and truly express themselves, and then having grown up in several countries where females are respected on their merits and achievements, I feel absolutely privileged to be an Aussie and proud to work for an organisation led by a highly competent CEO and incredibly professional group of men and women, working together in harmony.
Happy International Women’s Day.
Don’t take our liberty and freedoms for granted. There is unity in diversity.
“The world of humanity has two wings – one is women and the other men. Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly. Should one wing remain weak, flight is impossible.”
– extract from the Baha’i Writings.
