IWD Breakfast
Attending the International Women’s Day breakfast hosted by the International Coalition of Girls' Schools was, at first, akin to stepping into a grand hall of formidable intellects — each student leader exuding an air of polished confidence that was, frankly, mildly terrifying. However, any initial feelings of discomfort swiftly dissolved in the warmth of genuine kindness and camaraderie. The room was not a battleground of wit but rather a sanctuary of shared aspirations, where conversations flowed effortlessly, bound by a mutual desire to learn and uplift.
Each table had icebreaker prompts designed to encourage conversation, and they worked wonders in bringing us all closer. We delved into discussions about our favourite female leaders, their legacies, and, in some cases, our completely justified admiration (borderline obsession) with their trailblazing prowess. I was lucky enough to sit beside the insightful and incredibly kind School Captain of St. Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, with whom I quickly formed a fast friendship.
The true heart of the event lay in the words of Ms. Jess Wilson MP, Member for Kew, and Ms. Georgie Crozier MP, Member for Southern Metropolitan Region. Their speeches centered on empowerment and the idea that change starts with determination and persistence. Jess’ story particularly resonated with me — when she first embarked on her political journey, she quite literally knocked on every door in her suburb, speaking to locals about her values and vision. Now, she stands as an accomplished role model balancing the demands of leadership with the joys of motherhood, a testament to the power of perseverance. Their stories underscored a fundamental truth: ambition, when coupled with unwavering belief, can materialise into remarkable reality.
Following the talks, we engaged in a group challenge where we brainstormed ways to create positive change across our schools. One issue we identified was the often-dismissed topic of recycling. We explored ways to make it more engaging and impactful, considering a fun, interactive assembly where student leaders could dress up as different types of bins, challenging students to categorise waste correctly. It was inspiring to see how, in just a short time, we were already working together to devise creative solutions for real-world issues.
As I left the event, one thought lingered in my mind: how incredibly fortunate I am to be in a position where everything I could ever need to succeed is within reach. To be a young woman with the world at my fingertips, surrounded by opportunities, is a privilege I refuse to take for granted. And with privilege comes duty — the duty to give back, to amplify the voices of others, and to stride forward with purpose.
With love,
Cecilia
