They come from different backgrounds but for four Carinity women, March 8 has special meaning.
That date is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
Hailing from Zimbabwe and now working for Carinity Home Care Hervey Bay, Caroline Gower says the special day “honours those who have come before us and paved the way for those who will follow”.
“Growing up in Africa and watching what is going on around us in the world, International Women’s Day has held deep meaning for me as it represents resilience, progress and our ongoing fight for equality,” Caroline said.
“I come from a long line of determined, passionate and trailblazing women. From farmers during a brutal war, to one of the first female computer programmers in the world, my maternal line carries generations of strength and love.
“Their legacy is written in sacrifice and survival, and I will forever be grateful to have these women as examples for my own daughter’s future.”
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘Balance the Scales’, resonates strongly with Aunty Adelaide Saylor.
Her role at Carinity Education Southside – Indigenous Youth & Family Support Worker – involves advocating on behalf of young women who have faced barriers to education.
“As a proud Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Southsea woman I am keenly aware of the imbalance in our society and work every day to balance the scales,” Aunty Adelaide said.
“This might look like supporting individual students and families to overcome
challenges or providing an awareness of our recent histories.
“I pride myself on lifting others up by shining a light on their own qualities and resilience. I am particularly proud to be helping people to believe in their dreams and to begin the journey.”
Carinity Education Gladstone student, Mercedes Mobbs has benefitted from the support and guidance of school mentors who helped her to “aspire to bigger and better things”.
“They are always guiding and motivating me to achieve my personal and educational goals. I have matured and developed into someone who strives to do the best that I can,” she said.
Mercedes believes International Women’s Day “allows women opportunities to be treated as equals” and “showcase each and everyone’s achievements and abilities”.
Mercedes has some advice for other girls who are facing challenges: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, listen to those who are willing to help, and remember that if you don’t want to help yourself, others cannot help you.”
Tracy Dobson, Client Services Coordinator of Carinity Our House in Toogoolawah, recommends that women and girls challenge themselves.
“Sometimes we have to step out of our comfort zone and have a go,” said Tracy, who worked in aged care, community care and mental health before embarking on a career in the disability sector.
“Things may not always go the way we hope them to and often it can feel like an uphill battle, but if we use the setbacks as learning curves the mountain becomes easier to climb.”
