As the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, the theme “Accelerate Action” takes centre stage, resonating deeply with millions across the globe. In a series of heartfelt reflections, several influential women shared their thoughts on the significance of this day and the power of community and support in overcoming challenges.
Microsoft New Zealand, Managing Director Vanessa Sorenson felt a personal connection to the day’s celebrations because It is her daughter’s birthday. “I just love everything about it, embracing more women, coming together, sharing stories, holding each other up,” she said with a smile. “I hope you have an incredible day.”
Gemma Acton, Director of News Operations at Seven West Media, echoed the importance of solidarity among women. “International Women’s Day is one I look forward to in the calendar every year. It’s a chance for women, no matter whether they’re very senior or very junior, to come together, share experiences, share tips, and help one another,” she explained. “This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is particularly resonant. It’s all about action, doing, moving, making things happen, not just talking.”
For Deborah Thomas, CEO of Count Quality, the day is about lifting others up. “For me, International Women’s Day is about raising up other women, particularly women like me, who have had incredible opportunities and great experience. It’s about bringing others with you and giving them the skills, the tools, and the confidence to really reach their own potential and make the most of their lives,” she said passionately. “I absolutely love mentoring young women and seeing them fly. It’s a real privilege to be able to help people with their careers.”
Antoinette Georgopoulos of Logicalis Australia highlighted the joy of celebrating women in all spheres of life. “International Women’s Day for me means being able to celebrate women through business and in our lives. At Logicalis Australia, we love working with women, and we embrace them, and we try to raise them up throughout our whole business,” she shared.
Reflecting on the global context, Erin Burke from Pepperstone underscored the urgency of community and support. “Given the state of the world at the moment, International Women’s Day is critical, right? There is an attack on women from all different directions, and this is our opportunity to come together in community and really help each other be successful and help each other get through these rough times to show that we are not going backwards. We’re going to continue to go forwards,” she remarked.
As the celebrations unfolded, the collective message was clear: unity, mentorship, and action are essential in advancing the status of women worldwide. On this momentous day, the voices of these inspiring women serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we come together to embrace, support, and uplift one another.
Happy International Women’s Day!