Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma has encouraged local women to join in the local International Women’s Day celebration at The Pavilion, Kiama on Tuesday 8 March.
This year’s International Women’s Day event was conceptualised by a collective of women in the Kiama Community who suggested the idea to Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud at her ‘meet the CEO‘ series of picnics in late 2021.
Eva Loxley, a spokesperson for the women’s collective said: “A group of us felt strongly that Kiama should mark International Women’s Day by including all the diverse communities we have here within Kiama.
“We reached out and it’s been amazing to watch so many powerful and smart women from different backgrounds respond. With the support of Kiama Council, we feel this year’s International Women’s Day will be really special,” said Ms Loxley.
Ms Stroud said: “It’s great to see real outcomes from community engagement such as the CEO Picnics and I’m looking forward to the event, hosted by our Deputy Mayor, Imogen Draisma.”
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias, challenging us to consider a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
Cr Draisma said the Kiama celebration would echo this theme, and present an event that is different from previous years, with a focus on empowering the audience through a diverse, light hearted and creative program.
The afternoon event will host a variety of inspirational conversations and include author, parenting and resilience educator Maggie Dent and Assistant NSW Police Commissioner Stacey Maloney.
“I’m thrilled to be participating in what will be an incredible afternoon listening to women leaders and their contributions to the wider community, as well as being able to share our own stories and experiences,” Cr Draisma said.
“I encourage everyone, no matter what your background, to invest in this opportunity to celebrate our achievements as women, share the challenges we have faced and be inspired for the journey ahead.”
Cr Draisma said she was excited that organisers were assisting 20 students from Kiama High School to attend the event free of charge, as well as offering free childcare and support for those with a disability to ensure there are no barriers to attendance.
As well as headline speakers in Maggie Dent and Stacey Maloney, the program includes:
- Cultural awareness, reconciliation and allyship professional Aunty Munya Andrews
- Chelsea Pottenger providing lifelong tools to reduce stress and burnout, tap into positive energy and build resilience
- LGBTQIA+ representatives dispelling myths and breaking down common communication barriers
The afternoon also has hands-on and power-packed workshops, performances by local musicians, catering by Culinarius and afternoon tea sponsored by Kiama Farmers Market.
International Women’s Day at The Pavilion has received funding support from the NSW Government through a Women’s Week Grant.
Tickets available here with an option to donate to Illawarra Women’s Health Centre also available.
Image: artwork by Em Menzies
