Finding My Voice – 12 months on....

It was only last International Women’s Day 2022 that I decided to open up about my personal experiences with domestic violence in my younger life. And I've now decided to make this timely reflection an annual thing.

Firstly, while it was really daunting to share my story publicly (and still is), I’m so glad that I decided to do it.

I continue to be amazed at how many people reached out to me (many whom where total strangers), thanking me for telling my story. Many, facing similar situations (past or present), have also shared how it has provided them with a sense of hope and support that it is possible to break the cycle and establish healthy, happy lives and relationships.

12 months later, I was asked to be on a panel for International Women’s Day 2023 and the question I was asked to speak on was ...

What Does Gender Equity Mean to Me?

As someone who experienced both physical and emotional violence as a child, who watched her mother have all control of her life and decisions taken away from her, I understand deeply the long-term impact that gender INEQUITY can have on a person and a family.

After a false start with my first marriage where again I was dealing with inequity, with the determination that I would never be in that situation again, I started my own business.

That was over 22 years ago, as a single mother of 2 boys, and at times it was hard. I experienced sexual harassment, I often felt I was not being taken seriously, and I suffered from imposter syndrome which I believe stemmed from not feeling valued and respected by male counterparts, after all, how could I value myself, if I didn’t feel valued by my peers? But I broke the cycle, I am now the founder of 2 companies and business is thriving.

But it hasn’t always been easy being a female founder of 2 companies, and a Wife, and a Mother of four, (5 if you count the dog). I have lived and breathed (and still do) the endless juggle pursuing work / life balance as well as striving to be accepted and respected as a woman in business as well as being there for my family and meeting all those life commitments such as school events, kids events, running a household and fitting in time for family and friends...not to mention ‘me time’!

I know first-hand how important it is for women to have access to not only the resources but also the support to pursue both career and family goals.

To sum up what Gender Equity means to me....

• It’s a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can pursue their goals and
  dreams without fear of discrimination or violence.
• It’s equal opportunities in education, employment and leadership positions and
  pay.
• It’s acknowledging and addressing the challenges that women and other gender
  minorities face such as the gender pay gap and sexual harassment.
• It's a level playing field, where people have access to the resources and support they need so that they can benefit from the same starting position.

Gender equity is essential for creating a world where all women can thrive. It’s not just a women’s issue, it’s a human rights issue, and I wonder if in my lifetime I will see a level playing field for all - regardless of gender, race or religion.

You can read last year's entry here - https://www.bookwizacademy.com/blog/finding-your-voice