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Celebrating International Women’s Day and supporting women in business

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Celebrating International Women’s Day and supporting women in business

International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated on 8 March, is a time to honour the incredible contributions of women across all aspects of society, including business.

While progress has been made, many women still face challenges in achieving equal opportunities for success.

To address these challenges, the South Australian Government launched the $4 million Women in Business program, designed to build confidence and capability among female entrepreneurs. The successful program has already supported more than 3,390 women to start and grow their businesses.

As part of IWD celebrations, the Office for Small and Family Business spoke with five successful female business owners from the Women in Business program about why International Women’s Day matter to inspire the next generation and drive meaningful change.

Anna Beaumont

Director & Principal Consultant for Beaumont Solutions

“Recent news from around the world reminds us that women’s equality remains contested, including a dramatic global lack of financing for gender equality solutions that empower women.

“Celebrating International Women’s Day allows us to share stories of success and resilience, showcasing how the women we work with have overcome challenges and contributed to workplace health and safety initiatives.

“The State Government’s Women in Business Advisory Program demonstrates a tangible commitment to us as women business owners, and a belief that we can help secure a prosperous and just economy here in South Australia.”

Holly Stratton

Founder and Director of A Taste Of The Hills Festival

“Women often face overwhelming social expectations, pulled in many directions. There’s pressure to reach career milestones by a certain age, have children at the "right" time, get married, stay fit but not too thin, be confident yet modest, educated but not intimidating, ambitious yet humble, and stand out—but not too much.

“Being a woman can feel like walking a tightrope, constantly balancing expectations and fitting the mould of success. To me, success is feeling truly proud of your achievements and recognising how far you’ve come.

“On International Women’s Day, plant your flagpole in your mountain of achievements. Look back, take in the view, and be proud. New peaks will come, but remember the flags you’ve placed and how far you’ve come.”

Melissa Spehr

Co-owner, Aluminium Plus Windows & Doors

As a woman and business owner in a male dominated industry, International Women’s Day is incredibly important.

“Although things are getting better, there are still industries (such as building and STEM) that have barriers that are stopping young women and girls from entering, for example cultural and structural barriers, gender stereotypes and unconscious bias and lack of women in senior leadership positions within STEM fields.

“As a working mother with primary school aged two children, there are barriers within the workforce that men rarely face; juggling motherhood, childcare duties, family duties, the mundane “family admin” that affects women and mothers the world over - all of these things can affect where, when and how much we can contribute to the workforce, no matter our level of passion.

“International Women’s Day empowers me to not only reflect on my own growth within my career, but to also to celebrate women’s achievements, advocate for equality, and reflect on the progress still needed to create a world where every woman thrives without barriers.”

Shelley Garvie

Owner and Founder – Riverbalms

“International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. For me, it’s about celebrating the journey, and I believe, that who you become while chasing your goals can be just as important as the goal itself.

“Having faced a life-changing diagnosis and overcoming a challenging period of recovery, I’ve learned that resilience is built through adversity. I want to share my story, not only to acknowledge the hard times but also to show that it’s possible to come out the other side stronger and with a renewed sense of purpose.

“Women are incredibly capable, and at every stage of life, we have the power to step out of our comfort zones and achieve amazing things. Courage isn’t about being fearless, it’s about feeling that fear and doing it anyway. Whether that’s facing a challenge, following a dream, exploring a new passion, standing up for one another, advocating for what is right, or embracing the freedom to be your authentic self without limitations, every act of bravery brings us closer to our fullest potential.

“This is where the power of sisterhood truly shines, when we come together, and support and uplift one another, we become unstoppable. Together, we can inspire and empower future generations, creating a world where equality thrives, and women rise stronger, together.”

Dr. Aanchal Gupta

Cataract, Corneal and Refractive Surgeon and Founder and Director of IVISION LASER

“International Women’s Day is a celebration of women’s achievements, particularly in fields where opportunities have historically been limited.

“I hope my journey inspires women in medicine and business to believe in themselves, pursue their ambitions, and create new opportunities.

“It’s not just about overcoming challenges individually, but about paving the way for those who follow.”

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