It’s exactly 15 years since the Food For Thought Network (FFTN) was founded by Varvara Ioannou, and the network is continuing its mission to raise awareness about what helps and hinders women’s development.

Its next anticipated event, following on from the overwhelming success of the International Women’s Day Celebration, is a panel discussion on ‘Women in Politics’.

Scheduled to take place on Thursday 19 May, the evening will seek to further inform women about politics, in a bid to encourage them to pursue a career in the field themselves, given that Australia’s ranking for female involvement in national government continues to decline.

And it couldn’t be more timely, given the recent budget announcement and imminent elections expected to take place on July 2.

“We wanted to be current, with two elections this year,” said FFTN chairperson and organiser of the event, Ms Ioannou.

“It was timely to look at women in politics and also inform people about what it takes to be a successful female politician, and to get information about what they do, and what the different tiers of government do.”

Endeavouring to represent varying political ideologies, levels of government and age groups, she says the network is very enthusiastic about the political leaders involved.

Joining the Q&A session as moderator will be lawyer and women’s advocate Maria Dimopoulos, along with panellists Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, federal Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou, state Liberal representative Dee Ryall MLA, and local Independent Cr Michelle Klenert.

Those attending will have the opportunity to submit a question that they would like answered by the panellists when booking tickets online.

So far, questions to be addressed include what does success look like for female politicians, how do female politicians arrive and thrive in a highly male-dominated field, what does it take to become an effective leader, what are the biggest challenges, and how to survive bullying and unethical behaviours, among others.

It will also be a chance to address and pick apart the role of the media, social media and globalisation in shaping and talking about politics.

“A lot of people voting for and electing competent women is both desirable not only for promoting women’s issues, which are human issues, but also for the benefit of society as a whole,” said Ms Ioannou.

“If we look at our statistics, political empowerment for women in Australia rests at 61st in the world; the numbers aren’t very good. We want to encourage women to take on positions in politics, whether it’s at the federal, state or local level, and to get involved.”

‘Women in Politics’ will be taking place on Thursday 19 May at Vibrante Restaurant, 133 James St, Templestowe, VIC from 7.00 pm-9.30 pm. Cost of attendance for financial members is $40 and for non-financial members $50, and includes one dish and a glass of wine. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.fftn.org.au or email varvara@fftn.org.au