This week events around the world marked International Women’s Day.

Growing a deeper sense of purpose and ambition each year, we celebrate International Women’s Day with a spirit of solidarity and togetherness that motivates, inspires, and asks tough questions about the pressing issues facing women in today’s society – women’s safety chief among those.

I find International Women’s Day an opportune time to offer gratitude to the women in my life who have given me strength, friendship and tutelage. This year, I have much to be thankful for.

I am celebrating another significant milestone; 20 years of the Food for Thought Network, which in turn means two decades of committee members, volunteers, sponsors, speakers, family, friends, and advocates who have supported me in developing an inclusive Greek Australian women’s network.

We have had to work hard over this time to establish an identity and stature which provides essential tools, relationships and networking opportunities for a new generation of migrant women, showcasing the importance of diversity in a modern and complex society, and giving comfort and support to aspiring leaders and thinkers.

I have been blessed to drive the growth of the Food for Thought Network, mainly because of the powerful, articulate and inspiring women who have stepped up to share their stories, offer personal and professional advice and pave a path forward for our members.

Here are some of the key things I have learnt in my 20 years leading the Food for Thought Network:

  • Gender equality is not only women’s business – it is everyone’s business. Women require champions at every level and their development benefits society as a whole.
  • The growing awareness for the issues facing women is making an impact. Culturally, we have seen the #metoo grow and evolve, important books including Sex Lies and Question Times by Kate Ellis and Power Play by Julia Banks exposed an unacceptable culture prevalent in Parliament, and young leaders Grace Tame and Brittany Higgins ignited the #March4Justice rallies. More of these brave storytellers and advocates for change will continue to push us forward towards action.
  • Domestic violence, racism and other systemic issues prevalent in our society won’t be solved overnight, but they won’t be solved with silence. Champions for change and advocates for women’s rights around the world have never been more important.
  • It’s cool to be Greek! Every day I see the amazing pride young people have in being Greek, and the strength that offers to their identities. We have come a long way. Twenty years ago, I would meet many women in my corporate life who did not want to be identified as Greek; some had changed their names to avoid the overt racism prevalent in workplaces. We appear to have overcome some of this baggage regarding cultural heritage, and we need to inspire more Greek women to share their voice.

I look forward to learning more over the next 20 years as our Network continues to grow. To all our supporters, ευχαριστώ!