2019 Women of the West Awards - Balance for Better

Written by Ashley Beathe

21C Student Partner Kathy Nguyen and I had the pleasure of attending the 2019 Women of the West Awards on 8thMarch in a stunning celebration of International Women’s Day. The awards honour the outstanding achievements of women in Greater Western Sydney. We had the privilege of listening to guest speaker, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, who shared many fascinating insights from her incredible journey through the Australian political landscape and the valuable lessons she has learnt as a woman during her long parliamentary career.

Throughout her presentation, Julie Bishop expanded on the key theme for this year’s event Balance for Better. She reminded us how important it is to have balance at the decision-making table, particularly in terms of the different qualities, perspectives and life experiences that men and women bring to complex social issues.

Her talk resonated deeply with me, and the work we are engaged in as 21C SAPs, adding our voices to the curriculum-making table in genuine partnership with academics and staff.

Each of the nominees, all the women in the room, together with the eventual recipients of the Awards clearly represent the strength, passion and depth of talent that the Western Sydney region has on offer. Undoubtedly, this will be a community of women that I hope we 21C (women) SAPs can feel proud to walk among in the very near future.