International Women's Day #Breakthebias - Kimberley Brown
This IWD we asked some local women to share their thoughts about gender equality and the women that inspire them.
Changing the climate of gender equality
The 2022 International Women’s Day theme is Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow– a theme that recognises the contribution of women and girls around the world, who are working to change the climate of gender equality and build a sustainable future.
We asked some local women to share their thoughts about gender equality and the women that inspire them. We also took the opportunity to get their insights on ways to tackle climate change – to help us live sustainably both which each other and the planet.
Kimberley Brown, North Pier Hotel
Why do you think it’s important to have equality between the genders?
Australia’s first IWD was born from a movement of women calling on equal pay for equal work. As such gender equality is often referred to or highlighted in singular instances, in conversations around the pay gap, or more recently, board appointments, management roles, or sports.
But it is bigger than that, for me personally, it is about treating each other fairly, equal opportunities based on personal abilities, not gender. A gender equity, if you like. Simple human rights that are not relevant to what gender someone may be, being available to all.
IWD helps remind us of change, celebrates women's achievements, and highlights barriers that still need to be broken down, not just in our own circles, but across the globe.
Do you think gender equality is an issue in your workplace or group?
I don't see gender equality as an issue in our workplace. It's all about the right person for the job, and what they bring to a role based on their abilities.
Is there anyone you admire who has made a real difference to gender equality – either locally, nationally, or internationally?
There are many – I admire greatly, anyone breaking those glass ceilings, pushing boundaries or venturing into areas ‘usually’ associated with a particular gender. In my role as a board member of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, I am particularly in awe of females entering the typically male dominated, competitive racing world, the automotive industry generally, engineering and tech sciences.
How will you celebrate IWD this year (professionally or personally)?
Most likely pop a bottle and be grateful for all the women who have gone before to create change.
Thinking sustainably
What kind of things is your business doing to promote sustainability and address the impact of climate change?
We recycle our cardboard and glass, which may not sound like much, but we have an enormous amount of cardboard boxes and glass bottles pass through our business every day. We have water saver heads on all of our showers and whenever something needs replacing we make an effort to find the most sustainable option, whether it’s LED lighting etc.
