International Women's Day #breakthebias- Misha Say
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.
Misha Say - Phillip Island Winery
Why do you think it’s important to have equality between the genders?
Equality in terms of how the different sexes are treated and respected is crucial. It forms how we view ourselves and others and forms the basis of our relationships. The stereotypes start early in life and stay with a person into adulthood, so it’s vital that we focus our attention on our children and ensure the message regarding equality starts at home and in our schools from the get-go.
I also think it’s important to acknowledge our differences, and the fact that as humans, we are actually quite ‘unequal’ in nature. My strengths may not be my husbands or male work colleagues’ strengths and vice versa. I believe this is where true power lies. If we can acknowledge our own weaknesses, encourage others strengths, and fill one another’s gaps, as a team, amazing things can be achieved!
I also think it’s important to note that men can often get forgotten in all of this and that I have witnessed first-hand the pressure men can feel trying to live up to these traditional stereotypes of having to be a ‘real man’, not allowing themselves to be vulnerable, emotional beings and feeling like they need to be the main income provider and supporter of the family. Again, it comes back to not feeling like we need to be all things, to all people at all times, it’s ok to share the load.
Do you think gender equality is an issue in your workplace?
No I don’t. We’ve always worked very hard to ensure the same opportunities are available to both males and females, and that their roles are rewarded equally. We try to promote a team building environment, whereby someone’s weaknesses are supported by someone else’s strengths.
Are there any steps you’ve taken in your business to support and promote gender equality?
We always try and ensure a balanced workforce to enable this balance of skills to exist. We also promote respect and the value of each person’s role no matter how big or small. Respect is sharing the power and the roles and valuing our differences equally.
Is there anyone you admire who has made a real difference to gender equality – either locally, nationally, or internationally?
The females in my family have always been huge influencers and powerful role models in my life. We were raised to be very independent. My mother always had her own business alongside my dad and they balanced and shared their parenting roles well.
Growing up on a farm, and close by to my grandparents, it was my grandmother who actually showed me how to deliver a calf! But just as important as the females in our life are, our male role models are equally as influential. My father, my grandfathers and my husband were, and are, amazing supporters of women. This has had a huge impact on me. Knowing that the men in my life think I can achieve anything, instils an unshakeable confidence that I never take for granted, and I see this repeating itself with my own two girls.
If you were PM for a day, what would you do to change the climate of gender equality?
I think education is key, and it doesn’t always get reinforced in the home. I think schools, workplaces and sporting clubs are powerful places of influence, especially for our children. A program that perhaps visits these places to highlight just exactly what gender equality is and how it effects everyone would be a great start.
How will you celebrate International Women’s Day?
We have a fabulous event planned at Phillip Island Winery organised by the wonderful Sam Bennett from our local council. Some fabulous local leaders will be in attendance and I’m so looking forward to hearing what they have to say!
