Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself and what drives you in your work?

I am a passionate educator dedicated to making a positive difference. I love working alongside colleagues and parents to support our students' growth throughout their school journey. It is rewarding to see our students become equipped with the skills and courage they need for their future.

Q: Why do you think International Women’s Day is an important occasion to celebrate?

Hopefully every year we can celebrate gains towards equality as well as recognise that there is still work to be done. I also like that it is a time to reflect and recognise the achievements of women locally and globally.

Q: This year’s theme is ‘Accelerate Action’ - what does that mean to you, both personally and professionally?

For me, this theme recognises the need for action now and brings hope that it will shape a better future for my daughters, our students and the next generation.

Q: What role does education play in accelerating change for gender equity? How can we better prepare young women for leadership?

Through education, we can challenge students to think deeply about big issues, encouraging them to explore challenges and develop meaningful solutions. As a teacher, I have led discussions on industrial relations and workplace equity, sparking robust conversations that push students to question preconceived ideas and consider new perspectives.

Beyond the classroom, I believe in the power of mentorship, particularly in inspiring young women to step into leadership roles. I have been fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my own leadership journey, starting with my high school Computing teacher.

Q: Have you faced any barriers in your career as a woman? If so, how did you navigate them?

Yes, I have. I’d like to think I navigated the barriers gracefully, but it was a journey filled with learning. After my third child, I felt my career stalled. My family had grown, my team had expanded, and balancing the increasing demands of both was a challenge. That period taught me a lot about myself as a leader, leading me to embrace a distributed leadership approach. 

During that time, I made a bold decision to resign from my job and relocate from Sydney to Regional NSW - a risk that ultimately opened new doors. When I was offered two different roles, I chose the part-time option, prioritising flexibility. That decision proved to be a turning point, as it led to another leadership opportunity under the guidance of a fantastic mentor who was committed to developing female leadership in the school. Looking back, that was a turning point for me - it showed me the value of taking risks, learning from great mentors, and being open to change.

Q: What is one action we can take today to help accelerate gender equity?

More men accessing parental leave, ironing uniforms and packing lunch boxes! Let’s foster shared responsibility.

Q: Many women experience imposter syndrome in leadership roles - have you ever felt this, and how do you manage it?

Yes, there is a growing conversation about imposter syndrome and I have experienced it myself. Now, more women and men will talk about their experience which helps identify and address the reasons why we feel that way. By normalising imposter syndrome we can work together to minimise the impact.

Q: How do you balance career growth with other aspects of life?

My family, especially my daughters, helps keep me accountable, but I don’t always achieve perfect balance. I try to maintain consistent habits to stay grounded, like my morning routine of coffee and devotion time. Last year, I realised that my hobby had shifted from playing netball to watching my children play and, when possible, umpiring their games. I’m motivated by the fact that we only get one life, and I want to make it count—by embracing what matters most and being present in the moments that really matter.

Q: Who has been a role model or mentor that has influenced your journey?

There have been lots along the way, but a pivotal mentor was Rae Doak. Rae gave me the book, “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” by Sheryl Sandberg. and both the book and Rae herself have had a lasting impact on me. Rae believed in my potential and saw my future before I did. With her guidance and the lessons from the book, she helped me find the courage to take my seat at the table.

Q: What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

Stay in the river.

Q: If you could give one key message to young women about pursuing their ambitions, what would it be?

Lead from where you are. Seek out a mentor.

Final Thoughts: What’s a book, podcast, or leader that has shaped your perspective?

The Fearless Organisation. Amy C. Edmonston.