INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY
The theme behind this year’s International Women’s Day is #ChooseToChallenge, and it’s a talking point idea that motivated our team to come together to discuss the importance of mentoring, work-life balance and how best to strategise fashion’s way forward in equality.
Here is a few thoughts from our team.
PRUE - General Manager, Marketing & Digital
What Does International Women’s Day mean to you?
There is a lot of discussion about whether women need an official day to celebrate our progress, and acknowledge the shoulders of the women on which we stand. Personally, I think it’s a time to be inspired by the various women in my life, express my gratitude for their various achievements and remind my three daughters how incredibly fortunate they are to live in a world where their female heroes are celebrated.
What does being a strong woman mean to you?
I truly hope that I give out strong woman vibes to the other women who I get to share my life with. I want to give back, support, inspire and also fun to be around. Having said that, I am sometimes in two minds about questions like this because it’s also totally acceptable to not be a strong woman all the time. Vulnerability has its strength, too.
MICHAELA – General Manager Merchandise & Wholesale
What do you like to wear to feel more empowered?
Being empowered for me is being able to do what I do with freedom – and that can be different for me depending on what day of the week it is. I feel most empowered when I’m wearing something or using an accessory that I know has been designed with heart. I particularly feel like that when I wear Oroton as I know a group of talented women has designed my piece with very specific care and attention.
What is an action or decision you’re most proud of?
Proving to myself that you can have children, be a loving mother and wife and still be very good at your job. I’ve made a conscious decision to embrace the challenges, be vocal and honest about the realities of being a working mother, in the hope that I can inspire future women to also take it on and keep their ambitions alive.
PIA – Head of Accessories Design
Name a woman you most look up to:
So many! Mostly I look up to my mum Ivonny, she’s an amazing woman and a really strong creative force in my life. I also look up to our design team, a group of amazing women who are all at different stages in their life journey, and it’s really special to me how we all come together every day to create and grow as people, I look up to them for that.
What is an action or decision you’re most proud of?
I’m really proud of deciding to move from The Netherlands to Australia at 23. This changed my life in so many ways, it was a brave decision in some ways, and I’m really grateful for the experiences I’m having as a result.
ALEX – Buyer & Wholesale Coordinator
What were your hopes and dreams as a child?
Since I was young I’ve always dreamed of being surrounded by fashion, the arts and creative people. So I feel very lucky to be immersed in that now and to be constantly surrounded by intelligent and creative women in the industry.
What do you like to wear to feel more empowered?
I always feel most empowered when I’m wearing a beautiful suit jacket. My slightly oversized man-style blazer is my go-to piece at the moment. It polishes any look whether it be a casual or dressy outfit and, most importantly, it is comfortable.
ERICA – Ecommerce Manager
What does a strong woman mean to you?
A strong woman isn’t afraid to share her opinions and speak her truth. Her strength is confident humility, paired with faith and passion.
How does the way you dress change the way you feel?
Clothing allows us to adjust, shift, evolve or be whoever we want to be at any given moment. When I'm dressed in a simple or comfortable outfit is when I excel both personally and professionally. A pair of jeans and an oversized shirt is my weekly go-to.
NIKITA - Designer
What Does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a day to recognise women’s equality and celebrate women’s achievements. It is a chance to reflect on our strengths and opportunities for growth to better empower future generations.
What does being a strong woman mean to you?
A strong woman to me is a leader of her community. She has integrity and is respectful of people of all cultures. She is driven and passionate in elevating the people around her, and she is a loyal and caring friend.
RHIANNON – Head of HR
Name a woman you most look up to:
So many! I truly admire women who are able to take on influential roles in our society and be agents of change – Michelle Obama, Julia Gillard, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Malala Yousafzai and so many others who are creating a better future for the next generation. And also my mum who is the strongest and most compassionate human I know.
What is an action or decision you’re most proud of?
I’m lucky enough in my role to take actions or make decisions all the time that I am proud of – creating opportunities for people, counselling through challenging situations, and supporting our leadership team to make decisions about the future of the Oroton brand.
