International Womens Day 2024

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you? 

We don’t yet live in communities, or work in organisations where every person, regardless of their background or identity, can fully participate and thrive. Inclusion is the critical element in making this a reality – not just for women, but all people.   

Diversity and equality need inclusion. We can have all the right DEI policies and approaches, where women and diverse people have their perspectives and experiences acknowledged, but inclusion means ensuring we have a culture and a workplace where these same people are comfortable participating but more importantly are encouraged to do so.   

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities? 

There are so many ways to actively contribute, many of which are simple actions to build into our days. If you hear someone say something inappropriate, call them out. If we are sending out a proposal, apply a gender lens to ensure it reflects the client or stakeholders we are serving. If we are organising team meetings, factor in those with care commitments in the early morning or afternoon. Little actions can go a long way.  

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?  

 48.5% of Cor Cordis staff are women. Achieving gender balance in our workforce is an essential step towards promoting diversity and inclusion. Our National Women’s Forum is a platform designed to create connections and collaboration among our wider network through regular training sessions and networking events.

My view is DEI is not a nice to have, it’s a business imperative. Our people demand it, and we will lose talent over it, our clients expect it and work will be lost on the basis if DEI is lacking, and our communities in which we operate in also want to see it given our stakeholders are diverse.

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On International Women’s Day, what message or advice you can pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality? 

My entire philosophy is that people ultimately want to work with people they like. Being your genuine and authentic self is the way to go, and the rest will follow.  

Answering from an insolvency perspective, I strongly believe that no gender is better suited than another. Women and diverse people bring something different to the table – and that diversity of thinking and approach is ultimately what makes a stronger team overall.  

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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start? 

For those starting out on a DEI journey, education is key – the Diversity Council of Australia, along with the Workplace Gender Equality Agency are great resources. Within Cor Cordis, the National Women’s Forum are also great ways to become an advocate. Or for those still unsure – get involved and come along to events focused on DEI and build an awareness and understanding over time.  

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

To me, #InspireInclusion is centred on the importance in recognising the contributions women in all aspects of society make, and continue to include and celebrate in our lives and workplaces women from all backgrounds, experiences and identities.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

As individuals, no matter our role or position, we can actively contribute by committing to always being open to learning, growing and developing our understanding of inclusivity.

Whether that contribution is from undertaking further education, changing your behaviours, having a diverse representation in leadership or encouraging practices that support diversity and inclusion, recognising that your personal experience is not the same as everyone’s, and promoting the different perspectives others and what they can bring to the table will benefit all workplaces and our communities.

How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

We strive and champion to be an inclusive and supportive workplace at all levels, and recognise and encourage the differing perspectives that each of our people bring no matter their background. Some of our initiatives include:

• Our National Women’s Forum
• Our regular support and participation in industry events around International Women’s Day and others promoting inclusion year-round, and
• Our recognition and support of many senior women in our practice, and commitment to growing the number of women in leadership positions.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice you can pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

Believe in yourself and your abilities. Everyone has some element of uniqueness. Never be afraid to speak up and assert your worth. Establishing a successful career requires you to grow and develop not only professionally and but personally as well. Surrounding yourself with supportive allies and mentors who champion diversity and inclusion is a key cog in achieving this.

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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

The best way to become an advocate is to talk to people who you consider already are. Find out their perspectives and what they value and consider is important as an advocate.  It’s not a case of one size fits all, but using those perspectives work out which parts best fit with who you are to allow you to contribute with your skills and life experiences.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

To me it means bringing people from diverse backgrounds together in a positive and supporting environment with the common aim of providing equal access and opportunities for all. It is important to me becauseI consider myself an advocate for minorities and want to see leadership cohorts that reflect the community that those individuals serve and represent.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

Individuals can actively contribute by:

• Supporting women-led initiatives through volunteering, sponsorship, etc.
• Recognising the achievements of individuals to encourage and celebrate people that might not otherwise promote themselves.
• Reviewing workplace policies to ensure that they are inclusive and up to date. Also having regard to the recent Respect at Work legislation where employers have a positive duty to prevent certain discriminatory conduct.
• When in attendance at meetings, invite and make space for each person to have their says o that not only a few people dominate the conversation.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

Cor Cordis demonstrates this by:

• Actively interviewing and hiring candidates from diverse backgrounds.
• Organising social activities that everyone can take part in and organising volunteer days to give back to the community.
• Creating a National Women’s Forum which has allowed me to connect with my senior female colleagues from other offices to share ideas and support each other.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

My key tips for young people establishing their career:

• If it won’t matter in five years, then don’t spend more than five minutes worrying about it. Each mistake is a learning curve, not a failure.
• Don’t eat lunch alone. Lunchtime is a prime networking opportunity and success at work is equal parts who you know and what you know.
• Don’t constantly compare yourself to those around you as you are running your own race. Success in life is not defined by your job title or what car you drive.
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

The first step is for DEI advocates to educate themselves on diversity topics such as gender equality, discrimination and unconscious bias. They can then start having conversations and talk openly about those topics and diversity and inclusion goals. DEI advocates can also proactively support inclusion by taking part in relevant committees, attending events and asking their colleagues about what diversity and inclusion means to them.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

The theme #InspireInclusion highlights the importance of a society where every individual, regardless of gender, feels valued, respected, and included. When we inspire inclusion, we not only empower women but also create a more just and equitable world for everyone. It's about breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and creating environments where everyone can reach their full potential.

This theme is important to me because it reminds us to embrace and celebrate our differences. Ultimately, inspiring inclusion is a reminder to create a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of who they are or where they come from.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

We can foster a more inclusive environment by challenging biases and stereotypes through speaking up against discrimination and advocating for greater inclusion and gender equity. We can also educate ourselves about diversity and equity as well as understanding and recognising different perspectives and experiences.

We should lead by example, demonstrating inclusive behaviours and attitudes in our interactions with others. By taking these actions, we contribute to creating environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and included.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

I think the key area where Cor Cordis demonstrates its commitment to inclusion is in recognising the contributions women make to the firm, which is demonstrated by the number of women in senior leadership positions. Cor Cordis have inclusive policies and benefits, such as flexible work arrangements. Regular feedback also ensures that the voices and experiences of all employees are heard and valued.

The firm ensures there is a sense of equality and belonging for all employees by creating inclusive environments and networks, as well as providing training and educational opportunities to raise awareness about diversity, equity, and inclusion issues among its employees.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

I’d like to emphasise that your voice matters, your contributions are valuable, and your presence makes a difference. Keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and striving for a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.

For young women, believe in your capabilities and embrace your uniqueness. Confidence in yourself is key and something that all women need to remember. Seek out mentors and networks to guide and encourage you. Remember to advocate for yourself and others, fostering a culture of inclusion and equality.
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

Becoming a DEI advocate involves education around diversity, equity, and inclusion issues as well as getting involved in DEI initiatives and speaking up against discrimination and injustice. DEI advocates support inclusive policies and practices and use their voice to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By committing to ongoing learning and action, DEI advocates play a crucial role in fostering diverse environments and greater inclusion.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

To me #InspireInclusion means creating a supportive environment for all staff, and leading by actively demonstrating, on a daily basis, that all staff are valued and respected.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

By treating others the way that we would like to be treated.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

We promote awareness of this issue, educate and train our people on unconscious bias. We have policies that encourage inclusive behaviours.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

My advice would be to respect and value your personal strengths, seek support where you need it and work hard.  
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

Start by modelling the behaviours that you want to advocate.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

An inclusive culture begins with the behaviour we demonstrate towards each other every day. It’s not just paid lip service.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

Respect others and treat others the way you wish to be treated was what my mother drilled into me.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

At Cor Cordis, individuals' views are valued.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

Careers are hard and resilience is essential. Those that rely purely upon politics to advance rarely succeed. Roll up your sleeves and get on with it. Above all, find a mentor to advance your cause and provide you with the experience for growth and advancement.
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

Set the example for others on DEI with your own behaviour.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

#InspireInclusion involves advocating for inclusivity, consideration and open-mindedness in the workplace and wider community. Being inclusive changes the dynamic of a workforce.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

Embrace inclusive language and behaviour. Encourage involvement in work and extracurricular activities, even where traditional norms may not have included them.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

Recognising and celebrating International Women’s Day holds significant value for our firm, ensuring it remains prominent in our collective consciousness. We are committed to promoting awareness to our staff and wider network. It’s great to see our partners and senior colleagues support DEI initiatives.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

People are there to support you. Embrace the perspective that the world is actively working in your favour for success but understand that this mindset originates from within yourself. Regardless of your position or circumstances, how you perceive and value yourself greatly influences how others will treat you.

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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

Talk to your managers and peers. Leverage off your networks, whether it’s your neighbouring colleagues or your partners. Don’t stop at the first bump in the road or first “no”. Maintain persistence; there’s always someone who can help.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

To me inclusion extends beyond a mere invitation to the table it entails having a voice at that table and feeling that your input holds value. Inspiring inclusion is important because it fosters diversity, equity and belonging, which in turn leads to innovation, creativity and a more harmonious society.

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

Individuals, irrespective of gender can actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities by:

• advocating for equal opportunities
• challenging stereotypes and biases
• prompting diversity initiatives
• listening to and amplifying marginalised voices and,
• fostering respectful and supportive interactions with others.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

Despite being with the firm for just four months, I've already engaged in diversity and inclusion training. The welcoming atmosphere here makes it seem like I've been part of the team for years. Cor Cordis has a National Women’s Forum which is dedicated to connecting women in the industry and offering staff development and networking opportunities. Getting involved in this committee has been rewarding, and I'm excited about the initiatives we're planning for the year ahead.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and ensure your voice receives the recognition it deserves. Seek guidance from a prominent female leader in your field; many industry associations provide mentoring opportunities like Women in Insolvency and Restructuring Victoria (WIRV) and CA. These initiatives offer valuable connections with individuals beyond your workplace who can support your development and challenge gender norms.
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

Become a member of your industry association such as WIRV or your organisations committee like the Cor Cordis National Women’s Forum (if you firm doesn’t have anything like this why not propose it). This provides an excellent opportunity to connect with individuals who share your passion for advocating diversity, equity, and inclusion. If you observe biases occurring, don't hesitate to speak out. Similarly, if you have ideas on how your organisation can enhance its DEI efforts, make sure to express your opinions, as this contributes to collective growth.

What does the International Women’s Day theme, #InspireInclusion mean to you? Why is it important to you?

To me, #InspireInclusion involves leading by example to inspire others to establish a society which values and strives for the inclusion for women in all facets of society.  

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How can individuals, regardless of gender, actively contribute to fostering a more inclusive environment in their workplaces and communities?

Leading by example, including:

• recruiting, retaining and developing female talent.
• showcasing respect for diverse perspectives and actively seeking input from all team members.
• celebrating and embracing the differences within the team, fostering a culture where everyone feels valued.
• encouraging an atmosphere where team members feel safe expressing their opinions without fear of judgment or reprisal.
• ensuring that all team members have equal access to opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and advancement.

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How does Cor Cordis demonstrate its commitment to inclusion to ensure there is a sense of equality and belonging?

Cor Cordis recruits and develops female talent, strives and focuses on equality in the workplace and encourages women to participate and take leadership roles in industry groups.

On International Women’s Day, what message or advice can you pass on to anyone, especially young women trying to establish their careers or anyone striving for greater inclusion and gender equality?

Don’t settle for employers who don’t value your contributions or celebrate your achievements. Be true to yourself whilst breaking the ceiling for those that follow!
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What advice do you have for those who want to be DEI advocates and aren’t sure how to start?

My advice is to focus on your DEI shadow at the start.  Are you a person who advocates and promotes DEI? How does your choices impact and influence those around you? Lead by example.