Former sex discrimination commissioner for the Australian Human Rights Commission Kate Jenkins with guests at the Women in Business Wagga Wagga’s Women of Influence 2023 event. Photo: Peppermint Studios.
Women in Business Wagga Wagga (WBWW) were thrilled to host Kate Jenkins as part of their recent annual Women of Influence 2023 event.
The former sex discrimination commissioner for the Australian Human Rights Commission shared her insights, career achievements and experiences on gender equality and discrimination at the event at The Range Function Centre.
Following Ms Jenkins’ keynote speech WBWW vice president Gioia Gianniotis facilitated a Q&A session.
There were numerous questions from the audience pertaining to gender equality, discrimination, women in sports, business and more.
Region asked Ms Jenkins if gender discrimination could be erased in a developed country like Australia and she said, “It can be eliminated”.
“I do know that it’s a big project, but I feel in terms of Western countries, there’s still privilege, power, inequality and differentials … and they provide the context for discrimination,” Ms Jenkins said.
“Even in developed countries, people are not all equal.
“I do think it can be [eliminated] … laws are important and I think social engagements in the issues, workplace, sports and in all other settings can make a difference.
Ms Jenkins said she enjoyed meeting the group of Wagga women and men.
“It’s been amazing. They were engaged so it has been terrific,” she said.
Women in Business Wagga secretary and Collective Position director Rachel Sweeney said Ms Jenkins had an important message for the community about creating an equal work environment.
“Ms Jenkins was so generous with her time and her knowledge, everyone commented on how approachable she was,” Ms Sweeney said.
WBWW vice president Gioia Gianniotis facilitated the Q&A session with Kate Jenkins. Photo: Peppermint Studios.
“Wagga Women in Business wants to create a platform for our members to gain access to inspiring women who are doing amazing things in their careers.
“Ms Jenkins met that brief – she provides advice to the highest office in the country as well as so many top end of town boardrooms.
“We were thrilled to provide access to the same knowledge and advice to our members and the broader community,” she said.
Ms Sweeney said her biggest takeaway from the talk was that change took action and the action was available to everyone.
“I know that my colleagues at Women in Business will be considering this advice,” she said.
“We had some great feedback both on the high quality of the event and also how amazing and available Kate Jenkins was to our attendees.”
Ms Sweeney thanked her sponsors for helping with the event.
The event was attended by Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr, Aunty Cheryl Penrith, Albury City mayor Kylie King and Cr Julia Ham.
Loading ...
