Siya Gera, one of the leader's for Abbey Park HS' International Women's Day Breakfast, outlines the planning process and importance of International Women's Day below:
Can you describe the planning process?
The planning process for our event involved dedication and teamwork by the Young Women in Leadership Council. From the very start, we organized ourselves into teams, each with a specific focus to ensure every aspect of the event was planned and executed.
Our outreach team worked hard to secure sponsorships and partnerships. Simultaneously, another team communicated with our school staff, ensuring coordination and support from our educational community.
The marketing team came up with various strategies to promote the event through social media, posters and announcements. Additionally, the YWIL council was responsible for the aesthetic appeal of the venue, we made sure that the cafeteria had an inviting atmosphere.
Throughout our planning meetings in February, we engaged in discussions about the significance of hosting the annual International Women’s Day Breakfast and strategized on how to achieve our goal as a club.
Together, we planned and executed an event that not only met but exceeded our expectations. We are incredibly proud of what we accomplished together.
Was the event successful?
The event was a definite success, with a genuine feeling of unity and respect filling the room. The discussions were incredibly enriching, and it was truly powerful to hear young girls confidently expressing their thoughts and questions, while experienced women provided insightful responses. I think everyone left having gained new knowledge and feeling empowered, which was exactly what we aimed for with the event.
Why is International Women's Day important to you?
International Women's Day is important to me because it symbolizes the ongoing fight for equality. It celebrates the achievements of women, past and present, while keeping in mind the challenges that still exist. It's a platform to advocate for women's rights and amplify their voices. Personally, it inspires me to continue working towards a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone.
What do you hope event participants learned or took away from the event?
I hope that event participants left feeling empowered by the stories and experiences shared during the event motivating them to keep advocating for equality.
Why was it important to hold the International Women's Day Breakfast?
It is important to hold the International Women’s Day Breakfast since it celebrates the achievements of women and is a platform for important conversations to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges they face. It is especially important for young girls in high school to see themselves being represented and to be inspired by the stories of women already established in their careers. By showcasing diverse role models in different fields such as justice, social work and education, the event offered opportunities of networking and mentorship. This event empowers young women to envision their own paths to success for the future.