This year for International Women’s Day, we decided to interview 3 women of our Kisharon Family to find out what IWD, and its theme #GiveToGain, means to them.
Between them they support, contribute, orchestrate and make vital decisions.
Judith Flacks-Leigh, Director of Marketing, Communications & External Affairs
Question 1: What does IWD and its theme #GivetoGain, mean to you?
If I’m honest, I’m not a huge fan of theming International Women’s Day. Themes can feels limiting, although I suppose the point is to highlight various issues and give them dedicated space to be explored and discussed. Unfortunately, there are still too many areas where progress has not been made and spaces where women are not celebrated, that fall out of the limelight on this day because it’s not the right theme. But this year’s theme, “Give to Gain” feels like it’s quite a Jewish one. Rabbi Hillel teaches us that “If I am only for myself who am I?”, which can be interpreted as giving to others as a way of also enriching yourself, and I do quite like that as a general ethos to live by where you can.
Question 2: Which women inspire you the most?
Lots of women inspire me daily. Family, friends, colleagues, politicians, celebrities, the women we support at Kisharon Langdon.
I truly believe that women who find the courage to live lives in ways that are unapologetic and authentic are deserving of the title of ‘inspirational’. But that comes in so many forms, and women who carry so much behind a mask, who do not have the privilege of being able to live a life in that way, are also inspirational. They are a testament to the often quiet power and strength that so many women have.
Question 3: What’s a small but powerful way individuals can contribute to gender equity every day?
Think about it, talk about it, challenge it where you see it isn’t happening. You never know what positive avenues can open up by sometimes just starting a conversation. That goes for any kind of inequality, whether it’s gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality or disability.
Question 4: What’s one gift that you hope to pass on to the next generation of women?
To feel confident in being able to carry themselves in a way where nothing is hidden or changed for the worse because of their gender.
Georgia Rami, Support Worker
Question 1: What does IWD and its theme #GivetoGain, mean to you?
To me, it means supporting and uplifting each other. When we help and support each other, we all learn, grow, gain strength and confidence.
Question 2: Which women inspire you the most?
My mother and my sister inspire me the most because of their strength and love they have. They remind me every day of the power that woman have.
Question 3: What’s a small but powerful way individuals can contribute to gender equity every day?
Respecting each other, listening to each other and supporting one another in everyday life.
Question 4: What’s one gift that you hope to pass on to the next generation of women?
Love, kindness, respect for one another, and the confidence to believe in themselves.
Question 5: Has there been a time when giving support to someone else led to unexpected growth for you?
Through my work I’ve learned patience, empathy, and understanding. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from the people I support, and I hope they learn from me too. Their strength inspires me and has also taught me to be strong, because no matter the challenges they face in life, they never give up. As support staff, we spend many hours together, and I truly believe the relationships we build can truly have a powerful and positive influence on each other’s lives
Michelle Grossman, Volunteer
Question 1: What does IWD and its theme #GivetoGain, mean to you?
It is a time to reflect on past achievements, accept responsibilities, and inspire the future generation
Question 2: Which women inspire you the most?
My three daughters and Talya, the woman that I support.
Question 4: What’s one gift that you hope to pass on to the next generation of women? Value your self-worth
Question 5: Has there been a time when giving support to someone else led to unexpected growth for you?
When I started volunteering it was primarily to give of my time to offer support. I have learnt that when you shift the focus of your own personal daily stresses in to helping and supporting someone else, it gives your own life a greater sense of meaning, purpose and gratitude. You can develop new skills or build on ones you already have.
Across our community, the theme #GiveToGain resonates deeply. Whether it’s through support work, volunteering, or leadership, we see that when we uplift others, we grow ourselves.
