This year's United Nations International Women’s Day theme is "Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress,” underscoring the vital role of women's economic empowerment in creating a gender-equal world.
When women have equal opportunities to earn, learn and lead, entire communities flourish.
In the university context, addressing economic investment in women and girls is pivotal for achieving gender equality and cultivating an environment that is innovative, inclusive, and conducive to growth.
As we celebrate the day, some of the lecturers in the Faculty share their perspectives on inclusivity. Read their responses below:.
Dr Chloe Bryant – School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
“I encourage inclusivity by creating a sense of community where all students, regardless of personal factors, can feel safe and supported to learn. I also educate healthcare students about the importance of challenging harmful normative assumptions which can impede equal access and opportunity.”
Dr Viana Vuvan – School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
“As a lecturer, inclusivity means creating a supportive environment where every student’s voice is heard, respected and valued. I promote inclusivity by promoting a classroom culture of mutual respect, actively seeking out diverse viewpoints and providing support and accommodations to ensure every student can succeed”
Dr Carmel Fleming- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work
"Teaching in health and ageing, inclusivity means promoting the contribution of feminist scholars in these fields. Exploring topics like the gendered nature of health research or how discrimination and disadvantage can intersect/accumulate across the lifespan for women helps students understand the need for inclusivity in both theory and practice."
Professor Lauren Ball- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences
“This International Women’s Day, I’m inspired by conversations beyond binary gender thinking. By shining a spotlight on inclusion, we can support all people in contributing to a shared vision of a prosperous future.”
Dr Stacey Parker- School of Psychology
“To me inclusivity means creating a safe environment where every student feels valued. In my classroom, I promote inclusivity by showcasing women's contributions to science and ensuring every student feels empowered and equal. It's when we feel we can be our unique selves that we truly feel we belong.”
Associate Professor Emma Beckman- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences
"For success in any team or organisation, having diversity of thought and voice in the room is crucial. I've been in too many rooms where there weren't enough women, or the women who were there were not in strong positions to share their voice. If we are going to have the best decisions, the best outcomes, I want to see real equity- not just in numbers in leadership positions -but in diversity (including women with disabilities, from various backgrounds, across all demographics)."
