Rebecca Bullen Zonta President, Elizabeth, Jessie Wong, Sarah and Telesia
  • 08 March 2023

Marsden celebrates International Women's Day

Around the world people are having meaningful conversations about why equal opportunities aren't enough, and why equal isn't always fair. We all start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action. Today is International Women's Day and a chance for us to show support, raise awareness and help promote an inclusive world.

 

Hosted by Jan Tinetti, Minister for Women in association with the Zonta Club of Wellington, this year's International Women's Day breakfast at Parliament was attended by Principal Paula Wells, Community Development Director Martine Foster, Deputy HG Sarah and Year 13 student Elizabeth. Old Girl, Rebecca Bullen is Zonta President, and another Marsden connection was parent and MC for the Breakfast, Tupe Solomon-Tanoa'i, who was accompanied by her daughter Telesia Year 11. 

 

The inspirational keynote speakers were:

  • Her Worship Tory Whanau, Mayor of Wellington;
  • Ms Paula Tesoriero MNZM, Chief Executive, Whaikaha, Ministry of Disabled People;
  • and Marsden Old Girl, Jessie Wong - Founder and Director at Yu Mei. Jessie was named winner of the business and enterprise category in the 2021 Women of Influence awards. 
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How great for our Year 12 and 13 students enjoying breakfast back at Marsden to hear from one of their own via the livestream from Parliament. Jessie was inspirational in her storytelling that connected to the themes of empowerment. Her message about finding ways to re-write the rules, to show courage and perseverance to achieve your goals resonated with our students.

 

Mayor Tory Whanau’s enthusiasm, engagement and honesty about the ‘hard stuff’ was a reminder about different kinds of leadership styles. ‘You can tell that she loves her job’ was one comment.

 

The message is clear when we embrace equity, we embrace diversity and inclusion. Collectively, we can all forge positive change. It was a great day to feel the power of women looking out for each other and inspiring each other. #EmbraceEquity

 

Watch the replay of the livestream here.