Darebin Council’s Cr Emily Dimitriadis hosted a very successful International Women’s Day event, with the Fairfield Bowls Club full despite the hot weather.
There were about 100 people present and a very large presence of Greek Australian women.
Former Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos spoke about the significance of the day and encouraged women, including migrant and refugee women, to be heard by decision-makers so they could have greater political influence.
In speaking about her own grandmothers who were denied an education, she emphasised that education was the key to achieving greater gender equality around the world. She encouraged women to support each other, to be positive role models and to mentor young people.
Ms Mikakos also reflected on how Victoria was incredibly diverse with almost half its population having a parent born overseas, but that was not reflected in our parliamentarians, councillors, board members and CEOs.
A panel of speakers participated in the discussion and included the Chair of Safe + Equal, Maria Dimopoulos, Afghani football player Mursal Sadat, author and entrepreneur, Hana Assafiri and VMC Commissioner, Dr Judy Tang.
More than $1,000 was also raised on the day for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
