International Women's Day

International Women's Day Breakfast

International Women's Day highlights the importance of women not only in our schooling community, but in the everyday lives of our students, teachers and fellow peers. This year Cecil Hills High School decided to commemorate these very women by hosting a special breakfast, recognising how far we've come towards gender equality and also how far we have left to go. 

With the help of our devoted SRC leadership team and the generosity of the school's hospitality students, our school was able to host the breakfast event as a commemoration of International Women's Day. Opened by our very own school captain Jessica Narvazia, Jessica accentuates the significance of the event stating that “It is important as a school community that we take the time to stop and reflect on the value of women in today’s society.” We were lucky enough to acknowledge the hard work of the various diligent women of our schooling community, as well having the honour to host multiple special guests including Diane Vella, Marianne Siokos, Dale Palmer, and guest speaker Caroline Mackaness. 

Titled ‘Inspirational Women in Power’, Ms Mackaness’ speech emphasised the various  roles and significant work she, and numerous women alike, are part of.  As a leading figure in the work of the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs, Ms Mackaness’ service also supports the ANZAC Memorial, commemorating the Great War and acknowledging the suffering of all individuals - more specifically the children, families and women affected.  Our esteemed guest speaker emphasised the importance of the project and how to this day, it is considered one of the most significant that she has led and its ultimate success. 

In addition to this, Ms Mackaness also discussed the various programs she, as a successful woman, has led. This includes the 2016 PAMS and its remarkable scholarship program, and the Premier’s ANZAC Memorial Scholarship Tour, where she met Cecil Hills High School's very own Ms Stephanie Haskett, recognising her leadership role as a Head Teacher within our schooling community. 

Ms Mackaness beautifully wrapped up her speech, stating  “I have been fortunate in building a diversity of experience and have always welcomed different perspectives from people with different backgrounds and with different skills and knowledge that help inform and enrich outcomes for our community” 

The International Women's Day Breakfast was a success in commemorating the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women. With a purple ribbon pinned to our chests, Cecil Hills High School recognises the importance of women not only in our educational community, but also in the daily lives of our students, teachers, and peers. 

by Ariyan Said

Student Representative Council

on behalf of the Year 12 Class of 2022