International Women's Day 2023

On Tuesday, 14th March it was a privilege to be invited to Bonnyrigg High School for International Women’s Day. International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global event celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is a day when women are recognised and acknowledged for their hard work in everything they do.

The theme for International Women’s Day 2023 was ‘Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future'.

We were extremely fortunate to be able to speak to Mr Bryce, the principal of Bonnyrigg High School and the leadership team, which included the school captains and Student Representative Council leaders. The special guest for the occasion was Ms Dai Le MP, our Independent Member for Fowler. We were very grateful to meet her and take photographs.

To start the event, two indigenous students gave the Acknowledgement of Country to show respect and recognise the traditional custodians of the land. Afterwards, Ms Harris, a Deputy Principal at Bonnyrigg High School, addressed the assembly.

Next, a Year 11 student proudly sang the National Anthem and then Ms Le addressed the assembly. She spoke about her childhood and what it was like being a refugee from Vietnam. Travelling by boat from her home country, Ms Le had to firstly stay in a refugee camp for 12 months before getting permission to go to Australia. She had many interesting stories to share about how she became involved in politics and the importance of empowering yourself as a female.  

Another Year 11 student gave a wonderful performance singing the song, 'This Girl is on Fire' by Alicia Keys. The lyrics embrace and inspire women as 'to be on fire' means to be unbeatable. The songs message is there are no circumstances in life that this girl cannot overcome.

Ms Dai Le, Ms Allford, Deputy Principal, Ms Wong and Ms Spiteri, classroom teachers, were invited to the stage to participate in a Q&A panel session. Prior to the day, students from Bonnyrigg High School, created a list of questions to be asked and answered by each panel member. Questions asked included: what is like to be a woman, teacher, mother, wife etc. and what is the amount of responsibilities you have each day as a woman.

After the presentation, primary school leaders were escorted to a classroom to participate in a Kahoot. We were given a brochure about International Women's Day and its content focused on honouring  and celebrating women who have led the way through their innovative creations. We then made origami tulips, which we were encouraged to give to a female who has made a significant contribution or impact in our life.

We then finished off the event with a morning tea in the hall, with primary and high school student leaders, teachers and Mr Bryce. It was a pleasure to be invited to this very enjoyable and educational experience. We learnt so much from the Bonnyrigg High School Leadership Team and the presentation hosted by the high school.