Honouring Women Across Our Community

By Natalie Booley, CatholicCare Tasmania

Staff from CatholicCare Tasmania and the Archdiocese of Hobart came together on Tuesday 10 March to mark International Women’s Day, creating a space to reflect on progress, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and celebrate the vital contributions of women across the organisation.

This year’s global theme, ‘Balance the Scales’, invited communities worldwide to reaffirm a shared commitment to ensuring that every woman and girl is safe, heard, and free to shape her own future. It was a timely reminder of the responsibility we all share in building workplaces and communities grounded in dignity, respect, and opportunity.

A live panel discussion, hosted in the Hobart office and streamed to all CatholicCare Tasmania and Archdiocese of Hobart sites, formed the heart of the celebration. The panel featured Janaya Lawson, Jo McLennan, Kirsten Free, Christina Augustine and Bosede, who generously shared their experiences, insights, and perspectives. Their stories reflected the resilience, leadership, and compassion that women bring to social and community services every day.

Together, the panel explored themes including creating safe and inclusive environments, leading with authenticity, supporting and uplifting other women, and building cultures where everyone feels valued. The discussion also offered thoughtful guidance for emerging leaders, encouraging confidence, courage, and connection. These honest conversations prompted reflection and sparked meaningful dialogue among staff across the organisation.

Following the panel, teams gathered over morning tea to continue the conversation and strengthen relationships. It was a simple but powerful opportunity to connect, listen, and recognise the collective impact of women working side by side.

International Women’s Day provided a moment to pause and celebrate the many ways women contribute to our mission. It also served as a call to action, encouraging us to keep working together to create safe, welcoming, and hope-filled communities where everyone can thrive.