Women in Law Event hosted by QUT Law Society

Last night I gave an address at the QUT Law Society Women in Law event in my capacity as Vice-President of WLAQ.  It was held at Old Government House and over 50 students attended.

The QUT Law Society did a fantastic job as hosts and the event was inspiring.  The Chief Justice gave an address and spoke of the significant milestones that women lawyers have made in Queensland's history.

Following this, I gave the address below and spent some time with my fellow MinterEllison colleagues talking to the students about transitioning from student to lawyer.

Congratulations to QUT Law Society on hosting such a wonderful event.

 

I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the QUT Law Society in hosting tonight's event, along with our Chief Justice who has provided another inspirational speech, which I am sure you will all reflect on in years to come.

I am here tonight in my capacity as one of the Vice-President's of the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland, and to provide you with background knowledge about our organisation and our plans for you and the future for women in Queensland's legal profession. 

WLAQ was founded in 1978 by Leneen Forde AC and ten female lawyers including current President of the Land Court, Carmel MacDonald, Una Prentice, The Honourable Justice Margaret McMurdo President of the Court of Appeal and Noela L'Estrange former CEO of Queensland Law Society.

Past Presidents include Deputy Chief Magistrate Leanne O'Shea, Judge Sally Purdon-Sully, Magistrate Kay Ryan and Justice Jenny Hogan.  Her Honour, Justice Mullins served as Treasurer for 7 years.

We are an organisation created by the leading women lawyers in Queensland, and  continued to be run by women who are as equally as passionate about ensuring that the interests of women in the legal profession are protected.  It is at this time that I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to the Chief Justice for her address delivered at the 100th anniversary of the admission of Agnes McWhinney. 

The address contained a comprehensive overview of the history of women in Queensland's legal profession, commencing with Agnes' admission on 7 December 1915, and progressing to what the Chief Justice described as a particularly important first which occurred in 2015, one that was a very significant milestone for women, and a position she had doubted a woman would ever hold.  This milestone was the appointment of Sue Brown QC as the first female Vice-President of the Bar Association of Queensland.  This being WLAQ's first opportunity to publically acknowledge the Chief Justice following this address, on behalf of WLAQ I would like to acknowledge another significant milestone of 2015, that being the Chief Justice's appointment as Queensland's first woman Chief Justice.  I know I speak on behalf of all present tonight when I say thank you, not only for your contribution to women in the profession, but to the profession as a whole.

I would also like to echo your comments, that we can dare to dream of a woman President of the Bar Association, with the Law Society having achieved this milestone some 30 years prior with the election of Elizabeth Nosworthy. 

Some would ask, why in 2016 do we need an organisation such as WLAQ?  I do not propose to recite statistics, but want to emphasis the significant disparity between the ratio of female to male law graduates to the ratio of female to male QCs, Special Counsel and Partners.  The profession is loosing key women lawyers post 5 to 8 years admission, and adjustments to what used to be considered general practice for a lawyer, must be made.

At our last AGM we had 434 members, of which 147 were students.  WLAQ recognises the importance of ensuring our student membership is well represented and maintains an open relationship with all of the Universities so that we can work collaboratively in addressing issues that you face as you transition from student to lawyer.

Last year we released our 2015-2018 Strategic Plan, a first for WLAQ and an initiative I am proud to be apart of.  In this, we made a firm commitment to provide networking, educational and mentoring opportunities for our members.  I am pleased to report that we have made progress with this objective and our 2015/2016 Mentoring Program saw a significant increase in the number of mentee applications, that is applications by female law students requesting mentorship.  As students, this is where you will see the most benefits of being a member of WLAQ.

It is important that as you progress in your career you remain open to discussing your ideas and issues with those more senior than you.  It is through these conversations that we can recognise any systemic issues that may be presenting as barriers to your progression and assist you in finding solutions.  I acknowledge the reports of the unbalanced proportion of available positions to the number of law graduates.  However, when we look at your career progression, it is important that impediments to you staying in the legal profession are known so that, when we look at the other end of the spectrum, that is your movement into leadership positions, WLAQ as an organisation, can continue to do what it can to facilitate disruption and work towards equality.  It is now that I call upon the male law students in the room to commit to being a champion of change and look up to role models such as Dominic McGann.

Moving forward, I would encourage you to support each other as you graduate, when you are admitted, and as you progress through the ranks in your career.  It is important that we work together and have a support network amongst our peers.  WLAQ events are frequently attended by past Presidents and the executive, who often retell stories of their recent catch ups.   It is now that you will create friendships that are the foundation of your career relationships.

With that, I would like to extend an invitation to you all to attend the Una Prentice Awards, which are being held on 19 April 2016 at the College of Law.  The Awards celebrate the top female law student of each University, made possible thanks to the generous bequest of Una Prentice, the first female law graduate.

Thank you again to Harriette and the QUT Law Society for asking WLAQ to attend tonight and I wish you all the best with your career.

WLAQ Inter-Professional Evening 2016

It was absolutely amazing to host the 2016 WLAQ Inter-Professional evening last night.  This year, we invited Dr Kirstin Ferguson as our guest speaker.

Below is a recap of my introduction for Kirstin given in my capacity as Vice-President.

Andre Cois Photography 

Following on from Amelia's welcome, thank you all for attending tonight.

When I was looking for some inspiration on what I wanted my message to be for tonight's introduction, I came across an article in Women's Agenda today confirming that a portion of the cost of our work handbag may be tax deductible.  I completely digressed from the task and found myself on the Burberry website contemplating a rather expensive purchase.

I didn't go through with the purchase because my attention was diverted, correctly, back to the issue at hand.  Why are we, in 2016 still having to contemplate different arrangements for men and women.  There has never been any questions or debate raised over a men's ability to claim for his briefcase.  This is an issue I struggle with.  The ideas of feminism, along with the negative connotations post 1903 era of Emily Plunkett's radical feminism seem to have progressed, but our action in actually effecting change and achieving parity has not.

So much so it was reported this week in the PwC Women in Work Index that Australia has dropped from 17th to 20th (out of 33) in terms of female economic empowerment.  Of note, New Zealand is 4th and UK jumped from 21 to 16.  It is not that Australia is no longer taking action, it's just that the rest of the world is taking even moreaction.

This time last year, we were hosting our first Inter-Professional event with the newly appointed Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman.  I spoke about how women no longer accepted "good enough", and with the taste of success, it was incumbent upon us all to selflessly work together, because we must continue to build on the success of the dedicated women before us.

I am pleased to say that progress for women in the legal profession in Queensland, particularly at the Bar, has not regressed, with the latest Supreme Court Annual Report confirming an increase in appearances by women in the Court of Appeal, criminal matters and civil matters. 

While my next comment may be interpreted as biased, I have no hesitation in stating that WLAQ continues to achieve success in advocating for women in the legal profession under the leadership of our current President.

It is through our deliberate action that we host tonight's event and allow our members an opportunity to network with other mid to senior professional businesswomen in Brisbane, to discuss the issues facing our everyday work life, enjoy a well earned wine, and to hear from a now former member of the legal profession, who, if I may be so bold to say, is absolutely killing it in the Boardroom.

Kirstin Ferguson is a lady who has a seat at the table and her career alone is an example of action that can be taken to achieve parity.  I first came across Kirstin through Twitter as we were both tweeting about union. 

I had an online stalk, and when reading through her resume, my immediate reaction was I need to meet this woman.  Currently on the Board for the ABC, the Queensland Theatre Company, previously Chairwoman of Thiess, and the first female director of Reds Rugby Union.  I wanted in on her inner circle, or in line with the latest buzz word – her squad!

With a PhD to go along side her degrees in Law and Arts (both of which she obtained with Honours), it is no surprise that Kirstin was named in the Australian Financial Review's 100 Women of Influence in 2014.

I am very much looking forward to hearing from Kirstin, and ask that you please make her welcome.

International Women's Day 2016

8 March.  The internationally recognised day celebrating women. 

Some may still view this day with the same level of disdain the Asquith era did. 

However, feminism has grown with the times.  1903 would be the height of radical feminism, where lives were lost, property damaged and instead of inciting respect for their cause, the radicals fuelled hate.  I personally don't think inciting riots or protests brings about change or positive awareness to a cause, however caveat that in saying there could be a time and place where it may.  But Emily Pankhurt's efforts were not in vain, and as society developed so did the feminist movement. 

I have grown up in an era where the "feminism" and "feminist" have developed from negative connotations and comparisonsbetween Mary Wollstonecraft and Germaine Greer, to empowerment and thought leaders such as Emma Watson and closer to home, Elizabeth Broderick.  It is acceptable now, not only for females, but for men, to align themselves with the feminist movement and pledge for parity, the IWD 2016 theme.

To me, it's not about one gender being more superior than another.  It is about me, and in years to come, my daughter and granddaughter having the same level of support, the same access to resources, and the same pay for the same work.  I clearly subscribe to the more liberal feminist movement.  For me, it is not about rewriting the rules of etiquette it is about recognising that in 2016 we have to actually do something.  It is not just about writing blogs such as this, it is about getting out there and making a change.  This needs to be done collectively, and with the same purpose in mind.

2133.  That is when the World Economic Forum says that parity will be reached.  You can't tell me we went from Nokia's to iPhone's in the space of 7 years, but it will take 230 years since Pankhurt first founded the Women's Social and Political Union to reach parity.  That is just ignorance from the upper echelons.

I still maintain change will come sooner with the help of Gen Y.  Our levels of "unconscious" bias are lower than that of our parents and we have greater awareness of the impact equality issues can have.  I hope that the Male Champions of Change continue with their efforts, but take younger male role models on board and help them champion the cause.

If you see an IWD post this week, take a moment to reflect on how far we have come, but how much further we still have to go.  Find a way to make a difference for future generations.  To take from the IWD website, "Each of us can be a leader within our own spheres of influence and commit to take pragmatic action to accelerate gender parity."

Happy International Women's Day 2016.

WLAQ Awards honours Queensland Women

The past few months have been very busy.  I am glad that everyone enjoyed the WLAQ 37th Annual Awards, and was very pleased that the Attorney-General accepted our invitation to attend.

This would have to be one of my favourite events to have organised for WLAQ and our pictures are available on our Facebook Page.

Our sponsor for the Woman Lawyer of the Year Award was UQ School of Law.  I am grateful that they were able to assist with the event again this year and thank them for their coverage in this article. 

Thank you to Georgie Dent for agreeing to be the Keynote Speaker - the best friendships really are formed on Twitter.  I must also express my delight at Leneen Forde AC suggesting we have a 'selfie'!

When your quote becomes an InstaInspo!

I have mentioned (a lot) on my Twitter how I am a member of LBD Group.  The fabulous Janine Garner and everyone she has introduced me to have really changed my life.  I first met Janine in December 2013, and have not turned back since!

This month's GLOSS features my FOMO article and I was just that little bit excited to see that one of my quotes had been turned into a meme for #instainspo.

Check out the July issue of GLOSS for more inspiring stories.

WLAQ hosts The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP

Since being appointed Secretary of Women Lawyers Association of Queensland in July 2014, I have been fortunate enough to attend and host a number of events.  The most recent event was the inaugural WLAQ Inter-Professional Networking Evening, where we hosted over 110 WLAQ members and their guests.

I was working with a fabulous sub-committee of Tamlyn Mills and Bridget Handley and the support we received from a number of Queensland businesses was amazing.  My good girlfriend Laura Chong, of The 400co dressed us all in the Mater Chicks in Pink dress, The Collection by M provided personalised chocolates and we all drank Ballandean Estate wine while eating food catered by Sage Catering.  And the venue, Wesley House kindly organised by The College of Law Queensland.  Pictures from the night can be found on the WLAQ Facebook Page.

Andre Cois Photography

The theme of our night was "make it happen", which was the 2015 International Women's Day theme.

The highlight of my night was being able to speak in front of my peers and close friends and to introduce our keynote speaker, The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP.  A copy of my speech for the night is below.

I stand by what I say.  Collaboration is what it will take to address issues of gender diversity in the legal profession.

Let's make it happen.

Introduction by Cassandra Heilbronn for Minister Fentiman MP

Good Evening.

Internationally, March is dedicated to the celebration of events relating to women in history and contemporary society.  As Tamlyn highlighted, 2015 is the year of making it happen and where effective action for advancing and recognising women is encouraged.

Gone are the days where women focussed celebrations were held for political favour.  In its place, recognition of issues professional and corporate women face as they work towards challenging the status quo by not adhering to traditional, and well worn, rules and expectations of women in the workplace. 

Women no long simply accept "good enough".  We have tasted success, and with ambition we build and capitalise on the foundations laid by our predecessors.  Through our recently endorsed Strategic Plan, WLAQ has committed to providing an avenue, and to be a catalyst, for change for women in the legal profession.  Tonight, we are doing just that as we are joined by our peers from other professions as we enjoy a glass of wine and share stories.  Collaboration.   That is how we will achieve equality and diversity in the legal profession.

We have an advantage over our founding members.  Men are alive to the issues impeding the progression of women and accept that change is required.  I personally believe this change will come through the next generation of leaders, through my generation.  My male peers accept me as an equal, they frankly admit to having professional role models such as The Honourable Justice McMurdo AC and are familiar with females taking on the historically traditional role of provider, or "breadwinner".  Subconscious bias has not been inherited. 

It is incumbent upon us all to selflessly work together, because we must continue to build on the success of the dedicated women before us and make it happen.

In recognition of a woman who recently made it happen, we have invited The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP, Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Child Safety and Multicultural Affairs to be our keynote speaker for this evening and share her thoughts on "making it happen" for professional and corporate women.

Minister Fentiman holds a Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) from QUT and recently completed her Master of Laws at Melbourne University.  She was admitted as a legal practitioner in 2007.

Prior to her election to the Queensland Parliament as the member for Waterford, she worked as a solicitor at Hall Payne Lawyers and has considerable experience in employment law, having previously worked as an industrial advocate for the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union.  She also worked as a Judge's Associate in the Supreme Court of Queensland to her Honour Justice Atkinson.

We thank Minister Fentiman for making time to attend during the Parliamentary dinner break and speak to us tonight.

Please welcome, Minister Fentiman.

Who is she? She is, Sarah Jane

Most of Australia's female population with an interest in fashion and lifestyle would have heard of Sarah-Jane Young (and have her Instagram on refresh).  Every post online attributed to the SISJ brand is well thought out, consistent, fresh and stylish.  Sarah Jane’s online presence appears effortless and is I was fortunate enough to have her to agree to an interview so I could delve deeper into her world, one that has inspired me, and find out why she is Sarah Jane.

When looking at Sarah Jane’s website you would be forgiven for thinking that she is Superwoman.  A Magazine Editor (she is Fashion & Beauty Editor for Latte Magazine), who runs her own website with an amazing team of contributing editors and (to me) a lifestyle many would be envious of.  I love that Sarah Jane is not one of those girls who found instant success through Instagram and shameless product promotion.  With a background in advertising and marketing, who has worked in publishing and e-commerce for a fashion label prior to landing a role as a marketing and PR manager for a hair and beauty company, Sarah Jane is a walking marketing role model, who is far from reaching her peak.

One thing that also struck me about Sarah Jane is her integrity.  When I asked her what she is most proud of, her response was her WOMEN WHO INSPIRE series.  I just shake in my head in absolute awe and delight.  Sarah Jane is an ambassador for Dr LeWinn and just returned from an overseas trip to Europe with Peugeot, she is managed by The Ministry of Talent (owned by the PR Queen herself, Roxy Jacenko) and she is most proud of being able to showcase the talents of other women in order to inspire females worldwide.  What a woman! 

However, after you finish reading below and seeing Sarah Jane’s latest news, I think that her real legacy will be revealed in about four months’ time (yes, I am squealing with delight at her news).

Did you ever think that your (then) blog would lead you to where you are today?

Absolutely not! I never intended for my blog to go anywhere further than a hobby. I started my blog a few years ago as an escape from my then mundane job! It was a creative escape for me and I loved that I was the boss.

Things really started to skyrocket after my internship at Grazia magazine in London. This also gave me the confidence to believe in my writing and my vision and I pushed on with the blog. It was literally like I woke up one day and I was ‘kind of a big deal’! Of course signing with the whirlwind that is Roxy Jacenko at The Ministry of Talent has also been amazing for exposure and job opportunities. I am eternally grateful to Rox for believing in SISJ.

What is a start to finish day look like for you?

Ha! You don’t want to know – it sometimes involves PJs and crazy bed hair all day! I don’t really have an ‘average day’, due to the nature of my jobs. I am always juggling a thousand different things – upcoming blog posts and collaborations, photo shoots, my social media/online plan, admin, my finances, networking, styling for shoots… the list goes on!

I do feel sometimes my mind and desk are mayhem, however, it somehow works as a big organised mess! It’s all about having a strict schedule/routine and working when you are at your best. I work very well in the morning and like to start my day with PT or exercise, followed by admin and emails until lunchtime. I will always break for something to eat or run some errands. I love playing with my two furry babies (Mika and Arbie) and then I get back to the desk for my afternoon sprint. By about 4:00pm my brain and eyes hurt and I chill out for a while – usually a true crimes or Real Housewives episode!

I will cook for myself and the hubby most nights and then we hit the gym (if we are being good!). A little bit more TV and I get back to my desk until about midnight. I am a serious night owl! I get some of my best work done late at night. This is when I do most of my writing, it just seems to flow easier than during the day.

 

I often find that many career girls associate the term “work/life balance” with working mums.  Do you think it is just as important for single professionals, or working women with no kids to embrace the work/life balance philosophy?
Funny you should mention this… I am not totally kid-free! I am actually 5 months pregnant, but it’s still a big secret! (Can you see why I squealed with delight?  How exciting and congratulations).  However, she’s not arrived yet obviously, so I can only comment on my current work/life balance – although my philosophies are similar.

I have always ensured I have a healthy work/life balance in previous roles. I believe this is the key to not only maintaining your sanity, but also true happiness. I have now been working from home on my blog and Latte Magazine now for nearly 18 months and have found it quite hard at times to really grasp that perfect ‘balance’. While there are so many pros not only working for yourself, but working from home, there are also some negatives. I think it’s healthy to have a workspace outside your home, as convenient as it is. My mother always drilled in the importance of a happy home and also separating environments (that’s what you get having a forensic psychologist for a mum!) – But I do agree.

I now start my day with a strict routine and have set hours for most days. Of course, this is all pretty flexible which is fantastic, but the 1am Instagram monitoring probably needs to stop! There’s no real right or wrong answer, I just listen to my body and brain and adjust accordingly. No day or week is ever the same, so it’s all about introducing some sort of schedule.

Young and successful career girls often face many challenges, one being judgment passed on their looks and not their intellect.  I have faced it before – with guys and girls and I can only imagine that you have encountered similar situations – not being taken seriously at first face value.  What message can you give other career girls to help them moving forward.

Yes, I can understand how you feel. I previously worked with a very large health organisation and was judged all the time on how I looked (and for my job title!). After I while you just develop a thick skin and people always came around, however that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt or was fair. I will add also, that it was always other women!

Being the old-ER and wiser woman that I am today, I can only put it down to jealousy – without sounding totally self-consumed. As a ‘blogger’ or ‘social media influencer’, looking a certain way can obviously work in your favour though. I do need to add, only my good pics go up online – we ALL have bad days. In this world there are all new ways for others to insult you.  Considering my readership and followers are quite large, I’ve been pretty lucky regarding “trolling” and online abuse for how I look. The first few times it really upset me. However, after I got over it and realised I must have “made it”, I knew this vicious behaviour was on their insecurities talking.

At the end of the day, I post images of myself and have created a business based on exactly that – me. So who am I to complain when people pass judgement? I just know I will raise my daughter exactly how I was, if you’ve got nothing nice to say, say nothing at all. It’s simple.

You are always looking fabulous. Your hair, makeup, outfits. You are comparable to a walking Vogue print! Who do you draw your inspiration from? 

I will accept your lovely comment, however, after reading my last answer, these are only the pictures you see! I am super lucky I have some great friends who help me to be my best too – including my ‘hair husband’! We all need one.

To be completely honest – my inspiration comes from nowhere in particular.  Obviously subconsciously we style ourselves and our homes based on something we’ve seen or been exposed to, but I don’t actively seek out magazines or other blogs for inspiration. I wear what I want to wear.

I definitely have a very traditional and girlie side of me and sometimes joke I was born in the wrong era.  I think I am a 40’s girl! I like blending old with new and making it my own (This makes me love her GuessJeans shoot even more!).

Who is that one career girl who inspires you?

Georgina Chapman. She is my ultimate career and girl crush.  Aside from being incredibly beautiful, she is a successful business woman (designer for Marchesa – one of my faves!), a wife, a mother and continues to evolve with everything that she does.  I adore her.

Every career girl has that one quote they live by. What is yours?

The best revenge is living well.

A fun one - if you could post a selfie with anyone, who would it be?

Cameron Diaz! I just love her bubbly persona and I think we could totally be besties!

Thank you Sarah Jane for taking the time for this interview – I want to provide young professionals with an insight into the world of inspirational women, and give them that motivation to continue to achieve.  It is refreshing to know that not everyone woke up like this Beyonce style, that through all of your success you are proud of being able to give back and that you have shared with me such exiting news about a bubba Sarah Jane on the way.  I for one am excited to hear about the next chapter of your life and maybe I can get you back to give us an insight into the world of a working mum (and if you ever become besties with Cameron Diaz, I shotgun a photobomb in the selfie!).

Internationally acclaimed barrister marries .... an actor

Why is this worthy of a blog?  Well firstly, said barrister is Amal Alamuddin, advocate for human rights and international refugee law extraordinaire, which is inspiring enough for a blog. Oh hang on you say, Amal Alamuddin, wait isn't she marrying? Yes, George Clooney.  Ok, so is the blog about him, because  he is certainly blog worthy!

But no, the blog isn't about him, but it is because of him and the way in which his marriage is being reported.  The gorgeous bride, Amal, is one of the most inspiring women in the legal profession (along with Jen Robinson who was also in attendance) and this is the first article which isn't pitched that she is marrying him.  This fairytale is really about the Prince who scored with marrying a Queen.  Amal has intellect, style and power.  George should be so lucky!  I'm glad this article was written, well at least it's title (the article inspired this blog if that was not already clear!).

There are so many tangents I could take this blog, one is where I query the correlation of Amal's power and success with her age of marriage (36), which I must admit makes me feel so much better as I reach the under 4 week countdown to my 30th birthday.  But it's not necessary to take away from the main message this article title shows - gone are the days when a woman is "lucky" to be getting married, she is "lucky" she is being saved and "lucky" that someone wants her, because be getting married the man is doing her a favour.  

Women like Amal are continuing to make their mark on the world.  We don't need men to survive (yes, we enjoy having you around - I am NOT a man hater), and we aren't "lucky"to have you. You are lucky to have us. Trail blazers, game changers, leading women, career girls, power women.  Call them what you want, but the most important life decision we will make is that of who WE choose to have procreational sex with, ie who we marry.  If we choose you, YOU should be so lucky. 

Dr Frankel just wants to see you BE BRAVE!

I recently interviewed Dr Lois Frankel for the May issue of Gloss, the premiere online magazine of LBDGroup.  It is such an amazing experience to get to speak to those who inspire you in your career! 

Date: May 2014

Source: 

http://asp-au.secure-zone.net/v2/index.jsp?id=993/1104/5258&lng=en&utm_source=Sept+2013+All+Subscribers&utm_campaign=dc21089408-GLOSS_MAY_2014&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_12ce6dff88-dc21089408-54417277

 

Quentin Bryce - the epitome of a lady

With Quentin Bryce soon ceasing her title as Australia's Govenor-General and the publicity in today's media, it reminded me of the time I met her and how awe-struck I was by her elegance.

It was during our Finals Week of the RSL Girl in a Million. For those of you not familiar with GIM, it was an opportunity for young females to raise much needed funds for war veterans and for the finalists, to participate in Finals Week which saw many meetings and adventures, all while being judged on our deportment, etiquette, life skills and interactions with the community. 

A highlight was tea with Ms Bryce, as the then Governor of Queensland. It was one of her last functions hosted at Government House in Paddington. As it was a formal event, we had to wear a hat (I chose felt as it was winter) and the girls and I were on our best behaviour to ensure when stirring our tea we didn't "clunk" the spoon on the teacup! 

Ms Bryce was an exceptional host and shared many stories. I loved how she was able to find a way to relate to each and everyone of us in a different way. For me, we spoke about politics and shoes - as you do! 

I see her as a fantastic role model and she made a positive impact on my life. Whenever I look at her, I see a picture of a lady. I think this is a lost art in the younger generations, including mine. Deportment and etiquette go a long way. 

For any young career girl, I recommend deportment and etiquette lessons. In Brisbane, June Daly Watkins offers informative courses on personal development. 

Remember - "your dresses should be tight enough to show you're a woman, but loose enough to show you're a lady" ~ Edith Head

Why I chose Layne Beachley Aim For The Stars Foundation

As part of the International Women's Day Debate (see previous blog), I was able to choose a charity to whom I wanted my share of the funds raised from they day donated to.

I wanted to find a charity that was not only a good cause, but was also close to my heart. 

Briefly, my background is that I grew up in Bundaberg and it is safe to say, I am not from your typical middle, or upper class. I've mentioned in previous blogs about how hard my dad worked to get me through a private high school so I could go to university and study law. 

Three months after I turned 17, I left Bundaberg for Brisbane to study law and commerce, majoring in politics. I had worked since I was 13 so I could buy clothes and other teenage things during high school. I had limited savings before moving out of home. When I got to Brisbane, I had no savings left after paying bond and rent.  My dad gave me money so I could buy my first lot of groceries. I was so grateful.  I was also lucky my 3 years of working in bowling alley during high school made it easier to get a job at the local bowling alley in Brisbane pretty quickly. 

Balancing study, uni and work was hard. I had just turned 17, but had to manage financially. I was using a 486 computer (in 2002) and frequently was pulling late nights up in the computer rooms as they had Microsoft Word that was current and internet was too expensive to have at home (dial-up). 

I made it through though. It was hard financially throughout the years, and I still have HECS, but it was worth it. I am not going to lie, I would have given anything in those first few weeks in Brisbane to have had more help financially with buying textbooks and a new computer. I am grateful for those I could call on financially and emotionally. 

This brings me back to my chosen charity. While researching charities ahead of the Debate, Layne Beachley came up in my LinkedIn feed (I'm an avid - but hopeless - surfer), about the grants offered through her charity, the Aim For the Stars Foundation.  

I researched further and was so drawn in. The Foundation offers financial assistance to girls who want to pursue their dreams and ambitions. My choice was simple and Layne has always been someone I admired throughout her surfing career (and beyond) and to see what she is now doing for these girls, elevates her even more in my eyes. 

I am proud that because of my participation in the debate, thanks to all of those who attended and donated on the day, a total of just over $9,500 will be donated to Aim For the Stars Foundation. 

I have read through the Grant receipts for 2014 and these females are going to be game changers one day. I hope the money raised makes a difference to some young girls lives and gives them an opportunity to pursue their goals. No one should be held back from pursuing their dreams due to money. 

I will forever support Aim For the Stars Foundation. 

If you want to make a donation to Aim For the Stars Foundation, visit www.aimforthestars.com.au.

Cas

International Women's Day 2014

On Friday, I the most amazing opportunity of my life.  I debated, with 5 other incredible women, in the Australian Institute of Management's International Women's Day debate.  This event is THE event of the year for all of Brisbane's corporate and business women.  It is in its 18th year - a testament to the calibre of the event and the effort Christine and her team put into making it perfect.

This years topic was 'Women need to lean in or miss out'.  I was the third speaker on the negative team.  Pressure much!!

 

Sara Hatten-Masterson - Director of The Image Boutique, Cassandra Heilbronn - Lawyer, Sharon Schoenborn - Qld Director of Microsoft Australia

The focus of the negative team was this:

• Sharon focused on the stereotypes of women and the unconscious bias that women face in the workplace;
• Sara focused on authenticity and how leaning back, at a time you want, can take you to even further success; and
• I focused on the systemic and culture issues, and the reason why women are missing out is because of organisations and their lack of leaning in.

A few of my favourite quotes from my debate (when I get the video I will post it!):

• We need to be the change we want to see.
• Organisational change will start with Generation Y - the reason why Sheryl Sandberg can make it work, is not just because she is leaning in, it's because she has a Generation Y boss, who hasn't been brought up with unconscious bias, and sees women in the workplace as equals.
• We should help other women - if they need to get out to make it to their children's swimming carnival.  Don't use it to your advantage.  There is a special place in hell for women who don't help out other women!
• We can't just lean in, smiling relentlessly, acting like a school girl and expect a change.  We need to challenge the status quo and get organisations to lean in.

I finished with a toast.  A toast to:

• the women who will create a change;
• the women who already have a spot at the Boardroom table;
• the women who will have a spot at the Boardroom table; and
• the women who when we wake up in the morning, the devil shakes in his chair and says "crap she's up!".

I will never again have an opportunity like this in my life.  I am so lucky to have met some incredible women, most of all my fellow team mates - Sharon and Sara.  They are great role models and have inspired me to make a change.

On this International Women's Day, I want to leave you with this video from Dr Lois Frankel - another lady who I admire and inspire to be like.  This video keeps in with the 2014 Women's Day theme of INSPRING CHANGE.  Dr Frankel has recognised a number of brave women in history and motivated me to BE BRAVE!  I don't know what my life will bring, but I am ready to bring on the next chapter.

Career Girl Spotlight - Laura Chong The 400 Co

For anyone who reads my tweets and this blog you will know I am a massive advocate for work/life balance and having extracurricular activities. 

These activities could be your children, your love of expensive wine, sport and fitness (like me), or fashion like Laura Chong (pictured below). Laura is the first career girl, in a series to come, that I am going to spotlight. 

Laura is a lawyer (like some of the best of us are!) but is also an entrepreneur. Laura is a fashion designer and has started her own clothing label The 400 Co (www.the400co.com.au). These clothes are aimed at corporate women and are oh so comfortable. I've been privileged enough to model for Laura at a recent women's networking event and they deserve to be seen by the world. 

Here is an exclusive look into Laura's life and how she makes it happen. 

Laura Chong - Lawyer, Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur 

What is your "day" career

Construction Litigator at Holding Redlich. 

How many hours a day do you generally spend at your "day" career

On average, 9 to 11 hours. 

Throughout the early stages of your career, how did you wind down and de-stress

Like many young lawyers, cocktail hour was a great time to wind down with friends. But exercise is a greater motivator and a chance to de-stress!

You've now started your own fashion line and released your latest designs, what prompted you to do this

After my first year in the law full time, I realised that I needed something more; a way to express myself creatively. Aside for wanting something different to wear to work than all the high street labels that everyone else in the city owned, I wanted a way to contrast my busy, high pressure law practice with something that was a little fun and creative. 

I read an article one day that said this was a way to achieving work life balance and even though it has turned into a form of work, I feel like it gives me the drive I need in my day job and in the business side of The 400 Co. 

How much leg work did you have to put into starting the line

I had about 3 months of planning from surfing the web for manufacturers to launching the live website. There wasn't really any moment where I was planning as such, I hit the ground running and made the big decisions when they popped up. I think this is a major problem for small businesses is doing too much planning. My biggest tip is don't sit on your idea for too long, do your research, but go ahead and do it. Otherwise you will get bored of it or it will never truly take off. 

Does the line provide you with that extra release for your "day" career

Definitely.  There are some things that law offers me that The 400 Co does not, and vice versa. They both perfectly balance me out at this point. The 400 Co is the creative release that I need when I come home from a busy day at the office and need to switch off my mind and relax. 

What are your hopes for the future for the line 

I would like to see The 400 Co gain a grater presence in Australia and I am planning to do this by extending our networks. 

This part of our other strategy to give back - we have grown so quickly and with our exposure we have been approached by a number of charities that we are working with to achieve mutual ends and awareness within the community on important issues that corporate professionals are in a good position to make positive changes towards. 

Wow. That is fantastic. So taking all of that on board, do you believe it is important to have a work life balance 

Definitely. Though this is concept that is easier said than done. What achieves balance for one person will not necessarily work for another. My advice to young professionals is try a few different tactics and branch out. It is not so much about reducing your hours at work but more about finding the time to do things that make you happy. 

Do you hope to inspire others to branch out and be diverse in their career, or do you think it's important to inspire girls to do their best and take the path they want to succeed

I think we all have different goals in life. It is not so much about being diverse, working women need to find the time to sit down and think "what am I working towards?"  There is no point slaving away if you don't have a target in mind. You should have both long term and short term goals that are achievable and that you can work towards. Without goals, life is very uninspiring!!

Who is that one career girl who inspires you/is your role model 

My role model is very close to home. Janelle Kerrisk, my Partner at Holding Redlich, is a true inspiration. She is the type of woman that gets out there and does it. She makes you believe that anything is possible if you want it, work towards it and know you deserve it. 

Every career girl has that one quote they live by. What is yours?

The global success brand Nike says it best - JUST DO IT!

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Thanks so much for your time Laura. I can't wait to see what your next line brings.