INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023 | #EMBRACEEQUITY
BRIDGET VEALS
GENERAL MANAGER WOMENSWEAR, FOOTWEAR AND ACCESSORIES | DAVID JONES
What does International Women's Day mean to you? It is an acknowledgment of women's important role in all societies and a chance to celebrate that acknowledgement .
What stigmas or adversities have you experienced in your career, industry or life that you would like to see dismantled? I have been very fortunate - I come from a family of females with three sisters and seven aunts, and I have had empowerment from strong females all my life. Fashion buying has always been a female-dominated industry, and I have enjoyed the benefits of working for many inspirational women over the years. As your career becomes more senior, seeing the role reversal with more men at the top was interesting. I think it is changing in our industry, and I am fortunate to sit on an executive committee that is very evenly balanced. I am proud to have female colleagues in positions such as CFO and Head of Omi Channel, which has traditionally been male.
What personal or career advice have you received that's been particularly valuable to you? Treat everyone with respect, whether they are your senior or junior. You are nothing without your junior team and remember you were once that junior wanting to be successful in a senior role.
What is the action or decision you've made that you're most proud of? To spend my maternity leave when I had my second daughter in Australia. It was a big move from London with two children under three. Fortunately, I was offered roles here in Australia and decided to stay in this amazing country.
How can women better empower each other to succeed? Give, and you will receive - it absolutely works for me. Always have the confidence to share your knowledge and be generous with your time to support other women.
Why do you think diversity and inclusion in the workplace is so important? We are increasingly a melting pot of different cultures, and our children are growing up in a society where gender and preferences have fewer barriers. The more we embrace diversity and inclusivity, the more we benefit. The more we don't even have to think we are doing it, and it is simply the way, the better.
What is one small act each of us can do that supports the IWD 2023 theme #EmbraceEquity? Mentor and encourage a talented female, whether you work together or are friends, point out their strengths and qualities, and want nothing in return.
If you could have dinner with an inspirationalwoman, dead or alive, who would they be and why? Mother Teresa, we all need some spiritual guidance. I would love to meet her to find out how she did what she did for so many people.