Celebrating International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a very special day of the year. It’s a day where we get to celebrate all the incredible women in our lives and acknowledge the hard work, they put into the things they’re passionate about each day. Whether they’re creative chefs serving up delicious dishes for the local community, fashion designers creating gorgeous gowns, or simply hard-working mums who are dedicated to teaching their children how to navigate the world, we’re constantly inspired by the women around us and how their diverse range of skills help to make the world a better place.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re taking the theme ‘inspired inclusion’ out into our local centres and communities to showcase some of our incredible retailers, staff, and community members who are paving the way for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.
Today, we’re chatting with Claudia Tolhurst from the Hunter Melanoma Foundation and learning more about what inspires her
What inspired you to want to play a larger role in your community? - I was raised in a family who were very community minded. My parents were both involved in local sporting clubs and Mum actually volunteered for the Hunter Melanoma Foundation many years ago after my sister had a melanoma removed in her early 20’s. I followed in their footsteps in a volunteering capacity and have been involved in different sporting, school and charity groups including serving 4 years as a member of the HMF Management Committee. When the Executive Officer role became vacant, I jumped at the chance to make a difference in the local community.
What does the phrase “inspired inclusion” mean to you? - For me it’s about feeling inspired to celebrate who I am – to be myself and feel valued. It’s about creating an environment where we acknowledge diversity and inclusion and the value we all have as human beings.
Who are some other women in your community that inspire you? - My inspiration comes from my Mum who taught me that we all have different abilities and face different barriers, some are easier to see than others. Outside of my family, I am inspired by other women who stand strong in our community – people who support other women and protect my name when I’m not in the room. People like Abbey McDonnell – General Manager of the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation and Robyn Sleap – Founding Director of Sleapy’s Foundation – 2 remarkable women who consistently put the needs of the local community ahead of their own
How do you think other women can help make their community more inclusive? - As women, we are often our own worst enemy. For me it’s about supporting each other’s successes and being that person who pulls people up when they start to put others down.
What is it about working with your local community that you love the most? For many years I worked to make a living, the thing I love most about my job is that I am now making a difference. Every day we spend spreading our message, we’re potentially saving lives. The Hunter community is like a big country town and we always pull together when one of us needs support.
International Women’s Day is the perfect time to thank the women in your community for all that they do. Happy International Women’s Day!
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