Cardinia Shire community members are invited to attend an afternoon event at the Cardinia Cultural Centre to celebrate International Women’s Day for 2025.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the movement of women’s rights. It’s a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and to raise awareness of the inequality women face across the world.
Cardinia Shire Council is hosting this free event to celebrate the achievements of women in our community and to call on everyone to help #AccelerateAction toward achieving gender equality.
Join us to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of women within Cardinia Shire and beyond.
Event details:
When: Thursday 6 March 2025, from 1–3pm.
Where: Cardinia Cultural Centre, 40 Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham, 3810
Cost: Free, and bookings are essential as places are limited.
There is an exciting line up of presentations and performances, including guest speaker, Zione Walker-Nthenda, dance performance by Maori artists, T’honi, and a Q and A Panel of women from diverse backgrounds in the corporate world. The event will be followed by an afternoon tea.
Zione Walker-Nthenda is a lawyer, social entrepreneur, and Director in the Victoria Public Service. She has led impactful initiatives in community building, family violence reform, and human rights. A global citizen, she co-hosts the Like Us Podcast on SBS Audio.
T’Honi Kapa Haka is a Māori group located on Bunurong Country in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Driven by a deep love for their Māori heritage, they will showcase traditional kapa haka at the International Women’s Day event, featuring ceremonial elements, songs, and haka, involving participants of all ages.
Book online at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/IWD2025 or call the Box Office on 1300 887 624.
This year’s themes from IWD global and the United Nations Women Australia are #AccelerateAction and #MarchForward respectively. These themes both reflect on the progress made for women’s rights and gender equality and call for immediate action to more quickly achieve gender equality for all women.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event.
“As an advocate for gender equality, I look forward to International Women’s Day each year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our community to celebrate women and their contributions to society,” Mayor Kowarzik said.
“This event and Council’s ongoing efforts are about achieving equal human rights for everyone – embracing all genders, ages, abilities, cultures, ethnicities, sexualities, and religions. Everyone has a role in breaking down barriers to gender equality, and I hope you’ll join us to show your support and commitment.”
Deputy Mayor Councillor Alanna Pomeroy described International Women’s Day celebrations as an important way to connect and empower local women, and to boost momentum for action.
“This International Women’s Day, we’re uniting with a clear purpose – to celebrate the successes of women and accelerate our progress toward gender equality. I’m looking forward to hearing from inspirational speaker, Zione Walker-Nthenda, and connecting with others to explore ways we can increase awareness and proactive efforts,” Deputy Mayor Pomeroy said.
“It’s essential that the voices and aspirations of women and girls are integrated into all our Council initiatives. By highlighting stories of resilience and success, and driving policy changes, we can ensure fair access to services and support and break down barriers to inclusion. Working together, we can build a community where everyone feels acknowledged and included.”
For more information about International Women’s Day, background and celebrations across the globe, visit the United Nations (UN) Women Australia website, www.iwd.net.au, or international campaign website, www.internationalwomensday.com.
