HSS balances the scales

The United Nations declared “Balance the Scales” as the official theme for International Women’s Day 2026.

Scales symbolise justice and fairness - and this year’s theme represents the urgent need for equity, inclusivity and accessibility for women and girls within all spaces.

HSS hosted and promoted several events during March including networking workshops and self-defence classes to create spaces that champion women at all levels within HSS.

Breakfast with a side of bold conversation

On 6 March, a group of HSS employees attended Breakfast by the Bay, an International Women’s Day event held at the University Club of Western Australia.

Hosted by UWA Chancellor Dr. Diane Smith-Gander AO, the event brought together a panel of inspiring voices.

Along with A/Prof Maggie Ying Jiang, Associate Pro Vice Chancellor of UWA, Dr. Diane explored the concept of “invisible labour” – undertaking work that is usually unseen and undervalued.

A major focus for the day was the importance of saying “yes” to work that can create an impact and grow careers.

The panel included Sandy Anghie, co-founder and Chair of Perth Design Week, who reminded everyone that equality begins in the home and trickles down into spaces such as the workplace.

Derek Gerrard, Managing Partner of Purpose Venture Fund, also joined the conversation and highlighted the importance of women backing their value and what they have to offer when pitching ideas in a professional setting.

For Rachel Nayna, A/Manager Digital Customer Engagement, the morning was a chance to reflect on the impact of the unseen women whose contributions have made it possible to gather at such events.

“It was incredibly encouraging and inspiring to hear the panel members share their leadership experiences with us,” said Rachel.

After engaging in these eye-opening discussions over a delicious breakfast, attendees left the event invigorated and ready to apply these takeaways to their own lives.

Musical-chair mentorship

HSS also organised its own IWD LeadHERship event as part of its ongoing commitment to providing equitable opportunities for career growth.

The interactive “musical chairs” style workshop featured five tables, each hosted by a HSS Executive.

Participants had the opportunity to speak with each Executive for 15 minutes, giving everyone the chance to ask questions in a relaxed environment.

Conversations ranged from daily mindfulness practices and career advice to preferred leadership styles and ways HSS can further ‘balance the scales’ in the workplace.

I really valued the chance to connect with our executive outside the formal meeting setting,” said Tara Carroll, Senior Risk and Compliance Officer.

To get to know our Executives better, participants were also provided with a helpful curated list of recommended books, podcasts and various other resources centred on self-development and women’s empowerment.

A major hit with attendees, the event was a chance to dive deeper into what is involved in taking up a leadership role at HSS.

“We always see our leaders leading, but it was a rare opportunity to sit down and hear why and how they do what they do to be where they are today,” said Diana Teow, Team Leader Payroll.

Empowering safety

But wait – there’s more!

To close off International Women’s Day festivities, HSS hosted a group self-defence class. A fantastic confidence-building activity, the event was designed to educate and empower attendees.

Despite its fun premise, the self-defence session is a powerful reminder that despite the world’s progress, there is still a very real need to keep women and girls safe from violence.