On Tuesday the 8th of March, Latafale Auva’a, Ms Julie Kerr and I made our way to the gates of the prestigious Government House, to join an eagerly waiting group of women, donned in their smartest dress and uniforms. We made up some of the 130 women (and some men), who attended a function hosted by the Governor General Sir Anand Satyanand and Lady Susan Satyanand, to mark the centenary of annual International Women’s day, but also to highlight the work of the organisation UN Women. This organisation is a branch of the United Nations, and works for gender equality and the empowerment of women all around the world.

 

Following mingling over drinks and nibbles, (during which time, we met other school prefects and other women) the Governor General and his wife spoke us to about the occasion and its importance, especially in today’s society with the growing prevalence of women in the workplace. We were inspired by the next speaker, Minister for Women’s Affairs in New Zealand, Hon Hekia Parata, who also talked about International Women’s Day, and about the growing work of UN Women in empowering women all around New Zealand. She spoke with precision and feeling, and inspired a sense of agreement in the female audience, and respect from the men who were attending.

The last speaker we heard was the woman in charge of the New Zealand branch of UN Women, and she spoke about how the centenary of International Women’s Day had prompted UN Women to organise a series of 100 events all around the country in celebration.

At the conclusion of the speeches, photos were taken with the Governor General and Lady Susan, more hands were shaken, and greetings were imparted. We had the pleasure of meeting and talking to, the head girls of Pakuranga College (and consequently swapping promises of complimentary ball tickets for each other).

All together, it was a splendid celebration of women, and a night of learning about the work that so many women around New Zealand, and the world put into the furthering of women’s rights and their empowerment. We all enjoyed our evening, and were able to meet interesting and inspiring women in the process.

Margie Cooney
(Year 13, Taylor)