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Build connections this International Women’s Day Posted: Thursday 28 February 2013

A host of local events are being held across Queensland on March 8 to encourage women to build connections with women in their community as part of this year's International Women’s Day celebrations.

Two women preparing to celebrate — and in the process help improve the lives of other women — are Jacqui FitzGerald and Sandra Georgiou.

Jacqui FitzGerald is chair of the Brisbane Chapter of UN Women Australia and host and organiser of the annual International Women’s Day Breakfast in Brisbane.

This year, UN Women is raising money for its critical services in Papua New Guinea which protect and support women and children experiencing violence.

Jacqui says in a country where two thirds of women experience domestic violence, a little can go a long way.

“It doesn’t take much to make a difference. A donation of $3.50 can provide two women survivors of violence with counselling,” she says.

“A donation of $142 can ensure that 10 police officers receive training on how to respond to domestic violence.”

The Queensland Government has supported the annual breakfast since 1992 which, this year, will feature journalist and award-winning foreign correspondent Sally Sara AM as guest speaker.

Having reported from more than 30 countries including Iraq, Sierra Leone and Afghanistan, Sally has seen first-hand the plight of women around the world.

For more information, including how to purchase tickets or make a donation, visit UN Women.

According to Sandra Georgiou, who heads up Career and Education Opportunities Enterprises, International Women’s Day is “a time for all women of all nations to unite, celebrate, network and talk about any issues, achievements and struggles that relate to women”.

Sandra makes this happen by organising and hosting the annual Black, Bold and Beautiful Indigenous Women’s luncheon that promotes unity and enjoyment of women’s company and celebrates ‘women’s business’ of the modern era.

Sandra says organisers want the event to inspire youth, mums and Elders.

“We want to create an atmosphere that is full of laughter and unity and we want to create a better and broader understanding and awareness of our community's strong leaders and survivors,” she says.

“We want to celebrate and enjoy International Women's Day with not only Indigenous women but all women.”

The Queensland Government has sponsored the annual Black, Bold and Beautiful Indigenous women’s luncheon since 2009.

For tickets to the Black, Bold and Beautiful luncheon, contact Sandra on 3420 5595, 0438 448 008 or blackboldandbeautiful@hotmail.com.

For a full list of International Women’s Day events or to order a promotional pack, visit www.women.qld.gov.au/iwd. 

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