Author: shaunak wanikar

Today on International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting seven extraordinary women who have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for others. They’ve shared their wisdom, experiences, and advice, which will make you think, reflect, and maybe even spark change in your own life. Read their powerful words and celebrate with us.

Erin Evans (CEO & Founder, INTELLIGEN)

Anna Baird (Founder & Director, Bared Footwear)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

Investing in women is about creating opportunities, fostering confidence, and ensuring that leadership tables are diverse and representative. At Bared, women make up the majority of our leadership team, and I’ve seen firsthand how having women in decision-making roles brings different perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and a strong sense of community and collaboration. I believe in hiring great people, empowering them, and giving them the flexibility to thrive. Leadership, to me, isn’t about hierarchy, it’s about ensuring your team feels valued and supported so they can do their best work.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

I’d tell her: Trust your gut and keep going. When I started Bared, I had no idea what I was doing beyond knowing that there was a gap in the market for stylish, supportive footwear. The first few years were tough, our initial shoes weren’t great, and we nearly lost everything. But I kept listening, learning, and evolving, and that persistence made all the difference. My younger self would probably roll her eyes and say, “Easy for you to say now!” but I think deep down, she’d take it on board.

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

Karma Chameleon. It has such an infectious, feel-good energy and it’s impossible not to move to it. Maybe it resonates because it’s about staying true to yourself, not changing to fit in, and embracing individuality.

Christine Khor (CEO & Founder, Peeplcoach; THPA National Board Director)

Camilla Franks (Founder & Creative Director, CAMILLA)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

I have always had a passion for investing in creativity, in women, in Australian talent. Taking the time and putting in the work to do something right. That flows through every element of my brand and my business. Every piece I create is an investment, a keepsake, a modern heirloom to be treasured, revisited, loved forever and passed down through generations.

I am so proud that CAMILLA is a fierce, fearless, female-founded, female-led business. I’ve made that a priority since the very beginning. But for me, investing in women means not only putting women in strong positions throughout my business, but also nurturing that strength, creativity, artistry and innovation. I’m a big believer in empowering aspiring creatives to unlock their full potential, to share their art and their stories and find their voices. And I’m proud to do that every single day!

We are a global collective of printmakers, storytellers, adventurers and artisans – which, almost unbelievably, is 20 years old now – and together we’ve had an incredible impact.

I’ve always designed to make people feel empowered and free, and that ethos has permeated the entire business. Now, I have a global team, and each of them carries that vision with them as a guide. Whether they work in design, marketing, digital or IT… they all invest the time and the creativity to truly innovate, to craft pieces that empower, stories that captivate and to foster a sense of possibility, and purpose.

Together, we’re paving the way for the next generation of young, beautiful, courageous women. Inspiring, uplifting and fortifying them to take control of their mission and design a world that they’re proud to be part of.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

I don’t think she’d listen, to be honest. She was very rebellious. But, if I could give her one piece of advice, it would be this: “Trust your instincts. Trust your intuition. Be brave. Be kind. Work hard. Laugh at every opportunity. Find the magic wherever you can. And inspire others to do the same.”

I’m proud to say, for the most part, I’ve done this throughout my journey.

She’d probably react by shushing me or rolling her eyes and saying: “Well, obviously.” And then she’d probably do the opposite. So, maybe it’s better I don’t give her any advice at all!

I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved. In fact, the best advice I could give my younger self would be: “You’re doing great kiddo. Well done. Keep it up.

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

Unpopular opinion: pump-up music is overrated. Does meditation music count? Because when I need to feel unstoppable, my go-to state is peace, gratitude, compassion and presence. That’s what I need to feel balanced, alive and truly centred in power, passion and my purpose. My favourite track is O, I Love You by Essie Jain, which is on the Sage Cacao Playlist by the beautiful Frankie Moore.

Kate Howitt (Independent Non Executive Director, Commbank; THPA National Board Director)

Tania Austin (Owner & Chair at DECJUBA)

What does investing in women mean to you, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?

Investing in women for me means investing in initiatives that I know are creating opportunities and pathways for great truly things to happen. When you invest in women there are deep social and economic benefits – when women fully participate in the workforce and have freedom to be heard the outcomes are resounding. As a leader my goal is to always create space for my teams to fully realise their potential, to grow, take risks and move with confidence. 

I am so proud that DECJUBA is a female-founded and led company. Our team is 96% female, our executive leadership team is 90% female, and put simply, DECJUBA wouldn’t be where we are today without the amazing women who drive our business forward every day.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self as she was just starting out, what would it be and how do you think she’d react?

If I was giving my younger self a piece of advice it would be  ‘trust yourself, trust your ambition and know that you are more capable than you think’

What’s your go-to pump-up song when you need to feel unstoppable?

One of my favourites is ‘can’t stop’ by the red hot chilli peppers …

Jane Lu (CEO & Founder, Showpo)

Siv Kathiravel, our Deputy CEO, has seen much progress and change during her nine years here at THPA. We take a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Siv thrive.

1. Can you introduce yourself and your role at The Hunger Project Australia?

Hello, my name is Sivanjana (meaning the third eye in Sanskrit) Kathiravel, but most people call me Siv.  After being with the organisation for nine years with various iterations, I’m now the Deputy CEO at The Hunger Project Australia.

2. What inspired you to join THPA?

I’m a first generation migrant from Sri Lanka, who came to Australia with my family when I was 2 months old. Growing up, I was shielded from the hardship and atrocities of a civil war, and instead directed by my parents to focus on having an education and opportunities I most likely wouldn’t have had. Over the years, I understood my privilege and wanted to do what I can for those who didn’t have the same chance at life that I did … purely because of where they were born. And then enter THPA!

3. What’s a program that’s resonated most with you in your work?

• we put people at the forefront of our work
• we see their incredible potential as humans
• we partner with them so that they can create the future they want; and
• it’s sustainable change

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone wanting to make a difference?

It’s not hard – do it! Small, big, once, always…doesn’t matter – just do something (but hopefully more than once!)

5. What’s a book, podcast, or quote that has influenced you?

Can I say a song? Growing up and still, it’s the lyrics and song to Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson.

6. How do you like to unwind in your free time?

Free time? What’s that? I have a cheeky 15 month old, so there’s no such thing! But on the rare occasion of good nights and some down time – watching spy shows, reading, long walks and listening to music.

Former Board member and long time investor Jacinta McDonell shares her extraordinary experience in Zambia when she went as part of our Thrive Immersion Experience.

Jacinta met To Tetema at Ching’ombe, a community we plan to partner with in the coming year. Food security, health facilities, water and resources here are currently scarce; a situation we hope to change in the future with support from our Investors.

“Supporting The Hunger Project isn’t just something I do—it’s something I feel deeply. My journey began in 2014, and revisiting Zambia in 2024 confirmed my connection to the transformative work we do and my continued love for the African continent.

During this trip, I met an extraordinary woman named To Tetema, an extraordinary woman whose story embodies resilience, courage, and strength. In a short walk from her home to the community gathering, we bridged gaps of language.

At 57 years old, To Tetema has lived a life many of us can hardly imagine. A mother of 10 children (8 still living) and 22 grandchildren, she serves as both a midwife and caretaker in her village—despite having no access to clean water or healthcare. She has been widowed for 20 years, raising her family alone with dignity and grace.

Despite these stark differences, I realised the shared humanity that existed between us—two mothers connected by resilience, hope, and love.

In that moment, holding her hand as we walked, I realised the profound truth: the only difference between us was where we were born. I, in Sydney, with access to opportunity; she, in rural Zambia, where basic necessities are scarce.

This moment was humbling beyond words. It reminded me of what truly matters: human connection and our ability to make a difference. I also reflected on the dedication of The Hunger Project staff and the incredible impact they have in supporting leaders like To Tetema to transform their communities. This trip truly was a reaffirmation of my belief in the limitless potential of the human spirit and the importance of supporting those who are creating change every day.

To Temma’s story, and the lessons she taught me will remain etched in my heart forever. Moments like these are why I support THP—and why I believe so deeply in the power of human connection to create change.“

Interested in having a life affirming new experience in 2025? The Hunger Project Australia are running more Immersion Experiences in Africa next year for both individuals and corporate groups. You can register your interest here and we will be in touch!

[Photo Credits: Sarah Jane O’Hara / Human Brand Story]