Jane | UN Women

To celebrate International Women's Day, we sat down with the UN Women Australia team to learn more about their roles and what the annual event means to them. Meet Jane, Relationship Manager.

Q: CAN YOU TALK US THROUGH A DAY IN YOUR LIFE AT UN WOMEN AUSTRALIA?

My primary role is to educate, inform and retain our key individual supporters. A typical day might include sending an update report on various UNW work our donors have supported - for example, in aid of women and girls in Ukraine and Afghanistan. I may also be found communicating with one of our country offices (most recently Sri Lanka and Fiji) to get more detailed information about programs. I might also be working with our CEO Simone, or one of our board members, to arrange a speaking engagement to increase exposure and educate more potential advocates. Occasionally, I also have the amazing pleasure of working with one of our precious partners like SABA to work toward our mutual goals.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF THE JOB AND WHY?

The best part of my job is the incredible team I work with, who are dedicated, committed, and supportive in every way. We all feel the same passion to do everything possible to achieve gender equality, even if it means taking relatively small steps in the journey. Speaking with our supporters and hearing their stories is also a part of the job that I treasure. I love the diversity of work I get involved with, which is largely down to the fact that we're a small team that investigates new opportunities with enthusiasm and support.

Q: WHAT DOES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MEAN TO YOU?

International Women’s Day is a truly inspirational time for all women in Australia, including myself. UN Women Australia arranges an incredible programme of speakers at lunches in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth - it's very exciting to be part of these events. This year, I will be the UNWA host at the Perth lunch, and I look forward to meeting the WA attendees and thanking them for their support.