Parramatta celebrates local leaders on International Women’s Day

First Nations leaders, a business owner, a social change entrepreneur and a scientist are some of the phenomenal local women featured in the City of Parramatta’s 2022 International Women’s Day campaign.

International Women’s Day, held around the world on 8 March, is a chance to highlight women’s achievements and work towards gender equality. This year, Council is recognising the incredible contributions of six local women leaders through an inspiring marketing campaign.

“As the City’s third female Lord Mayor and the proud leader of an inclusive and diverse Council that includes a record-breaking number of women, this day is particularly special to me,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Donna Davis said.

“International Women’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to stop and recognise all the great women in our community. Women are strong leaders and this is captured in our campaign, which features the inspiring stories of some of our extraordinary local leaders. It’s important that we champion and elevate women’s voices in our community.”

The women’s stories will feature on Council’s website, social media channels and on screens at Parramatta train station and shopping centres at North Rocks and Carlingford. The campaign includes Dharug woman Peta Strachan, who teaches girls and women traditional dances and language; Charlene Bordley, who empowers and educates women on bike safety; and Dr Belinda Chapman, who is passionate about encouraging students, especially girls, to pursue careers in STEM.

Cr Davis will be appearing at a special International Women's Day pop-up stall at the Parramatta Farmers Market in Centenary Square, Parramatta on Wednesday 9 March. She and a number of Councillors will be in attendance from 11am-2pm.

On the day, people can show their support for women’s equality by striking the #BreakTheBias pose or making a pledge and posting to social media using the hashtag to receive a $15 Parramatta Farmers Market voucher. These vouchers will be available for the first 200 people and are valid for use on 9 March 2022 only.

Council will also be celebrating International Women’s Day with other activities throughout month. On 8 and 13 March, Riverside Theatres will host special screenings of the documentary Frida Kahlo, and author Heather Morris will discuss her new book, Three Sisters, at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library on 11 March.

There is also a collection of stories about notable women throughout Parramatta’s history available to view on Council’s website.

To read the stories or more information, visit the International Women's Day Activities page.