City of Parramatta puts spotlight on women of Western Sydney

Empowering local women and celebrating their achievements will take centre stage as the City of Parramatta hosts the Invest in Western Sydney Women event, welcoming local female students, businesses, and organisations to commemorate International Women's Day next month.

The inaugural event, to be held at Parramatta Town Hall on Thursday 7 March, will bring together over 220 attendees, to celebrate and uplift local women.

The event will feature a distinguished panel of successful women in various fields, with the Director of the Centre for Western Sydney, Dr. Rhonda Itaoui, leading the discussion.

Dr. Itaoui, who has over eight years of experience in social research, human geography, diversity, and multiculturalism, will delve into this year's International Women's Day theme, ‘Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment’ focusing on women in Western Sydney.

She will be joined for a panel discussion by Parramatta Eels NRLW co-captain Rachael Pearson, Dharug elder Aunty Julie Janson, and Parramatta Business Chamber president Luke Magee.

City of Parramatta Chief Executive Officer Gail Connolly PSM said the event would highlight some of the women shaping the face of Western Sydney and inspire a new generation to do the same.

"It brings together women making a difference in our community now and connects them to a new emerging generation," Ms Connolly said.

"We want women and men leaving this event feeling inspired and empowered to drive gender equity in their own organisations and groups."

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said International Women's Day is an excellent opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of women in our community.

"I work alongside many strong women who play a key role in shaping the City of Parramatta, from councillors to staff members,” Cr Esber says.

“Council’s three-year partnership with the Parramatta Eels also includes a strong focus on the growth of women’s sport, further demonstrating our commitment to helping local women in our community follow their dreams.”

Council will also celebrate International Women's Day with a special campaign online and on social media, profiling women in business in the local area who are leading the path for other women by encouraging equal opportunities to earn, learn and lead.

For more information on Council’s International Women’s Day campaign, go to cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/international-womens-day