Celebrating Stampa’s women on International Women’s Day
To celebrate International Women’s Day, Stampa’s inspiring women share their reflections on the day and advice for young women starting their careers.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
Marina Millington-Ward: It’s important to celebrate women’s achievements. Although much progress has been made, there’s still quite some way to go for women’s rights; there’s a significant gender pay gap in many countries for instance and some are even moving backwards. Women’s rights are a proven path to fair, peaceful, prosperous societies.
Florence de Kok: It means celebrating women’s achievements – I believe we still have work to do in achieving more gender equality in this world. But I’m really grateful for all the strong women – past and present – who have served as role models in this movement for female empowerment, helping me reach where I am today.
Marieke Koelewijn: I think we need more than a designated day to increase equality. Instead of having just one day, awareness should be raised all day, every day.
Elenna Garman: I’m thankful that I live in a progressive country. There are still strides to be made in equal opportunities, not to mention violence against women, but I’m so much better off here in the Netherlands than women in some other parts of the world. I don’t take this for granted.
Tara Phillips: It’s about celebrating the amazing achievements of women past and present, particularly to support our young women of the future.
Boukje van der Hoeden: It’s a powerful occasion to reflect on the progress made in the fight for gender equality, recognise the contributions of women throughout history, and consider the work that still needs to be done. Looking critically at myself: what can I do in my personal/professional life to make strides towards a more equitable world?
Marieke Sepers: It makes me realise that I’m lucky to live in a part of the world where women’s rights are supported, but also here there is still work to do – not just in terms of gender pay gap and equal paid parental leave, but also with better representation of women in areas like medical research and product design.
What advice would you give to young women starting their careers?
Sara Loschacoff: Prepare, make plans – but be able to change your plans as well. Just like in other fields in life, coincidence, improbabilities and detours often lead to the best people, places and things.
Tracy Melass: It’s a cliché but so full of truth: choose to do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life. A little Pollyannaish as we all have bad days at work, but it’s a good guiding rule.
Carla de Groot-Koelemij: When choosing a career, don’t only focus on what you’re good at – or what other people think you’re good at – think about what brings you joy and energises you. You might be very good at something but not enjoy doing it at all. In that case, keep looking!
Anke Claassen: Many women fall into the trap of wanting to be liked too much and being overly modest. While modesty is a virtue, there are moments when you may — indeed, should — have the courage to step into the spotlight.
Stacy Hyde: ‘Work hard and luck will follow’ has always been my mantra. Integrity is essential, and keep in mind that the connections you build will be with you throughout your career.
Curious about the Stampa team? Learn more about the wonderful women – and men – of Stampa.
