Today is International Women’s Day.
As the CEO of the College I am very happy to take a moment today, 8 March 2018, to reflect on the work we do here at Macquarie Community College (MCC) and how it empowers women to reach their potential. We believe that participation in quality life-long learning is transformational.
At MCC we delight in creating and delivering learning opportunities that enable our learners to climb the ladder of learning. It is also important to recognise the role of the staff and our directors in making this happen – the majority of whom are women.
Today I celebrate that we are here to support the learning journey of the thousands of women enrolled each year in our courses – whether that be a journey to improve their English, to start on a new career by completing a qualification or taking part in a French, upholstery or yoga class to keep their minds sharp, their hands busy or their bodies agile.
It is not just what they learn that helps empower the women of MCC – but the friendships they make, the role models they meet along the way and the increased confidence and self-esteem they gain from acquiring new skills and knowledge and a senses of achievement.
RESPECT – A SHARED VALUE
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is RESPECT – this is also one of the 5 core values of Macquarie Community College along with integrity, diversity, collaboration and commitment.
Here at the College we define RESPECT as:
We recognise and support the rights, differences and dignity of students, staff and community members.
What does that mean every day?
- We value the feelings, wishes, opinions and rights of others
- We care and empathise
- We treat each other with courtesy and politeness
- We listen and are responsive
Some examples of how we put that into practice at MCC include;
- Recognising that our students and colleagues have rights, opinions, wishes, experience, and competence.
- Communicating clearly and respectfully with each other, students, clients, members and stakeholders, especially those from non-english speaking backgrounds.
- Treating people the same no matter their race, faith, gender, size, age, disability or country of origin.
- Listening, asking questions and understanding what is really being said
- Asking for input, consulting on the potential impact of change
- Treating people with kindness and civility
- Being mindful of our tone, demeanour and body language
Enjoy the day and take a moment to celebrate the fabulous women in your life that have made a difference, that have empowered you and helped you reach your potential – and while you are at it pick up the phone or send them an email to say 'Thank you'!