What❜s On For International Women❜s Day In Sydney

 International Women's Day (IWD) 2024 is knocking on our doors, and this year, it's all about lighting the fire of 'Inspire Inclusion.' 

It's our annual reminder to pat ourselves on the back for the incredible strides we've made and to gear up for the leaps we're yet to take. This IWD, we're not just celebrating us; we're pushing for real change and championing the cause of every woman, in every corner of the globe.

So, grab your capes (and maybe a glass of your favourite bubbly) because we're diving into a series of events that scream empowerment and joy.

'Inspire Inclusion': Let's Break Those Glass Ceilings Together

This year's theme is a massive shoutout to diversity in the big chairs—yes, leadership and decision-making roles, ladies! We've all been there, bumping into barriers on our way up, especially our sisters from underrepresented backgrounds. 'Inspire Inclusion' is here to tell us that it's time to shake things up. Imagine a world where our workplaces and communities are as diverse as the families we love and raise. That's the goal. And with a little nudge in the right direction, through education and awareness, we're paving the way for women to smash those glass ceilings.

Related: 10 Strong Women to Teach Your Children About: Inspiration for the Next Generation

March in Sydney is buzzing with IWD 2024 vibes, from thought-provoking talks at the All About Women Festival to hands-on empowerment at the Loving Me Masterclass. Whether you're in the mood to debate gender justice, sip tea while plotting the next big move for women's progress, or get the little ones involved in sports, Sydney's got you covered.

Let's make this International Women's Day a moment of celebration, education, and a big leap towards inclusion for all our daughters, sisters, and friends. Get ready to join the movement, and let's inspire inclusion together!

1. All About Women Festival 2024
 

 

Dive into the heart of gender, justice, and equality discussions at the Sydney Opera House's All About Women festival. Celebrated annually around International Women’s Day, this cornerstone event has been sparking inspirational dialogues and setting the agenda for over a decade.

From thought-provoking talks to creative art activations, the 2024 lineup promises an array of enriching experiences. Highlights include Mary Beard's insights, moderated by Bri Lee, and discussions on pressing topics like "Yellowface," "Feminist Roast," "Our Bodies," and the critical look at "Slowing Down Fast Fashion." Engage in vibrant conversations about "The Beauty Trap," "Daddy Issues," and explore the evolving roles of "Influencers as the New Public Intellectuals."

With sessions like "Taking Action on Gender-Based Violence" and creative workshops, there's something for everyone aiming to explore the depths of feminist thought and action. Don’t miss this enlightening festival, a beacon for change and understanding in today's world.

Where:  Sydney Opera House
When:   10 March 2024

2. Loving Me Masterclass: Journey to Self-Love & Empowerment

Dive deep into the realms of self-love and empowerment at the Loving Me Masterclass hosted at Marrickville Library and Pavilion. This workshop is designed to inspire and empower attendees through interactive activities and insightful discussions.

Where:  Marrickville Library and Pavilion
When:   10 March 2024, from 10 am to 2 pm

3. International Women's Day 2024 Lunch

Celebrate International Women's Day 2024 with a purpose at a special fundraising lunch on Saturday, 9 March at 11am.

This enriching event aims to honor, empower, and support the remarkable women in our lives through engaging discussions and activities. Esteemed speakers Rujuta Ranade, Dr. Preeti Choudhary, and Dr. Mohita Choudhary will share valuable insights on cardiovascular health, mental health, and Ayurvedic practices. A panel discussion featuring women who have carved unique career paths to effect community change promises to inspire.

There's also something for the younger attendees with art play and creative activities designed for the little women among us. All proceeds from this event will benefit Pratham.org, dedicated to empowering women in India through education. Your ticket ensures a day filled with canapés, bubbles, lunch, and a jam-packed agenda aimed at educating, motivating, and inspiring. Set in the accessible Kensington Park Community Center, it's the perfect opportunity to gather friends for a fabulous day out.

Where:  Kensington Park Community Centre
When:   Saturday, 9 March 2024, from 11 am to 2 pm

4. High Tea Event at Novotel Sydney Darling Square

Embrace the spirit of International Women's Day at the "Count her in: invest in Women. Accelerate Progress" High Tea Event, a vibrant afternoon of networking, learning, and empowerment. Hosted by the dynamic Mundanara Bayles, Managing Director of The Black Card, this event promises to place equality at the forefront of discussions, inspiring attendees with keynote speeches and insights from a panel of successful women mentors.

The panel boasts influential figures like Ashlee Donohue, CEO of Mudgin-Gal Aboriginal Women’s Centre in Redfern; Ann-Mason Furmage, a stalwart Disability Advocate and Ambassador for the International Day of People with Disability 2023; and Adrian Williams, the Chief Operating Officer PME - Pacific at Accor. Together, they will share their journeys and celebrate the economic, political, social, and cultural achievements of women from all walks of life.

Set in the elegant Darling Harbour Room at the Novotel Sydney Darling Square, guests will enjoy a fabulous afternoon not to be missed. A portion of the ticket sales is earmarked for the Mudgin-Gal Aboriginal Corporation, making participation not just an act of celebration but also one of support for an important cause. Priced at $87 per person, this High Tea Event on Friday, 8 March 2024, from 2:30pm to 4:30pm, is an excellent opportunity to commemorate International Women's Day with flair and purpose.

Where:  Novotel Sydney Darling Square - Darling Harbour Room
When:   Friday 8 March, 2024, 2:30pm - 4:30pm

5. Lake Mac Women in Sport Festival

 

The Lake Mac Women in Sport Festival is a beacon of celebration, aiming to highlight the athletic prowess of women athletes, both local and national, across professional and amateur levels. Set against the backdrop of 126-138 Main Rd, Speers Point, from 2 to 10 March 2024, this festival is about boosting awareness of the myriad health and social benefits sport and exercise offer.

Free to attend, the festival is a call encouraging women and girls to stay active through all stages of life, offering hands-on experiences with a variety of sports and facilitating engagement with local sporting groups and organisations. 

This inclusive annual event spans sporting events, festivals, celebrations, community gatherings, and educational workshops, ensuring there's something for everyone. From those taking their first step into a sport to aspiring athletes, coaches, and sports administrators looking to broaden their horizons, the festival is a ground for inspiration and challenge.

It's a family affair; fathers, sons, brothers, partners, and friends are encouraged to support their female counterparts, participating and sharing in the festival's rich experiences.

Where: 126-138 Main Rd, Speers Point
When: 2 March to 10 March 2024

6. 'Try a Sport' Family Day

Get active and ignite your passion for sports at the exhilarating Try a Sport Day! Happening on 3 March 2024, from 10am to 2pm at Speers Point Park, this event is a golden opportunity for families to dive into the world of sports. With an array of local sporting organisations ready to showcase, you'll get to test your skills, boost your coordination, and maybe even fall in love with a new sport—all for free!

The day is packed with fun, interactive activities suitable for everyone in the family, making it the perfect outing. Plus, the event supports The Sports Bra Project, a fantastic initiative aiming to increase sports access for women and girls by providing essential sports bras to those in need. Donations of new sports bras with tags are welcome, and a QR code for cash donations will be available.

Don't miss the special demonstrations, including an ActiveStrongerBetter class to enhance your strength and coordination, a Women's Empowerment Session by Hunter Valley Martial Arts focusing on self-defence and confidence, and a relaxing Yoga Class by YogaforMama. It's a day not just to try sports but to embrace the joy and community they bring.

Where: Speers Point Park 
When:  3 March 2024, from 10 am to 2 pm

7. Wellbeing Through Art

Celebrate IWD 2024 with "Wellbeing Through Art," a unique collaboration between Accessible Arts and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This event, happening both in-person at the Art Gallery and online via livestream on Wednesday 6 March from 6pm to 8pm, followed by networking until 9pm, dives deep into the intersection of art, health, and wellbeing. Featured speakers include visual artist Emma Rani Hodges, clinical psychologist Jane Miskovic-Wheatley, dancer Laura Osweiler, comedian Celia Pacquola, and Emily Sullivan, assistant curator of contemporary international art at the Art Gallery.

The event promises to be an engaging exploration of the benefits of art, showcasing how diverse creative expressions can foster health and wellbeing. It's a sensory-friendly event that doesn't require bookings for in-person attendance, welcoming the first 200 guests. For those joining online, registration is essential to access the livestream.

Accessibility is a cornerstone of this event, with services including Auslan interpretation, open and closed captioning, ensuring it's welcoming to all. Whether you're joining to learn, be inspired, or support the integration of art into wellbeing practices, this event stands as a testament to the power of creative expression in enhancing our lives.

Where:  Accessible Arts Studio, Sydney
When:   Wednesday 6 March 6pm - 8pm

More Newsy Reads

Ham and Cheese Toasties Banned in Schools: Nutrition Overreach or Healthy Move?
The Swift Effect: Why Taylor's Tour Is Music to Parents' Ears
Understanding School Zone Rules in Australia: The Ultimate No-BS Guide

Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!