The next generation of female leaders from nearly 40 schools across the state have come together at Alberton for Power Community Limited’s (PCL) annual Empowered leadership event.
Made possible by the South Australian Women’s Fund, the event rounds out the delivery of the not-for-profits Empowered program in 2024 which works to arm students with an understanding of what constitutes a healthy relationship and foster a well-developed sense of self.
The Empowered Leadership Event was attended by more than 300 students who heard from key female leaders across several different industries to learn about breaking down gender stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Among the speakers on the day were Olympian Izzi Batt-Doyle, social entrepreneur Eloise Hall, the co-founder and Managing Director Taboo Period Products, and Megan Welsh Executive Manager - Domestic Violence, Homelessness & Youth Services at Centacare Catholic Community Services.
A host of Port Adelaide AFLW players including captain Janelle Cuthbertson also spoke and took questions on their individual journeys and succeeding in male dominated industries.
General Manager of PCL, Jake Battifuoco reflected on the importance of both the annual event and overarching program delivery.
“The annual Empowered Leadership event builds on our Empowered program delivered in schools across the year,” Mr. Battifuoco said.
“It’s an important event to empower and inspire young women, and ensure we play a role in equipping them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and confidence to breakdown gender stereotypes to succeed both personally and professionally.
“Both the program curriculum and event are designed for participants to gain a greater understanding of the social, cultural, and economic factors that contribute to gender inequality, to enable them to effectively challenge gender stereotypes, overcome societal barriers and develop a strong sense of self-worth.
“I’d like to thank our event partner, the South Australian Women’s Fund, and our program partners Centacare Catholic Community Services and the Department for Education.
“Their support is invaluable in ensuring we can continue to deliver and grow the programs and address societal issues at a grassroots level”.
Since the program commenced in 2020, more than 6000 young women have participated in school workshops, including more than 1800 this year.
With demand for the charity’s Respectful Relationships program increasing, PCL have also recently commenced the development of a Youth Advisory Committee designed to help shape the future of the charity’s respectful relationships programs including Power to End Violence Against Women and Empowered.