Reflections on Women Economic Forum 2019

By Allison Selman, WISE Chair

The Women Economic Forum (WEF) saw delegates from over 25 countries and shared their work and contribution towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Perth. It was an inspirational and uplifting weekend, to say the least. I connected and networked with many women and men from all walks for life, who are all passionate about improving the lives of women through economic empowerment.  

Professor Marion Kickett, Director of the Centre for Aboriginal Studies of Curtin University warmly welcomed the international delegation to country.  

Amongst the speakers, I was inspired by many. Benedicta Nanyonga, a 71-year old from Uganda who left her banking career and started her own business recycling plastic straws into bags; and now employs several thousand employees and is contracting to Coca-Cola. Aisha Suhail from Pakistan who started with the CARE Foundation as an ESL teacher and is now one of their Directors, managing 888 schools for under privileged children.  

Closer to home, Dr Anne Aly spoke passionately about her unplanned journey from being a counter-terrorism specialist into Australian politics and the challenges that she and other women still face in parliament today. And there was Marjorie Charleson, a legend in Ascot, galloping to success in the Golden Era of the WA racing industry – when asked about her challenges, said “I didn’t think about it – I just did it”.  

Throughout the forum, we were treated to the angelic voice and original songs by local singer and songwriter, Ezereve. She is not only talented, but also generous – with funds from her CD sales donated to stop modern slavery.  

I spoke at the Women in Resources and Global Trade session on how essential it is to have women in STEM professions to be able to solve numerous global sustainability issues. I also spoke about the many subsea career opportunities in the Life Below Water session, including my work for Atteris, Glass Bottom Films and Major Projects Foundation. I was so proud to be speaking with my WISE colleagues Sarah Watson and Lina Velosa, and my Platypus Charity colleague Robert Greer.  

Libby Lyons from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency presented the latest statistics for our nation and showed the slow pace of change in Australia. We have all the resources and opportunity to ensure equality for all.  I hope you work with me and for those around you, to make it happen.