Female traders in Elsternwick Village share what International Women’s Day means to them

International Women’s Day means different things to different people – some see the day as an opportunity to celebrate women from all walks of life, while others use the day to continue advocating for equality.

Either way, the day brings an opportunity for us all to pause and reflect on how we can work together to achieve better unity.

From business owners to shopkeepers, these women in Elsternwick Village share what International Women’s Day means to them.

Nadine Levitan of Ruby’s Gifts:

“International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements and give them recognition for their achievements,” said Nadine Levitan of Ruby’s Gifts.

“It’s about giving women the recognition they deserve – a lot of women haven’t been recognised for their achievements as we live in a mostly male-dominated world.

“It’s also a day to make people aware of equality, and the importance of equality.

“My motto in life is: Behind every successful man there is a successful woman.”

Ritu Babbar of Yoga Tree:

“International Women’s Day means we are making progress towards standing alongside all human beings regardless of gender, race or culture,” said Ritu Babbar of Yoga Tree.

“Being a woman in business, it is important to me that women are respected, celebrated and recognised for all that they are and all that we do.”

Nicole Saade of Mother’s Instinct:

“International Women’s Day, to me, means celebrating women and what we bring to the world as a whole,” said Nicole Saade of Mother’s Instinct.

“Women have come so far in ‘working it out’ – including how to have children and still be able to have a career. It can be done, and no offence to men but they certainly cannot multi-task like us. It is a challenge, but we are rising to the occasion and are nailing it.”

Lyn Murphy of MBE Elsternwick:

“International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the achievements of women in business. In comparison to males, women had a later start in the commercial world for being recognised as able to contribute their skills and intelligence as business leaders,” said Lyn Murphy of MBE Elsternwick.

“Successful women are inspiring to me as their achievements seem braver, the steps they have taken towards their success have, quite often, not had an easy road to reach their goals.

“My achievements as a business owner have helped make me a stronger person. I am lucky to have had the full support of my husband and business partner, who has always made me feel very much an equal.

“To be able to empower my staff in their working journey is also very rewarding. Over the last 20 years we have seen at least 10 people develop and grow into other career paths – staying in touch and letting us know that they have been grateful for the experience our time together gave them.”