06 March 2020
It's International Women's Day (IWD) this Sunday, a day which celebrates the success of women across the globe. We're proud to champion women in business, so we wanted to mark this occasion by holding a Q&A with 5 female team members who have joined Haines Watts in the last year.
Katie Anderson (HR assistant)
Who is your female role model and why?
My role model has to be Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, as she's a modern day example of a woman who can do it all and 'run the world'. She represents female empowerment by challenging girls everywhere to be more confident, unique and individual. She's driven, talented, intelligent and focused, and someone who keeps pushing herself harder.
Why is IWD important to you?
It's a great opportunity to celebrate the inspiring and courageous work women around the world are doing to secure women's rights and shape more tolerant and equitable societies.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don't sweat the small stuff. Life goes on and you will survive any failure, and come out stronger, smarter and wiser.
Nicola Bell (Associate partner)
Who is your female role model and why?
Michelle Obama. She didn't come from a wealthy background, but still graduated from Harvard Law School, and focused her attention on poverty and education when she was first lady. She supports her husband and family, without losing a sense of self. I think she's proof that you can have it all.
Why is IWD important to you?
I think it's a really good opportunity for us to celebrate each other's successes. Sometimes it's easy for us to compare ourselves and pit ourselves against each other. So, it's great to have a day where we can really look at each other in a positive light.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be more confident! I think it can take a while to feel sure of yourself and confident in what you are doing. I wish I had realised this sooner!
Evie Moffett (Marketing and communications assistant)
Who is your female role model and why?
Ruth Bader Ginsberg. She was the second ever female justice of Supreme Court in America. She has fought for equality for both women and men her whole life, despite facing sexism throughout her career and education. She's proof that one person's effort can make real change, even at constitutional level.
Why is IWD important to you?
IWD gives us all the opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future achievements of women - whether they're standout moments in history, or day-to-day tasks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Until we have genuine equality throughout society, I think days like these are really important to recognise.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Good things come to those who wait.
Sam Glaister (Tax incentives and reliefs apprentice)
Who is your female role model and why?
I wouldn't say I have one particular female role model, as there's lots of aspects that I admire in many women. But, if I had to choose a women who really stands out to me, it would be Katherine Johnson. She was one of the 'computers' that helped calculate the orbit mechanisms for NASA for the first flight to space. She managed to progress in her career, whilst facing racism, sexism and setbacks in her family life.
Why is IWD important to you?
I think IWD should be more important and more known than it already is. Women have hugely progressed things in the past century, and women are still taking charge of change today. Greta Thunberg for instance, is still a child, yet she is making the world listen about climate change.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
If I could talk to my younger self, I'd tell her to stay true to herself.
Michelle Dixon (Team administrator)
Who is your female role model and why?
I would have to say my female role model is Victoria Beckham. She lives such a busy, fast paced lifestyle and has overcome many objections in the past. I feel that her determination and passion has enabled her to be as successful as she is today, running her own fashion business alongside raising a family. She's a great role model, not only for women my age, but for our future generation too.
Why is IWD important to you?
It is important to celebrate this day and ensure we carry this celebration on to our children. It is also uplifting to see women empower and support each other. Celebrating each other's success is what this day is all about.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
If I could speak to my younger self, I would tell her not to worry so much, everything works out in the end. I would also say that time goes by so quickly, so enjoy yourself as much as you can!
