For the third consecutive year, the Australian and British Chambers of Commerce in Macao, AustCham and BritCham joined forces to host a panel debate discussing ‘Embrace Equity’ for International Women’s Day.
Building on the 2023 International Women’s Day theme of ‘Embrace Equity’, the panel comprised of a diverse line up of leaders from organizations in Macao that have seen the implications of gender equity, featuring:
| Jingbo Huang: | Director of the United Nations University Research Institute in Macau |
| Joanna Tam: | Palliative Care Nurse in Macao and Certified Dementia Care Planner |
| Michelle Garnaut AO: | Founder and Chief Executive Officer, M Restaurant Group |
| Host and AustCham Chairman Janet McNab: | Multi-Property Vice President Sheraton Grand Macao and The St. Regis Macao |
AustCham Chairman and Multi-Property Vice President of Sheraton Grand Macao and The St. Regis Macao Janet McNab and BritCham Chairman Keith Buckley were thrilled to see the Chambers host the event on International Women’s Day at The St. Regis Macao. Ms. McNab said it was a great honour to be part of an annual celebration across the world that honors the achievements and contributions of women, while challenging the oppression they continue to face around the globe.
Ms. McNab acknowledged that gender equity is both a fundamental human right, and a solution to some of our greatest global challenges. “There is a gender problem that needs to be fixed, and whilst the battle is far from over, days like today help us remind ourselves that the challenges and obstacles that women face will always evolve and we need input from women if we are to overcome them,” said Ms. McNab.
“Macao is home to so many women in positions of leadership – and it’s an honour to know and work with so many as they build, innovate and lead every day. Despite the challenges and ever-changing business landscape, we need to lead by example, sustain and build on the gains made in senior leadership and strengthen efforts at every level within the organisation.”
“Together we can work collectively to impact positive change and encourage our community to embrace equity,” Ms. McNab added.
Mr. Buckley said “International Women’s Day represents an opportunity to focus on the global need for gender equity education and is a global day celebrating women’s achievement. The day marks a call to raise awareness about discrimination and act to drive gender parity.”
“Collectively, everyone can strive for gender equity and continue to make positive gains towards a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, and where difference is valued and celebrated. We can all play a part and actively support and embrace equity,” Mr. Buckley added.
The origins of International Women’s Day date back to 1917 when women textile workers in Russia protested, to demand voting rights. International Women’s Day is now a globally recognised day of celebrations, first acknowledged by the United Nations in 1975.
The proceeds of the International Women’s Day event of 70 thousand patacas will be donated to the Good Shepherd Sisters to support their work, uplifting the welfare of women and girls, especially those marginalised by society.
