Empowering Young Women in the Mid Coast

Ahead of International Women’s Day 2026, Taree Universities Campus (TUC) partnered with Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) to host an inspiring morning dedicated to empowering young women from across the MidCoast.

On Tuesday, 3 March, Year 11 and 12 students from six local schools gathered at TUC for a thoughtful and uplifting event that celebrated the progress made by women in the region while looking toward the future.

Theme and Purpose

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, set the tone for the morning. Facilitated by Anna Godfrey, the session encouraged students to reflect on the remarkable women throughout history who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. The theme resonated strongly with attendees, sparking conversations about mentorship, reciprocity, and the power of lifting others as you climb.

Community Role Models

A highlight of the event was the opportunity for students to hear from four outstanding women from the local community who generously shared their personal journeys:

  • Gemma Pol

  • Louise Stack

  • Bree Wickenden

  • Chelsea Harvey

Each speaker discussed the women who influenced them, the challenges they navigated, and the advice they wish they’d known at a younger age. Their stories resonated deeply with the students, creating genuine moments of connection and inspiration. The subsequent Q&A session showcased the students’ curiosity and thoughtful engagement, with questions ranging from career pathways to work-life balance and overcoming self-doubt.

Building Connections

The morning concluded with a shared lunch, giving students the chance to reflect and connect with young women from other schools. These informal conversations extended the impact of the event beyond the formal program, fostering a sense of community among participants who may not have otherwise met.

Acknowledgments and Thanks

TUC extends sincere thanks to RIEP for their collaboration, to Anna Godfrey for her skilled facilitation, and to the four guest speakers who gave their time and wisdom so generously. We also thank the six participating schools for encouraging their students to attend.

Most importantly, we thank all the students who attended and participated with such enthusiasm. It was a privilege to witness your confidence, curiosity, and leadership. The future of the MidCoast is in capable hands, and we can’t wait to see the incredible futures each of you will create.

We asked the students to write three words to describe what the day meant to them, and what their key takeaways were:

Meredith Paige