Blackfriars celebrates International Women’s Day

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day (8 March) is, “Generation Equality”.

Blackfriars shares this vision of UN Women, in calling for justice for all peoples; we call for an end to gender discrimination and domestic and family violence; we call for fundamental respect for the needs and rights of all women and girls in our world.

We believe that small actions can have big impacts in making this vision a reality, and that starting the conversation within our schools is a great place to begin.

Today our Prefects take the lead in starting conversations about #GenerationEquality, by distributing purple ribbons to each and every homeroom for students to assemble and wear throughout the day.

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The Prefects also hosted a celebratory morning tea for all female staff members, to thank them for their contributions to the Blackfriars community. Students and staff discussed the importance of generational change and the ways in which we hope our Prefects will apply the lessons learnt at school to make a difference in the world, particularly in regards to gender equality. Frank Snelling took the lead in thanking female staff members for being strong role models for their students, and for making such an impact on their lives and worldviews. Some of our female staff were at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre for the Primary Swimming Carnival, but the Prefects made sure they didn’t miss out and delivered a platter of scones to them as well.

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Finally, the Prefects were asked to share a short blurb about an inspirational woman in their lives. Many of us can relate to the profound impact of mothers in shaping our values and beliefs, and so it is no surprise that the Prefects chose to take this opportunity to thank their mums. Here’s what they had to say…

“When I think about an influential woman in my life, I think immediately about my mother. Over the past 17 years, my mum has taught me many lessons with the way that she has lived (and continues to live) her life. She is my best friend, philosopher, guide, mentor, tutor, financial advisor, agony aunt and everything in between, and she continues to guide and nurture me into becoming the person I am today. Some of her lessons which have resonated with me, would be:

• Stand up for what you believe in no matter what the cost.
• Be strong, especially in tough times.
• Never pass up the opportunity to show compassion
• Patience is the difference in your dreams coming true or not

I hope that one day, I will be able to be a half the person she is today.”
Peter Le, Head Prefect

“Inspiration comes in many forms; for me it comes in the shape of my mum. An amazing, strong, hard-working and wise woman who I look up to every day. Whether it be small lines of advice before a test, or her loving embrace after rough day, she is one of the biggest role models in my life. 

Recognising International Women’s day at an all boys school is incredibly important. At Blackfriars, we are educating fine young men, and part of being a fine young man is respecting all women, and acknowledging the impact they have on our lives.”
Armon Houshmand

“My mum is the woman who inspires me the most. She always puts the needs of her family before her own needs and does everything she can to help me and make me happy! My mum is hardworking, humble and caring, and that’s why she inspires me!”
Frank Snelling

“In my life I’ve encountered countless people who have inspired me; however, one of my biggest inspirations and definitely the most prominent is my mum. She spends time caring for others both in her family and at her workplace. She has taught me throughout all 17 years of my life and continues to teach me valuable life lessons each and every day. Thank you to all the women who serve as role models and inspirations all around the world.”
Trung Nguyen

“The woman who inspires me is my mum. She is the best in the world because she is always there for me and supports me in anything I do. She means the world to me and I am grateful for everything! Love you mum!!”
Gianni Macolino

“A woman that has a great effect on my life is my mum. My mum is a guardian in my life, leading me to be the best version of myself. My mum has helped me develop into the man I am today and without her I wouldn’t be who I am. I am so thankful for my mum, and love her very much.”
Adriano Caiazza

“Thanks mum for taking care of me, teaching me, being patient with me and loving me to the best of your ability. You’re my best friend and thank you for everything you have done for me.”
Minh-Khoi Tran