Empowering Women: Voices from BSB Leaders

Nursery Teacher Ms. Carol spearheaded the nursery students' exploration to discover the number of women in leadership roles. In a bid to enhance our understanding of International Women's Day, we proceeded with interviewing the women in leadership positions within our school. This endeavor not only encouraged us to step out of our comfort zones but also enlightened us on the importance of asking questions and gaining insights about our school leaders.

Here are the reflections from the women in leadership:

Ms. Jayne

When Ivanshika asked Ms. Jayne about her favourite woman, she mentioned her mother and daughter. Mara's curiosity led her to ask about Ms. Jayne's favourite cartoon, to which she replied "Danger Mouse" for its bravery and humor. Derrick inquired about her preferred book, and she expressed her love for "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" by Richard Bach, highlighting the theme of individual differences and strengths. Lastly, Roselyn, Alina and Elena asked what advice Ms. Jayne would give to the girls in the school, to which she encouraged them to pursue leadership roles they aspire to in the future.

Ms. Abigail

During the interaction, Marcel asked Ms. Abigail about the special woman in her life, and she promptly showed a picture of her mum. Others also shared how their mums were special to them. Ashley and Olivia, in soft voices, asked Ms Abigail about her favourite book, to which she answered 'Matilda' due to the character's intelligence and powers. Connor and Richard inquired about her favourite cartoon, and she mentioned 'Mulan' for showing that girls can achieve a lot through determination. Isabel Allen was curious and asked what advice she would give to the girls in school, to which she recommended being intelligent like Matilda and strong like Mulan.

When Mia asked about her favourite quote, Ms. Abigail shared, "Walk in different spaces and own it." Mason later inquired about her favourite inspirational person, and she promptly showed a picture of Michelle Obama, expressing admiration for her message "When others go low, you go high". The children left feeling more enlightened about different inspiring women.

Ms Brown

Ms. Brown engaged with a couple of curious students who had various questions in anticipation of International Women's Day. Owen and Robby inquired about her favourite cartoon, to which Ms. Brown mentioned "The Magic School Bus" for its educational adventures inside the human body, space, and water. Elias asked about her favourite woman in life, and she spoke fondly of her mother, highlighting her care, friendship, and shared holiday memories. Isabel Allen asked about her favourite book, to which Ms. Brown replied with "Tracy Beaker," admiring the character's bravery, adventure, and humor.

Shy Roy approached Ms. Brown asking, can you tell us of a famous woman, Ms. Brown pointed out Greta Thunberg for her planet-protecting efforts. They discussed the importance of trees and environmental care. Alina inquired about advice for the girls in school, and Ms. Brown passionately emphasized that they could achieve anything they dream of breaking gender stereotypes in career choices. The conversation highlighted that both males and females can pursue any career they desire, emphasising empowerment and equality.

Ms. Deborah

Elena inquired, "What advice do you have for the girls in the school?" Debs replied, "Work incredibly hard and always trust in your capabilities." Isabel asked, "Who is the special woman in your life?" Debs shared that her mother holds that place. When Richard inquired about her favourite cartoon character, she mentioned Tinkerbell, highlighting how Tinkerbell learns from mistakes and sets them right, emphasising the importance of learning from errors. Mary, a nurse, is Debs' admired woman. Richard mentioned his doctor mother, and Alina shared that her mom is a nurse. Ms. Debs also revealed that her favourite book is "Dear Green Peace" because Emily finds a whale in her pond and does everything she can to make it happy and healthy again.

Ms. Jessie

Jessie was greeted by the nursery students who had questions about celebrating International Women's Day. Curious Zoey asked Jessie who her favourite woman is and why. Jessie replied that her favourite woman is her grandma because she worked really hard taking care of her from a young age until she turned 18. Allen was curious about her favourite cartoon character, to which Jessie answered Barbie because she finds her not only beautiful and always kind, but also intelligent and independent. Ashley also shared that she loves Barbie. When Mara asked Jessie what advice she would give to girls, she said to enjoy life and not to be afraid to speak out when facing difficulties. Granniel inquired about the most influential woman Jessie knows, and she mentioned Matilda because she loves reading books, admires her bravery, and intelligence. It was an enlightening session for everyone involved.

Ms. Juliana

Ms. Juliana expressed during the interview that her special woman is her hardworking mother who now enjoys playing golf. When Sam inquired about her favourite woman, Ms. Juliana mentioned Margot Robbie for her promotion of women in writing and producing movies. Aiden asked about her favourite book, and Ms. Juliana shared that it is "Jar of Happiness”, a book which describes how a little girl was able to find happiness in everyday things, even when she couldn’t find her trusted jar of happiness. Ms Juliana also told the students about “Joy", a character from the movie 'Inside Out' who’s goal is to lift up others and spread joy. Lastly, Isabel asked for advice for the girls in the school, which was, to find joy in everything they do.

Ms. Smith

Elias inquired, "Ms. Smith, who is a special woman in your life?" Ms. Smith replied, "My mum, as she has always inspired me to strive beyond the ordinary." Matthew asked, "What advice can you give the girls in school ? Ms. Smith said that they can pursue any career they desire when they grow up, even if the jobs are traditionally seen as male-dominated?" Aiden inquired, "Who is your favourite cartoon female character?" Ms. Smith shared that her favourite is Moana because she embodies persistence, community connection, self-empowerment, and emphasises the power of words. She showcased her favourite book, "We Are Water Protectors," and highlighted Michelle Obama as her admired female figure for her strong character and dedication to promoting education for girls.

Ms. Sophie

Sophie from the marketing department, when asked by Roselyn who her special woman in life was, mentioned her mother, noting that she provides a lot of help and support. When Marcel inquired about the woman she likes, she mentioned Pippi as she finds her brave. Ryan asked about her favourite cartoon, and she said Mickey Mouse, as it always brings happiness. Sofia asked her what message she would give to the girls in school, and Sophie emphasized the importance of always seeking happiness from bottom of your own heart instead of waiting to be given.

Thank You Ms. Carol