Freshwater: International Women’s Day 2022

Every year, on 8 March, International Women’s Day (IWD) presents an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias, and we’ve caught up with some of our newest recruits to find out more about their first female role models.

Elli Lloyd, Digital Intern

Elli is a recent Digital Marketing Management graduate who joined the Freshwater digital team in January.

When asked who her first role model was, she said: “Like most young girls growing up in the early 2000s, I watched a lot of Disney films, specifically those that had a Disney princess. I dreamed that, like them, I would one day get to wear gowns, live in a palace and marry a prince.

“As I have grown older, my goals have become more realistic – I want to be a woman who my friends, family and self are proud of. That is why the Disney princess Mulan is one of the first role models I had. She taught me from a very young age how to be brave and take initiative to protect the people I love. She broke gender biases proving to be just as strong, determined, brave and resourceful as her male counterparts. In doing so, she made her family and town proud.

“I hope that by remembering the key values that I learned from her, I will make the young girl who dreamed of being a princess one day proud.”

Alfie Hood, Conference Producer Intern

Alfie is a University of Southampton graduate working within Waterfront Conference Company.

He said: “While it might be difficult for me to recall my first female role model, Angela Merkel is a woman that is particularly inspiring. I may not agree with all her policies, but the ability to consistently compete in a political arena that is traditionally dominated by men is incredibly impressive.

“Retaining leadership of Europe for over 15 years and fostering positive relationships and stability is another impressive, and often overlooked, achievement – making her a notable role model and important part of history.”

Emel Adak, Events Assistant Intern

Before joining Freshwater in the role of Events Assistant Intern, Emel worked in the US for a year.

On International Women’s Day, she said: “A role model of mine is Oprah Winfrey. It’s so inspiring how, despite her tumultuous early life, she moved past that to become globally successful. Along with this, she uses her fame to create a positive and meaningful effect in the world.”

Natalie Earley, Account Assistant Intern

Natalie joined Freshwater in November and works within the private sector marketing and communications division.

She said: “My first female role model would have to be my mum. When I was younger, she suffered badly with her mental health and had to be admitted to hospital. I didn’t really understand it at the time, but through growing up and dealing with my own troubles, I can see how brave she was to ask for help. I feel proud that she managed to get herself better as it’s not an easy thing to do.”

Shauna Jones, Account Assistant Intern

Also joining Freshwater in November was Shauna who works in our public sector team.

She completed her Master of Arts in December.  Speaking of her role models, she said: “My first female role models were my mum and nan. They’re two of the strongest, kindest and most supportive people who I know and I’m so grateful that I’ve had them to look up to.

“They’ve always encouraged me to be myself, achieve my goals and are the first people to congratulate me when I achieve them.”