The month of March is Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to observing the historical and current contributions of women to society. In the United States, President Jimmy Carter first declared the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week in 1980. Six years after, the National Women’s History Project petitioned to have the event encompass the whole month of March.
Here at Cubic, we place tremendous value in establishing an environment where women feel inspired and supported each and every day. In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked a few of our Cubic employees from across the globe what this month means to them, who inspires them and the valuable advice they’d give to our future generation of female leaders.
Zoe Yates, Director of Product Management at Vocality International, Cubic Mission Solutions (London, United Kingdom)
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
I’ve been raised in a country where women today are often considered equal to their male counter parts; however, this hasn’t always been the case. We find it easy to become accustomed to our fast-paced lifestyles and are often left with little time to reflect on what privileged lives we truly have today. Women’s History Month acts as a reminder that the equality we enjoy is the result of some hard-fought campaigning by many in our past, and that perhaps we should spare a few minutes to be thankful to those who have afforded us so much.
What is a valuable piece of advice you’d give to young female professionals?
Don’t be afraid to be different, to challenge the expected and to fight for what you believe. Be focused, be patient, be assertive but most importantly, be kind. Kindness costs nothing, but its value is priceless.
Christine Burnsides, Security Manager, Cubic Global Defense (San Diego, CA)
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women’s history month is a celebration of women’s courage and resolve to remove the cloak that blinds both men and women from acknowledging and respecting women’s true worth. It is an opportunity to express gratitude for all the women who selflessly paved the way for future generations of women to live life to the fullest and be steadfast contributors to society.
Who do you think is the most inspirational woman in history and why?
If I were to just select one who has inspired me in recent years, the woman who comes to mind is Malala Yousafzai. Her courage and wisdom are far beyond her age. Malala courageously fights for her rights and the rights of all women, even after the Taliban’s attempt to take her life. Her bravery and staunch determination are expressed in her words, “I don’t want to be remembered as the girl who was shot. I want to be remembered as the girl who stood up.”
Natasha McCallum-Abdo, Bid Manager, Cubic Defence Australia (Brisbane, Australia)
Who was your female role model growing up or do you have a current female figure that you look up to?
There are quite a few who have graced my life (some of whom have since passed). I was blessed to be raised in a diverse family filled with color, culture, strength and tenacity. If I had to name one person, it would be my aunt Judy. Having survived cancer, reached the top of her profession, played A-levels in her chosen sport, and beaten so many stereotypes as a gay woman who came out in the 1950’s, it’s no surprise that you would see her as an intimidating figure when you’re a child. When I told her that, her response was, “it’s your problem, not mine.” A bitter realization when you’re a kid, but very true.
What is a valuable piece of advice you’d give to young female professionals?
There are a few gems I would pass on, with the first being to provide a legacy to anyone who is willing to learn and share (for every day should be a school day). There is no team or community if you’re working solo, so foster that open and willing mindset from the outset and the rest will follow. Lastly, if you don’t ask, you don’t get (but ask nicely).
Krishna Desai, Senior Marketing Communications Representative, Cubic Transportation Systems (London, United Kingdom)
Who was your female role model growing up or do you have a current female figure you look up to?
I had many; Mother Teresa for her kindness and dedication, Princess Diana for her compassion and fearlessness, my aunt for her strength and perseverance. Most recently, my manager has been an inspiration to me; she has achieved so much at such a young age. She’s transparent, approachable, creative, understanding and always ensures she’s pushing you to reach your full potential and praising you once you’ve done it. If more females had role models/mentors like her in the world, women would definitely be breaking the glass ceiling.
Who do you think is the most inspirational woman in history and why?
There have been many inspirational women in history, but I’d like to highlight a modern day inspiration –J.K. Rowling. Harry Potter has become one of my generations all-time favorite books, recognized worldwide. It’s one of those books that we will read time and time again. The reason for my inspiration is because J.K Rowling was a single mother, struggling to make ends meet. All she did was persevere in her passion – writing! There is a theory; concentrate on your strengths and make it your unique selling point, that’s exactly what she did.