I came home last night with a funny feeling in my stomach that only occurs after I get a bit worked up about something. This time, it was the inequalities that are still inherent in our culture. Differences that are so deeply entrenched, that not only do we  not question them, we do not  even see them.

It was a theme that has  been repeatedly popping up, especially over the last week. Reading an article on gender flipping, I saw how images we take for granted are clearly ridiculous and sexualised, when men are placed in the same position. My sister told me about a talk she went to yesterday, about how women are still not reaching the top positions, and how only three men showed up to listen. This growing frustration within me overflowed last night at a party, and turned  into a heated discussion about the sexualisation of women.

I woke quite discouraged, and not sure how to feel about anything. I checked Facebook to discover my newsfeed packed with countless posts by both women and men about inspirational women. I decided no, this is International Women’s Day,a day to celebrate  women, all of them,  and everything they can and will achieve. It is a day to focus on successes, not downfalls and a  day to recognise that men too have unreal expectations and gender roles to live up to.

I started to think about all the wonderful women in my life and their incredible strength. The first woman that came to mind is my Mum. From a little girl, I was always told I could choose to do whatever I want, and choose not to do whatever I didn’t want to do. The first time I asked Mum if I could buy a razor to shave my legs, she asked me, why? My Mum taught me to question, the most important tool we have. It is the only way to truly notice inequalities hidden beneath the intricate fabric of culture.

She taught me to be kind, by always being kind to me. She taught me to be respectful, by  always respecting me. I remember Mum spanking me only once, and afterwards she came to my room to apologise. She taught me so many things by example, by being the wonderful woman she is.

My thoughts went onto how my Mum learnt these skills, and I think part of it is from her Mum – my wonderful Grandma, who has always been a source of love, warmth, and delicious pumpkin scones.

I thought about my sisters. Memories of playing shadow puppets, eating copious amounts of cheese and chocolate, watching terrible, corny television shows with them, and their being a source of advice and openness, flood my mind. I admire Julia’s sense of humour, her incredible sensitivity and ability to cheer me up, her amazing intelligence, and her unwavering commitment to family. Lisa’s determination never ceases to amaze me. Whether it is in her studies, her professional life, her art, or in a yoga class, she always pushes to the next level, and does so without a complaint. They have always been a source of inspiration and guidance in my life. When making decisions, I often find myself asking what they would do in the situation I’m in.

I thought about my sister-in-law and sister-in-law to be (right Mic?). I don’t remember a time when Kristy wasn’t around, her incredible energy and willingness to embrace life inspiring me to go and experience everything I can. And Jane is a person who notices the things about people that no one else does, showing her incredible thoughtfulness.

I thought about my brothers, and my Dad. The role they have had in shaping me, and the women in our family. My Dad, an amazing advice-giver and fix-it man. Whenever I have a problem, I go to him. Tom, the guy that can get along with everyone, so sure in himself and so caring. Michael, one of the smartest people I know, and passionate about innovation and quirky new things. Together, we make an amazing team – the Bolds.

Our team is made up of both genders, but today is about the women. I look at the women in my life and realise if I have come to know so many amazing individuals in the small amount of time I have been on this Earth, how many other incredible women are out there that I have not yet met, some of whom I never will?

This day is for every single one of you, to realise your potential, your beauty, your influence and your crucial role in the world. To the women already in my life, and ones who will enter as I continue on this wonderful journey, I thank you. I thank you for being so inspiring and for giving me hope. For curling my lips into a smile and lighting up my eyes. For making me fall in love with life and for being you!