Friday, March 7, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

From The Podium To The Boardroom

To celebrate and acknowledge International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to host
its annual business lunch to champion inclusivity and gender equity in the workplace.

The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Accelerate Action,” focusing on the need to
take swift and decisive steps to address the systemic barriers and biases that women face in
professional spheres.

At the current rate of progress, full gender parity won't be achieved until 2158, about five
generations from now, according to the World Economic Forum.

The annual business lunch features Olympic Champion Gold Medallist, Kerri Pottharst, who has
spent a lifetime decoding human high performance, and is a highly sought-after keynote
speaker, Global Sports Commentator, coach, and published author.

Renowned as one of the world's most fierce Volleyball competitors and Australia's most
decorated Indoor and Beach Volleyball player, Kerri has represented her country for an
incredible 20 years.

Business lunch attendees will be engaged by a thought-provoking panel discussion and have
the opportunity to network with accomplished professionals.

The panel will feature Taz Zammit, who is one of Australia's most followed personalities on
social media, with over 1 million global followers. Her dedication to inclusivity has led to
partnerships with global brands like Apple, Nike, and Netflix, and earned the TikTok LIVE
Creator of the Year Award and Best Business Creator Award. As a successful entrepreneur, Taz
is passionate about mentoring LGBTQ+ creators and young leaders, offering insights into the
creator economy.

"We believe a progressive and inclusive workforce is essential for driving innovation in today's
business environment. It is also proven that having women in the workplace increases safety
and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.

"Our International Women's Day business lunch has sold out for five consecutive years because
we bring together Central Queensland professionals to celebrate the unique and diverse roles
of women. This impactful event helps renew our shared commitment to creating more inclusive
organisations.”

This highly regarded business lunch is for professionals of all genders who are committed to
fostering inclusion and advancing the diversity of women's roles in the workplace.

Whether you're a business owner, manager, a team leader or team player, we are excited to
host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of
women across the region.

Early registration for our 2026 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this
year’s business lunch is sold out.

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