By Vicki O’Halloran
As a national organisation working to reduce inequalities and promote equity of opportunity in the media industry, Women in Media play an essential role in improving the working conditions and opportunities for women in the media industry across Australia, and now in the Northern Territory. We know that equality in many spheres isn’t just going to happen. It is something we need to actively work towards.
And the opportunities, events and initiatives offered through this game-changing organisation ensure that women breaking down the barriers in the industry – all of you – feel heard, supported and connected.
Through mentorship, information and expertise-sharing; events focusing on the issues that matter to you; industrial pressure and advocacy; and working together through such an organisation gives us as women a stronger, more united platform through which to effect change.
In my experience, we achieve great things when we work together.
Supporting each other, building each other up, sharing our experience and knowledge.
Through working with rather than competing with each other we can improve opportunities for all.
I encourage you to use the opportunities provided through this platform.
Participate actively, pursue new information and learning.
Use these fresh networking opportunities to your advantage.
Share your experiences generously.
No matter our level of expertise we all have something unique to offer which may help someone else take their next step.
I also encourage you to be kind, and be responsible with your voice.
In the media you have tremendous capacity for reaching a wide audience, and the capacity to influence thoughts and opinions.
Consider your messaging carefully and, importantly, its intent.
Above all, as always, be brave. Vicki O’Halloran
Life is not always easy, but it is through difficult experiences that we learn and grow.
Grab new opportunities with both hands and, as my father used to say, “just put one foot in front of the other and meet things head on”.
I can guarantee that you are capable of much, much more than you think.
Go well. I wish you the very best as you move forward in your careers with the support of this important organisation.
This is an edited version of a speech delivered by Her Honour Vicki O’Halloran, Administrator of the Northern Territory, at a reception to mark the launch of Women in Media Northern Territory on June 20, 2019.