Put your hand up and challenge the status quo...

Kylie Porter Development + Innovation manager for Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) can’t wait until balance is the everyday norm.

Photo: Coffee and Hops

Kylie Porter can’t wait for a time when we don’t need one day to highlight the role of women – that balance is just the everyday norm.

 “A controversial statement I know.”

 However, in saying that, Kylie believes International Women’s Day is a good opportunity to shine a spotlight on the many opportunities that exist for women in the world today.

 So how does Kylie think we can be a more gender-balanced society?

 “To me the answer is really simple and possibly naive but here goes - offer a more balanced opinion. 

“Consider the new, different, unusual from a more balanced perspective.  Think before you speak or type. 

“The world HAS changed and it’s important that our attitudes, opinions and bias also changes to keep in step,” she said.

 Kylie doesn’t identify as an activist or leader in the Mackay community but, rather loves what she does in the community she lives in.

 She believes the way we effect change is to lead by example and then put into place policy and process to support those changes.

 “So, if we are looking for more female political representation – put your hand up and challenge the status quo of male dominated politics. 

“We can’t complain that there are not enough women in leadership positions when not enough women are wanting to participate in those positions. 

 “Yes, I know there is added complications of most women being primary care givers in families and those associated limitations on careers, but we also need to create a culture of women wanting these leadership roles and making it happen!  I promise you, it is changing.  Slowly but surely.”

 When it comes to the leading ladies in her life, Kylie has been lucky to have a group of girlfriends she has known since she was 12, Liz Crowe, Helen Stower, Denise Philips, Karen Fitzgibbons, Laurice Burke and Paula Roberts.

“They are all exceptionally strong and brave. 

“They are leaders in their fields.  They are raising wonderful girls and boys to be the best humans they can be.  And most importantly, they are just fine individuals who understand that power of friendship,” she said.

Words with Heart: Fallon Drewett

Photo Love: Coffee and Hops