"I truly believe women can multitask - they can have it all"
Zena K'dor.
International Women’s Day is always a special date in the K’DOR calendar. It’s the perfect time to stand in solidarity and lift each other up as we celebrate the achievements of women.
Abbey Gelmi - Television Presenter and Journalist
Who are the women in your life who have been your biggest mentors, and how have they shaped your path?
My biggest mentor personally would be my beautiful mum. She has such a positive outlook on life and can always find silver linings. Now I'm a mother myself, I treasure our relationship even more. And professionally it would be the incomparable Bec Maddern. We shared an office the last few years and I'm very fortunate to now call her a dear friend. Joh Griggs is also someone I can always lean on for advice and I admire her greatly.
What is one thing you’d like to see change in the way women are represented in the media and business?
As a woman in media myself this question is a complex one, but personally I'd like to see more representation of women in sport. I pride myself on trying to be the best example I can be for those who come next, and am so fortunate to have had pioneers before me break down the glass ceiling. But progress isnt necessarily linear so it's now our job to show the sky's the limit.
What role does kindness play in your life, and how can women uplift one another through kindness?
Kindness is central to who I try to be. Women are often pitted against each-other, especially in media, and it can be very easy to fall into a competitive mindset. I've found so much joy in celebrating and cheering the loudest for my friends, and am lucky to be surrounded by examples of kindness from those I'm closest to everyday.
What do you wish young women knew about the importance of listening to their inner voice and trusting their intuition more?
Your intuition is so important to guiding you to who you are meant to be and staying true to your authentic-self. Any time I've ignored my gut feeling on something, I'd wished I hadn't. Sometimes it's not a roar but a gentle whisper calling you in a different direction. The key is to find the bravery to follow it, something I'm still learning but am getting much better at as I get older.
Do you have a particular jewellery piece that you love and why?
I adore my engagement ring and all it represents. I'm very, very lucky and am grateful everyday.
Amy Jean - Director Amy Jean Brow Agency
Who are the women in your life who have been your biggest mentors, and how have they shaped your path?
My ballet teacher of over 12 years. She was an overt disciplinarian. I mean “terrifying” in the most respectful way. Upon reflection I’m so grateful for her instilling such commitment and dedication in my formative years. Slacking off wasn’t an option! Equally my biggest mentor is my mother, Frances, she finds joy and positivity in seemingly mundane things. It’s truly fascinating how her presence just makes people smile and we can laugh until our sides ache!
What is one thing you’d like to see change in the way women are represented in the media and business?
I’ve only been shown tremendous support by the media in my 20 years in business. But I believe the women who fought for equality before this time , paved the way for women being celebrated in business today.
What role does kindness play in your life, and how can women uplift one another through kindness?
Kindness is imperative! For me it’s THE most important human virtue and one that elevates both parties! When I’m recruiting staff, my top priority is kindness. It is front and centre of what I reinforce daily with my young children. It builds genuine and strong relationships.
What do you wish young women knew about the importance of listening to their inner voice and trusting their intuition more?
I charged at my dreams in my early twenties. No business plan or contingency plan. It’s awfully cheesy but I sincerely believe in the power of manifestation. Don’t let anyone rattle your confidence.
Do you have a particular jewellery piece that you love and why?
I have a brooch that my grandmother (Jean) passed onto my mother, then onto me. I take it in my handbag everywhere I go. Every handbag swap, my little reminder of Jean is there in my makeup pouch.
Krissy Marsh - Australian TV Personality
Who are the women in your life who have been your biggest mentors, and how have they shaped your path?
The women who have been my biggest mentors in my life are my mother and my sisters. My mother has always been a source of strength and wisdom for our entire family. She taught me the value of perseverance and kindness, always encouraging me to pursue my dreams and never give up.
My sisters, each in their own way have also shaped my path. They've provided me with different perspectives, supported me through challenges, and held me accountable in ways only sisters can. My relationship with my mum and sisters is a constant reminder to me of the importance of building a strong support system.
What is one thing you’d like to see change in the way women are represented in the media and business?
One thing I’d love to see change is the shift from focusing on gender quotas to filling roles based on merit and skill in media and business. Instead of hiring women solely to fill a "diversity" requirement, the focus should be on selecting the best candidate for the role. This way everyone can be recognised for their own unique and individual abilities, leading to more equal opportunities across the board.
What role does kindness play in your life, and how can women uplift one another through kindness?
Kindness plays a fundamental role in shaping how we interact with others and in fostering positive environments, both personally and professionally.
When it comes to women uplifting one another, kindness is the most powerful tool. I think women should more often use kindness to break down societal barriers and create supportive networks. When mothers teach their children kindness from a young age they are laying the foundation for a future where women feel empowered to support one another and ensuring kindness always come first and foremost.
One way I personally practice this is through daily Random Acts of Kindness (RAKs). Doing things like complimenting an achievement, offering help when needed, or just being a listening ear. We are all responsible for building a society where women can thrive, feel valued, and are more willing to uplift each other in meaningful ways.
What do you wish young women knew about the importance of listening to their inner voice and trusting their intuition more?
I wish young women knew just how powerful their inner voice and intuition can be. There is so much wisdom in simply listening to your gut feeling. Our intuition is built on our life experience, our values, and our own personal insights. It is a tool that we are all born with and the best part is - it’s usually right. We just have to be brave and trust in it more often! By doing this we can make decisions with more confidence and more authenticity.
Do you have a particular jewellery piece that you love and why?
My engagement ring and wedding band that were redesigned by House of K’dor. The craftmanship and intricacy of these rings is incredible. For me what makes my jewellery even more special is the meaningful moments or significant life event they are tied to. They are truly a reflection of my story and carry important memories and emotions with them that I am constantly reminded of when I wear them.
Deborah Clay - Multi-award-winning Journalist, Speaker and Leadership Expert
Who are the women in your life who have been your biggest mentors, and how have they shaped your path?
I appreciate a community of women for their role in my life and career. As we mark International Women’s Day, I’d like to thank three women: Marina Go - a mentor who has generously shared her time and advice with me for over a decade, and Rosi Fernandez – Managing Director at La Prairie, whose leadership style I admire enormously. We may not have a traditional mentoring relationship, but my younger sister Melanie is an incredibly clever businesswoman, and our conversations catalyse positive change. The support of Marina, Rosi and Melanie has empowered me to prioritise innovation at the heart of my career.
What is one thing you’d like to see change in how women are represented in the media and business?
The representation of women in the media is improving - Gen Z can see strong females in hosting roles, and flexibility is improving. There’s still a lot of work to be done regarding women being appointed to top management roles, which impacts superannuation and access to bonuses.
What role does kindness play in your life, and how can women uplift one another through kindness?
Kindness starts with your words. If a woman has done a fantastic job, secured a promotion, or faced challenges - reach out, send that message, and express her value. Actions emerge from your thoughts and words, becoming self-actualising. Zena, the Creative Director of House of K’dor, exemplifies the transformative power of kindness, uplifting women through her grace.
What do you wish young women knew about the importance of listening to their inner voice and trusting their intuition more?
My observation would be Gen Z women are adept at sharing their values but may require someone else to recognise their leadership potential. Listening to your inner voice and relying less on external validation is a pathway to pursuing your goals authentically. When you consider the skills of the future – persuasive storytelling, AI and data fluency – together, we are in good hands.
Do you have a particular jewellery piece that you love and why?
I have a stunning ring from House of K’dor, which I love because it makes me feel happy. It is an exquisite work of art.
