IWD Stories

As a female founded company, for Billini, every day is International Women's Day.
This IWD, we're celebrating the diversity of roles and talent we have behind the brand, kicking off with our Founder & Creative Director, Susannah.

Meet the faces behind the brand:

SUSANNAH, FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
WENDY, FINANCIAL CONTROLLER & DATA LEAD
KATE, SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER
TASH, SENIOR PRODUCT DEVELOPER
LEXI, MARKETING ASSISTANT
ALEX, RETAIL PROJECT COORDINATOR
ANGELICA, CUSTOMER SERVICE & OPERATIONS MANGER
NAHREN, MACARTHUR SQUARE STORE MANAGER

IWD Stories

As a female founded company, for Billini, every day is International Women's Day. This IWD, we're celebrating the diversity of roles and talent we have behind the brand, kicking off with our Founder & Creative Director, Susannah.

Meet the faces behind the brand:

Susannah, Founder & Creative Director
Wendy, Financial Controller & Data Lead
Kate, Senior Marketing Manager
Tash, Senior Product Developer
Lexi, Marketing Assistant
Alex, Retail Project Coordinator
Angelica, Customer Service & Operations Manager
Nahren, Macarthur Square Store Manager

 

Susannah, Founder & Creative Director

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

Without women, we wouldn't have a business, a brand, or that buzz in the office every lunch time. With a business dominated by women, IWD is a time to stop and recognise the talent we have at Billini across every department and a time to remind all the passionate women in our team that they are our backbone to the brand’s success. One of our core values is progression, and today we celebrate this as we encourage all the women in our business to continue to grow and achieve their goals, however grand they may be.

 

HOW HAVE YOU CRACKED THE CODE TO SUCCEED AS A WOMAN IN BUSINESS, FROM THE INITIAL STAGES OF STARTING THE BUSINESS TO TODAY?

As a young university student working in fashion retail, and passionate about following and interpreting the latest runway trends (on a shoe-string budget), I quickly recognised a gap in the market for fashion forward footwear at an affordable price point, one I was determined to fill. I set out to build a global brand that not only offered fashion and accessibility to consumers but also one that brings meaning and purpose to women by helping them feel amazing and the best versions of themselves.

I quickly set about educating myself in footwear design, supply, and business in general, and at the same time completed a double degree at university, however I wouldn’t say this shaped my career as a businesswoman. It laid the foundations for running a business, but the practical side is another world in itself, which takes years of experience to master, and I am still learning every single day. Running a business has a lot to do with mindset, and most certainly involves an element of risk taking, however my biggest strength would be the determination and passion I have for creating a brand with purpose!

Aiming high, forward planning and working closely with a talented and passionate team is also a key formula around success today!

 

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM?

I have faced many challenges and learnt many lessons over the years, however what’s important is ensuring you learn and grow from them. My biggest challenge was to learn all there was to know about footwear from initially having next to no experience, which involved securing the right partners and offshore suppliers, as well as frequent overseas trips at such a young age to manage the design and quality processes that are vital to the success of any brand.

Whilst the business was very young and reliant on me, I had my first son which was a huge challenge. I will never paint a pretty picture about how hard I found this period in my life as I was unable to switch off, go on maternity leave or handover to someone else. I had no choice but to juggle being a new mum and the demands of a fast-growing business, both challenging and full-time jobs! With the support of my amazing family, a strict routine for my son, and some reluctant delegating, I ultimately found the balance between being a business woman and a loving and supportive mother to three incredible children.

 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE CONSIDERING STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS?

I am a big believer that if you have enough passion and determination to succeed, you can do anything you put your mind to, so I would encourage other women to launch their own business, however this needs thorough research, planning, strategising and ultimately hard work!

 

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR WORK-LIFE AS A FULL-TIME BUSINESS FOUNDER & MOTHER OF 3?

Balancing being a mother of three and a fast paced, growing business is a daily challenge. Yes, I manage (sometimes barely) by being super organised, planning out my days and weeks in advance, as well as utilising my amazing support network, including my mother who pretty much dedicates every spare minute she has to our family. I am forever using calendars, reminders, charts, task management tools, routines, and everything else in between to keep running this tight ship! Ultimately, my children come first no matter what, even though I set very high expectations of myself and the guilt is real, I try not to be too hard on myself.

 

OVER THE PAST 14 YEARS OF BILLINI, CAN YOU SHARE A SUCCESS YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF?

The opening of our own retail boutiques is one of my proudest successes. Brand awareness was strengthened almost instantly with exposure across key Australian shopping destinations including our first flagship store in Sydney’s CBD, soon followed by Melbourne Central and Pacific Fair in Queensland. We now have 25 retail sites across Australia and growing, with international expansion not off the cards!


Susannah,
Founder & Creative Director

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

Without women, we wouldn't have a business, a brand, or that buzz in the office every lunch time. With a business dominated by women, IWD is a time to stop and recognise the talent we have at Billini across every department and a time to remind all the passionate women in our team that they are our backbone to the brand’s success. One of our core values is progression, and today we celebrate this as we encourage all the women in our business to continue to grow and achieve their goals, however grand they may be.

 

HOW HAVE YOU CRACKED THE CODE TO SUCCEED AS A WOMAN IN BUSINESS, FROM THE INITIAL STAGES OF STARTING THE BUSINESS TO TODAY?

As a young university student working in fashion retail, and passionate about following and interpreting the latest runway trends (on a shoe-string budget), I quickly recognised a gap in the market for fashion forward footwear at an affordable price point, one I was determined to fill. I set out to build a global brand that not only offered fashion and accessibility to consumers but also one that brings meaning and purpose to women by helping them feel amazing and the best versions of themselves.

I quickly set about educating myself in footwear design, supply, and business in general, and at the same time completed a double degree at university, however I wouldn’t say this shaped my career as a businesswoman. It laid the foundations for running a business, but the practical side is another world in itself, which takes years of experience to master, and I am still learning every single day. Running a business has a lot to do with mindset, and most certainly involves an element of risk taking, however my biggest strength would be the determination and passion I have for creating a brand with purpose!

Aiming high, forward planning and working closely with a talented and passionate team is also a key formula around success today!

 

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME THEM?

I have faced many challenges and learnt many lessons over the years, however what’s important is ensuring you learn and grow from them. My biggest challenge was to learn all there was to know about footwear from initially having next to no experience, which involved securing the right partners and offshore suppliers, as well as frequent overseas trips at such a young age to manage the design and quality processes that are vital to the success of any brand.

Whilst the business was very young and reliant on me, I had my first son which was a huge challenge. I will never paint a pretty picture about how hard I found this period in my life as I was unable to switch off, go on maternity leave or handover to someone else. I had no choice but to juggle being a new mum and the demands of a fast-growing business, both challenging and full-time jobs! With the support of my amazing family, a strict routine for my son, and some reluctant delegating, I ultimately found the balance between being a business woman and a loving and supportive mother to three incredible children.

 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE CONSIDERING STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS?

I am a big believer that if you have enough passion and determination to succeed, you can do anything you put your mind to, so I would encourage other women to launch their own business, however this needs thorough research, planning, strategising and ultimately hard work!

 

HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR WORK-LIFE AS A FULL-TIME BUSINESS FOUNDER & MOTHER OF 3?

Balancing being a mother of three and a fast paced, growing business is a daily challenge. Yes, I manage (sometimes barely) by being super organised, planning out my days and weeks in advance, as well as utilising my amazing support network, including my mother who pretty much dedicates every spare minute she has to our family. I am forever using calendars, reminders, charts, task management tools, routines, and everything else in between to keep running this tight ship! Ultimately, my children come first no matter what, even though I set very high expectations of myself and the guilt is real, I try not to be too hard on myself.

 

OVER THE PAST 14 YEARS OF BILLINI, CAN YOU SHARE A SUCCESS YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF?

The opening of our own retail boutiques is one of my proudest successes. Brand awareness was strengthened almost instantly with exposure across key Australian shopping destinations including our first flagship store in Sydney’s CBD, soon followed by Melbourne Central and Pacific Fair in Queensland. We now have 25 retail sites across Australia and growing, with international expansion not off the cards!

 

Wendy, Financial Controller & Data Lead

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

It reminds me to reflect on my success and achievements. Many women working in male-dominated fields experience imposter syndrome, which reflects the world we grew up in. However, the world has shifted on many fronts, and I'm confident that younger female generations will be more accepting of their achievements and success.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

My career spans over 30 years, and the last 5 years have been focused on consolidating my experience to mentor young finance professionals and to guide business to use data for informed decision-making. Billini has been the perfect company to enable this.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

Raising awareness of unconscious biases is crucial for promoting equity. Paying attention to how we react to different people or situations and questioning whether our reactions are fair is the first step to weeding out bias.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

Indirectly, Michelle Simmons, Professor of Quantum Physics at UNSW and 2018 Australian of the year, believes in empowering girls at a young age to do whatever it is they want to do. If it involves maths or science, developing a culture where girls can see themselves achieving a STEM related career is crucial.

 

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING WOMEN IN THE DATA AND TECHNOLOGY SPACE TODAY?

One challenge is the prevalence of bias in the data used to train AI models, which risks automating inequity. Another challenge is creating opportunities for women to utilise their diverse skill sets to solve this problem.

 

HOW CAN WE ENCOURAGE MORE GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN TO PURSUE CAREERS IN TECHNOLOGY AND STEM FIELDS?

Providing equal opportunities and resources for girls and young women to pursue STEM careers is crucial for removing gender bias and creating an environment where they can flourish.


Wendy,
Financial Controller & Data Lead

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

It reminds me to reflect on my success and achievements. Many women working in male-dominated fields experience imposter syndrome, which reflects the world we grew up in. However, the world has shifted on many fronts, and I'm confident that younger female generations will be more accepting of their achievements and success.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

My career spans over 30 years, and the last 5 years have been focused on consolidating my experience to mentor young finance professionals and to guide business to use data for informed decision-making. Billini has been the perfect company to enable this.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

Raising awareness of unconscious biases is crucial for promoting equity. Paying attention to how we react to different people or situations and questioning whether our reactions are fair is the first step to weeding out bias.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

Indirectly, Michelle Simmons, Professor of Quantum Physics at UNSW and 2018 Australian of the year, believes in empowering girls at a young age to do whatever it is they want to do. If it involves maths or science, developing a culture where girls can see themselves achieving a STEM related career is crucial.

 

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING WOMEN IN THE DATA AND TECHNOLOGY SPACE TODAY?

One challenge is the prevalence of bias in the data used to train AI models, which risks automating inequity. Another challenge is creating opportunities for women to utilise their diverse skill sets to solve this problem.

 

HOW CAN WE ENCOURAGE MORE GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN TO PURSUE CAREERS IN TECHNOLOGY AND STEM FIELDS?

Providing equal opportunities and resources for girls and young women to pursue STEM careers is crucial for removing gender bias and creating an environment where they can flourish.

"Raising awareness OF UNCONSCIOUS
BIASES IS CRUCIAL FOR promoting equity "



"Raising awareness OF UNCONSCIOUS BIASES IS

CRUCIAL FOR promoting equity "

WENDY

Kate, Senior Marketing Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

Although IWD is a wonderful celebration of how far womankind has come, our achievements, and the history of the cause, it also serves as a reminder that there is still progress to be made. We need to continue championing and empowering women every single day to tackle gender inequality & continue to make the world a better place for women of all kind.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Working closely with our founder & creative director, Susannah since starting at Billini 6 years ago, I have always been championed by her for my talents, skills, and achievements (often before I could even do so myself!). She has been a huge motivator and supporter of my journey so far and a great role model on never say no!

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My mum is truly the epitome of a kind and selfless human being. She always treats others with empathy, understanding, and is such a caring person. As I grow older, I realise how lucky I was to have a role model who was so hardworking, who never put herself first and was so passionate about what was important to her, regardless of what anyone thought.

 

AS A LEADER AT BILLINI, HOW HAVE YOU BALANCED YOUR ROLE AS A MUM WITH YOUR CAREER, AND WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE MOST EFFECTIVE?

As a new mother returning to the workforce and still trying to find the balance, I have quickly realised you can never be everything, to everyone, all at once – something will always have to give! I try to ensure when I am at work – I am focused on my team and task at hand, and when I am with my son and family – I am focused on him.

 

HOW DO YOU HOPE TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER THE NEXT GENERATION OF MOTHERS IN THE WORKFORCE, AND WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO THEM?

I hope I can inspire and empower the next generation of mothers in the workforce by simply being authentic in representing the challenges of juggling a busy toddler with a career, and that showing up for both everyday is an amazing accomplishment - no matter how chaotic it might feel!

I also hope to inspire women to tune out their inner critic and grant themselves some grace while they navigate their journey of balancing their career, children, partner, family and friends & most importantly, their own wellbeing.

WENDY

 

 


Kate,
Senior Marketing Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

Although IWD is a wonderful celebration of how far womankind has come, our achievements, and the history of the cause, it also serves as a reminder that there is still progress to be made. We need to continue championing and empowering women every single day to tackle gender inequality & continue to make the world a better place for women of all kind.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Working closely with our founder & creative director, Susannah since starting at Billini 6 years ago, I have always been championed by her for my talents, skills, and achievements (often before I could even do so myself!). She has been a huge motivator and supporter of my journey so far and a great role model on never say no!

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My mum is truly the epitome of a kind and selfless human being. She always treats others with empathy, understanding, and is such a caring person. As I grow older, I realise how lucky I was to have a role model who was so hardworking, who never put herself first and was so passionate about what was important to her, regardless of what anyone thought.

 

AS A LEADER AT BILLINI, HOW HAVE YOU BALANCED YOUR ROLE AS A MUM WITH YOUR CAREER, AND WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE MOST EFFECTIVE?

As a new mother returning to the workforce and still trying to find the balance, I have quickly realised you can never be everything, to everyone, all at once – something will always have to give! I try to ensure when I am at work – I am focused on my team and task at hand, and when I am with my son and family – I am focused on him.

 

HOW DO YOU HOPE TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER THE NEXT GENERATION OF MOTHERS IN THE WORKFORCE, AND WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO THEM?

I hope I can inspire and empower the next generation of mothers in the workforce by simply being authentic in representing the challenges of juggling a busy toddler with a career, and that showing up for both everyday is an amazing accomplishment - no matter how chaotic it might feel!

I also hope to inspire women to tune out their inner critic and grant themselves some grace while they navigate their journey of balancing their career, children, partner, family and friends & most importantly, their own wellbeing.

 

Tash, Senior Product Developer

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD means recognising and celebrating women all around the globe. It is listening to our history, seeing how far we have come as a group and seeing all the amazing potential for our future. It’s understanding the hardships, both of individuals and as a collective, creating a strong voice and coming together as a community.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

I am lucky enough to work in a female dominated industry and have been surrounded by strong and inspiring women my whole career. Not only are the companies I have worked for, Billini included, been female founded and led; but they have been forces within the industry itself. Billini supports, celebrates, nurtures and encourages all of its female and non-female staff members, creating an environment of growing openness and advancement. Working closely with Suz, the Founder and Creative Director, over the last few years has truly been an inspiration – I have seen an amazing woman cultivate a strong brand with kindness, grace and tenacity, and have been so lucky to learn from her side. This support has allowed me to cultivate a career I feel proud of, cement my confidence in my abilities and understand the value of hard work. More than this, the representation of women all around me truly is an inspiration – being surrounded by creative and hard-working women strengthens the sense of community, common goals, and the sense that we’re all in it together.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

Representation is key to women’s empowerment. It is so important to see women in top positions – founders, CEO’s, heads of departments. Beyond this, it is important to see representation of minorities within women. Being an Aussie born Indian, it wasn’t often I saw women of cultural minorities in positions of power. The older I’ve grown the more I have seen women of colour breaking through and being represented, not only in my industry, but in many facets of life – business owners, voices within the media, women in entertainment, politics and so much more. This is for both women in advanced careers, and the trailblazers of the next gen. We have had an Aussie born South Asian girl Ayesha Madon in the lead role for Heartbreak High, one of the most recent culturally significant shows of Aussie TV. She has spoken about her experience growing up and never being seen amongst peers as aspirational due to the lack of representation in this space for all of society to see and understand; a feeling that would not be uncommon to many WOC, myself included. We also have Penny Wong as our Minister for Foreign Affairs, a coveted position now held by a woman of colour. I cannot impress the significance this has on a young woman of these cultural minorities; seeing someone who is so like you making a difference is one of the biggest drivers of empowerment.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

Like many lucky young women, both my mum and my sister are the biggest inspiration. My mum has always been the kindest, strongest, most caring and gracious person I know. Pushing out against familial norms and always supporting my sister and I to do absolutely anything we wanted in our lives, no matter the industry or where in the world it would take us. I have seen the sacrifices she has made over the years to give us our opportunities, and am forever grateful. My sister also, I have seen her successful in her career and create one of the most gorgeous families I know, with so much love and care, which always inspires and pushes me to be my best self and give it my all. IWD is not just about the women who currently have a voice, but also the unsung heroes that make us feel loved, supported and strong.


Tash,
Senior Product Developer

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD means recognising and celebrating women all around the globe. It is listening to our history, seeing how far we have come as a group and seeing all the amazing potential for our future. It’s understanding the hardships, both of individuals and as a collective, creating a strong voice and coming together as a community.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

I am lucky enough to work in a female dominated industry and have been surrounded by strong and inspiring women my whole career. Not only are the companies I have worked for, Billini included, been female founded and led; but they have been forces within the industry itself. Billini supports, celebrates, nurtures and encourages all of its female and non-female staff members, creating an environment of growing openness and advancement. Working closely with Suz, the Founder and Creative Director, over the last few years has truly been an inspiration – I have seen an amazing woman cultivate a strong brand with kindness, grace and tenacity, and have been so lucky to learn from her side. This support has allowed me to cultivate a career I feel proud of, cement my confidence in my abilities and understand the value of hard work. More than this, the representation of women all around me truly is an inspiration – being surrounded by creative and hard-working women strengthens the sense of community, common goals, and the sense that we’re all in it together.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

Representation is key to women’s empowerment. It is so important to see women in top positions – founders, CEO’s, heads of departments. Beyond this, it is important to see representation of minorities within women. Being an Aussie born Indian, it wasn’t often I saw women of cultural minorities in positions of power. The older I’ve grown the more I have seen women of colour breaking through and being represented, not only in my industry, but in many facets of life – business owners, voices within the media, women in entertainment, politics and so much more. This is for both women in advanced careers, and the trailblazers of the next gen. We have had an Aussie born South Asian girl Ayesha Madon in the lead role for Heartbreak High, one of the most recent culturally significant shows of Aussie TV. She has spoken about her experience growing up and never being seen amongst peers as aspirational due to the lack of representation in this space for all of society to see and understand; a feeling that would not be uncommon to many WOC, myself included. We also have Penny Wong as our Minister for Foreign Affairs, a coveted position now held by a woman of colour. I cannot impress the significance this has on a young woman of these cultural minorities; seeing someone who is so like you making a difference is one of the biggest drivers of empowerment.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

Like many lucky young women, both my mum and my sister are the biggest inspiration. My mum has always been the kindest, strongest, most caring and gracious person I know. Pushing out against familial norms and always supporting my sister and I to do absolutely anything we wanted in our lives, no matter the industry or where in the world it would take us. I have seen the sacrifices she has made over the years to give us our opportunities, and am forever grateful. My sister also, I have seen her successful in her career and create one of the most gorgeous families I know, with so much love and care, which always inspires and pushes me to be my best self and give it my all. IWD is not just about the women who currently have a voice, but also the unsung heroes that make us feel loved, supported and strong.

"Without women, we wouldn't have a BUSINESS,
a BRAND, or that BUZZ in the office every lunch time"



"Without women, we wouldn't
have a BUSINESS, a BRAND,
or that BUZZ in the office
every lunch time"

SUSANNAH

SUSANNAH

 

 

Lexi, Marketing Assistant

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD is a day dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. It is a day to recognise how far women have come and a day to educate and drive further change. It is also a day for women to bind together and celebrate and inspire success both from a personal and collective point of view.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Billini has enabled a path for me to transition from the shop floor to the office. I have had an amazing team of majority women to shadow and learn from. They all may not know it, but they have been incredible leaders and role models and I am so grateful to have learnt both personal and professional skills from each and every one of these women.

Billini has guided me to realise the potential I have and enabled me to develop my skills across multiple areas of Marketing and Creative. I cannot believe how much I have learnt and how far I have come working within the Billini team and it would not have been possible without the woman supporting woman culture.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

I believe there is still a long way to go when it comes to gender equality, and it starts with education and recognition both in schools and workplaces. I think it is important for men to also be a driver of change and support women. I believe a complete understanding of what it means to be female and the historical and current hardships they face can promote change in many areas, including flexibility in the workforce, gender inequality barriers and violence against women.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My number one inspiration will always be my mum. I watched her battle cancer with so much strength, throughout her struggle she continued to stay beyond positive and support the women enduring the battle alongside her. She of course constructed my initial perception of what it means to be a woman. Her kindness and positivity were my first lesson in inner beauty and strength, and I knew I wanted to replicate these traits.

If I’m honest I am blessed with so many inspiring women in my life. I am so grateful to work amongst a majority female led team. The ladies I am surrounded by on a day to day basis are all superhumans and I hope they know how much I look up to them.

 

Lexi,
Marketing Assistant

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD is a day dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. It is a day to recognise how far women have come and a day to educate and drive further change. It is also a day for women to bind together and celebrate and inspire success both from a personal and collective point of view.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Billini has enabled a path for me to transition from the shop floor to the office. I have had an amazing team of majority women to shadow and learn from. They all may not know it, but they have been incredible leaders and role models and I am so grateful to have learnt both personal and professional skills from each and every one of these women.

Billini has guided me to realise the potential I have and enabled me to develop my skills across multiple areas of Marketing and Creative. I cannot believe how much I have learnt and how far I have come working within the Billini team and it would not have been possible without the woman supporting woman culture.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

I believe there is still a long way to go when it comes to gender equality, and it starts with education and recognition both in schools and workplaces. I think it is important for men to also be a driver of change and support women. I believe a complete understanding of what it means to be female and the historical and current hardships they face can promote change in many areas, including flexibility in the workforce, gender inequality barriers and violence against women.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My number one inspiration will always be my mum. I watched her battle cancer with so much strength, throughout her struggle she continued to stay beyond positive and support the women enduring the battle alongside her. She of course constructed my initial perception of what it means to be a woman. Her kindness and positivity were my first lesson in inner beauty and strength, and I knew I wanted to replicate these traits.

If I’m honest I am blessed with so many inspiring women in my life. I am so grateful to work amongst a majority female led team. The ladies I am surrounded by on a day to day basis are all superhumans and I hope they know how much I look up to them.

 

Alex, Retail Project Coordinator

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD is an opportunity to empower and celebrate the women in our lives, to honour the contributions of women to society, and to advocate for greater gender equality. It is also a day to highlight the ongoing struggles for gender injustice, including issues like violence against women, unequal pay, and limited access to education.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Billini has supported my career development by providing and supporting equal opportunities in my role. I’ve been elevated and backed by the business managing projects that are in a predominantly male space, eliminating gender-based discrimination. The constant support and mentorship I’ve received from our directors has encouraged my advancement in my career giving me the training, development, and opportunities to succeed.

Billini recognises the value that women bring to the retail industry and actively works towards providing me with an environment where I feel supported and encouraged as a woman in developing my career.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

One change that will have a positive impact on women's empowerment would be to prioritise and invest in quality education for girls and women worldwide. Education is one of the most important tools for empowering women. Providing access to education helps women gain crucial knowledge, skills, and confidence that can improve their lives and increase their opportunities. By empowering women through education, we can create a more equal and just world.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

I’m constantly being inspired by the various women who surround me every day. Notably my mum, both my grandmothers, sister, and Susannah. Each of these women constantly show me consistent drive and empower me to be the best possible version of myself. I’m lucky to have both my mum and Suz to show me that it is possible to do it all, working hard and raising a family breaking down stereotypes.

 

Alex,

Retail Project Coordinator

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD is an opportunity to empower and celebrate the women in our lives, to honour the contributions of women to society, and to advocate for greater gender equality. It is also a day to highlight the ongoing struggles for gender injustice, including issues like violence against women, unequal pay, and limited access to education.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Billini has supported my career development by providing and supporting equal opportunities in my role. I’ve been elevated and backed by the business managing projects that are in a predominantly male space, eliminating gender-based discrimination. The constant support and mentorship I’ve received from our directors has encouraged my advancement in my career giving me the training, development, and opportunities to succeed.

Billini recognises the value that women bring to the retail industry and actively works towards providing me with an environment where I feel supported and encouraged as a woman in developing my career.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

One change that will have a positive impact on women's empowerment would be to prioritise and invest in quality education for girls and women worldwide. Education is one of the most important tools for empowering women. Providing access to education helps women gain crucial knowledge, skills, and confidence that can improve their lives and increase their opportunities. By empowering women through education, we can create a more equal and just world.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

I’m constantly being inspired by the various women who surround me every day. Notably my mum, both my grandmothers, sister, and Susannah. Each of these women constantly show me consistent drive and empower me to be the best possible version of myself. I’m lucky to have both my mum and Suz to show me that it is possible to do it all, working hard and raising a family breaking down stereotypes.

 

Angelica, Customer Service & Operations Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

To me, IWD means a day of celebrating women's empowerment and the progress that has been made. It’s about appreciating the amazing women who have and who continue to break down barriers and change the world we live in for the better. It’s about recognising and being thankful for the fact that now as a woman, I can get an equal education to a man, I can work in an industry / field that I may not have been able to previously, I can dress the way I want to dress, I can express my own thoughts and ideas and most importantly I have access to information and freedom to make my own decisions.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

My time at Billini has definitely been a journey, an amazing, crazy, exciting, challenging and sometimes stressful journey, but it has especially been one of huge growth for me personally and professionally. I came to Billini with a degree in a field I wasn’t sure if I enjoyed or wanted to work in and have been given opportunities to continue to grow, learn and really work on myself and figure out exactly what I wanted to do in my career. I am finally in a place where I love what I do, I feel challenged every day and I get to problem solve every day. I’ve been able to grow with the business, which I am so grateful for, but this didn’t come without a lot of hard work and A LOT of perseverance. One of the biggest highlights working for Billini is that I get to work alongside so many like minded women and as a manager I get to help other women grow and develop in their own careers.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

I think one change that would have a positive impact on women’s empowerment is how we are treated, raised and educated as children depending on our gender. As women we are raised to believe that to be feminine we need to be gentle, empathetic, kind, nurturing etc. but we can actually be assertive, strong, determined, confident and smart. These aren’t masculine traits anymore, these are the traits of an empowered woman who knows who she is & what she wants from her life.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

As cliché as it might sound, my mum. My mum has been a partner and owner in a business pretty much my whole life (all other partners before her and during her time have been male). She has been an incredible role model showing that you can both work and be a mum and she’s definitely made me strive and want to continue to push myself and grow in my career. I remember as a child thinking how different my life was to all my friends as I had a working mum and most of my friends had stay at home mums, but this is something I am so grateful for now, as I understand and see all the sacrifices she made and she’s really set an amazing example for both my sister & myself


Angelica,
Customer Service & Operations Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

To me, IWD means a day of celebrating women's empowerment and the progress that has been made. It’s about appreciating the amazing women who have and who continue to break down barriers and change the world we live in for the better. It’s about recognising and being thankful for the fact that now as a woman, I can get an equal education to a man, I can work in an industry / field that I may not have been able to previously, I can dress the way I want to dress, I can express my own thoughts and ideas and most importantly I have access to information and freedom to make my own decisions.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

My time at Billini has definitely been a journey, an amazing, crazy, exciting, challenging and sometimes stressful journey, but it has especially been one of huge growth for me personally and professionally. I came to Billini with a degree in a field I wasn’t sure if I enjoyed or wanted to work in and have been given opportunities to continue to grow, learn and really work on myself and figure out exactly what I wanted to do in my career. I am finally in a place where I love what I do, I feel challenged every day and I get to problem solve every day. I’ve been able to grow with the business, which I am so grateful for, but this didn’t come without a lot of hard work and A LOT of perseverance. One of the biggest highlights working for Billini is that I get to work alongside so many like minded women and as a manager I get to help other women grow and develop in their own careers.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

I think one change that would have a positive impact on women’s empowerment is how we are treated, raised and educated as children depending on our gender. As women we are raised to believe that to be feminine we need to be gentle, empathetic, kind, nurturing etc. but we can actually be assertive, strong, determined, confident and smart. These aren’t masculine traits anymore, these are the traits of an empowered woman who knows who she is & what she wants from her life.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

As cliché as it might sound, my mum. My mum has been a partner and owner in a business pretty much my whole life (all other partners before her and during her time have been male). She has been an incredible role model showing that you can both work and be a mum and she’s definitely made me strive and want to continue to push myself and grow in my career. I remember as a child thinking how different my life was to all my friends as I had a working mum and most of my friends had stay at home mums, but this is something I am so grateful for now, as I understand and see all the sacrifices she made and she’s really set an amazing example for both my sister & myself.

"We need to continue CHAMPIONING AND
EMPOWERING women every single day to
TACKLE GENDER INEQUALITY & continue
to make the world a better place FOR WOMEN
OF ALL KIND"



"We need to continue CHAMPIONING

ANDEMPOWERING women every single day to TACKLE GENDER INEQUALITY & continue
to make the world a better place
FOR WOMEN OF ALL KIND"

KATE

Nahren, Macarthur Square Store Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD gives me and many other women the opportunity to be proud of everything we have achieved and continue to achieve. I honour all those women at the forefront of the fight against gender discrimination and equalities. It is also a time to reflect on the progress made and the acts of courage by women who have played an extraordinary role to help women today be successful.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Working so closely and being a part of a strong team with so many talented and empowering women in Billini has been the greatest time in a retail career. Being in retail for 11 years, Billini was the first company which supported me in career development and advancement. I started off as an assistant store manager and after being there for just over a year I was promoted to store manager. Many times in my career I had been pushed down and told I was not “fit for the role” but Billini noticed my potential and believed in me. I am now in a role that I love and surrounded by brilliant and influential women starting all the way from the top of our leadership team.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

We are fortunate to be in a country where we have been provided with an education, because knowledge and understanding is one of the most important means of empowering women with comprehension, skills and self-confidence. Countries around the world should act to empower more women and should take steps to eliminate inequalities through greater means of education during early childhood, school and even in the workplace. This gives women their right to have access to opportunities and resources.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My twin sister and mother are the two most inspiring women in my life. I have chosen my twin sister because she has not only always been there by my side, but she has also always supported me to go after what I want no matter what obstacles come my way. She has taught me to be the best version of myself and just watching her grow and excel makes me want to achieve great things. My mum is the most inspiring woman I know because she is someone who first-hand showed me courage, bravery and how to love. My mother packed up her life and moved to the other side of the world from Iraq to provide me and my siblings a future and the best life she could give us. Regardless of the barriers she faced for many years she would always put others before her and ensure that me and my family were provided with the greatest opportunity to follow our dreams. She continued to make so many sacrifices so I would fulfil a life full of happiness, joy and purpose.

KATE



 


Nahren,
Macarthur Square Store Manager

WHAT DOES IWD MEAN TO YOU?

IWD gives me and many other women the opportunity to be proud of everything we have achieved and continue to achieve. I honour all those women at the forefront of the fight against gender discrimination and equalities. It is also a time to reflect on the progress made and the acts of courage by women who have played an extraordinary role to help women today be successful.

 

HOW HAS BILLINI SUPPORTED YOU IN YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT AS A WOMAN?

Working so closely and being a part of a strong team with so many talented and empowering women in Billini has been the greatest time in a retail career. Being in retail for 11 years, Billini was the first company which supported me in career development and advancement. I started off as an assistant store manager and after being there for just over a year I was promoted to store manager. Many times in my career I had been pushed down and told I was not “fit for the role” but Billini noticed my potential and believed in me. I am now in a role that I love and surrounded by brilliant and influential women starting all the way from the top of our leadership team.

 

WHAT IS ONE CHANGE THAT WOULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?

We are fortunate to be in a country where we have been provided with an education, because knowledge and understanding is one of the most important means of empowering women with comprehension, skills and self-confidence. Countries around the world should act to empower more women and should take steps to eliminate inequalities through greater means of education during early childhood, school and even in the workplace. This gives women their right to have access to opportunities and resources.

 

WHAT WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE INSPIRE YOU?

My twin sister and mother are the two most inspiring women in my life. I have chosen my twin sister because she has not only always been there by my side, but she has also always supported me to go after what I want no matter what obstacles come my way. She has taught me to be the best version of myself and just watching her grow and excel makes me want to achieve great things. My mum is the most inspiring woman I know because she is someone who first-hand showed me courage, bravery and how to love. My mother packed up her life and moved to the other side of the world from Iraq to provide me and my siblings a future and the best life she could give us. Regardless of the barriers she faced for many years she would always put others before her and ensure that me and my family were provided with the greatest opportunity to follow our dreams. She continued to make so many sacrifices so I would fulfil a life full of happiness, joy and purpose.