International Women's Day 2026 - Give to Gain
Description
Join us this International Women’s Day as we come together to celebrate connection, generosity and the collective impact of women supporting women. This special event provides an opportunity to pause, reflect and engage in meaningful conversation within our school community and beyond.
Aligned with this year’s theme, Give to Gain, the morning will explore how sharing time, experience and support strengthens individuals and communities alike. We are proud to welcome our keynote speaker, Chiaka Barry MLA, who will speak on "Finding your voice, leadership, courage and changing the story", offering insights that inspire reflection and action.
The keynote address will be followed by a panel discussion with three inspirational Collegian women with questions asked by our Community Captains.
This event is designed to be welcoming, inclusive and inspiring, bringing together students in Years 10 to 12, staff and parents to connect, learn and be inspired. All ticket purchases will be donated to Possible Dreams International, an Australian-based charity partnering with rural and remote communities in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Possible Dreams International works alongside local leaders to support families experiencing extreme poverty through access to education, healthcare, food security and community-led development initiatives that empower women and children to create sustainable futures.
We look forward to welcoming you for a meaningful morning of conversation, connection and celebration as we mark International Women’s Day together.
Ticket price includes breakfast.
Photo captured from 2025 International Women's Day event.
Lineup
Jacinta Maddigan (Class of 2003)
Jacinta is a highly experienced senior social worker and executive leader in the human services sector, with a strong focus on inclusion, trauma-informed practice and community support. She has worked across multiple states and territories, primarily in child protection and disability, and currently leads teams in safeguarding children, reconciliation, business development and family service delivery. Jacinta is also a board member of Possible Dreams International, supporting rural and remote communities in Eswatini through education, healthcare and community-led development. Her work reflects a deep commitment to dignity, equity and improving outcomes for vulnerable children and families.
Ashleigh Foster (Class of 2005)
Ashleigh began her career in the Australian Public Service at 19, progressing through senior executive support and leadership roles across the Attorney-General’s Department, Department of Defence and Joint Logistics Command. She currently serves as Executive Officer for Defence’s Explosive Ordnance Branch, overseeing a workforce of more than 600 personnel and supporting whole-of-Defence governance, safety and reform in complex, high-risk operational environments. Ashleigh brings extensive experience in leadership, strategy and decision-making under pressure.
Kate Lis-Clarke (Class of 2008)
Kate is the Group Data Officer for Corporate Operations at Macquarie Bank, leading data management, privacy, AI governance and information risk functions. With a background in actuarial studies, finance and data consulting, she has worked across diverse industries in Australia and internationally. Kate is a TEDx Brisbane speaker and has supported technology start-ups across Sub-Saharan Africa through the Baobab Network. She is passionate about encouraging confidence, curiosity and lifelong learning in emerging leaders.
Chiaka Barry, MLA
Chiaka emigrated from the UK to Australia in 2008 and has since resided in Canberra. She studied Law at UC. She was a nominee for the "ACT Australian of the Year" in 2021. Since her election in 2024 she was appointed as a shadow minister in the portfolios of community services, women, multicultural affairs, and Indigenous affairs.
Agenda
- 7:00 am - 7:20 am
Networking and Breakfast
- 7:25 am - 7:30 am
Welcome by Mr Christopher Bradbury, Principal
- 7:30 am - 7:40 am
Keynote address by Chiaka Barry, MLA
"Finding your voice, leadership, courage and changing the story"
- 7:40 am - 8:25 am
Collegian Panel and Q&A
- 8:25 am - 8:30 am
Thank you and gifts to panellists
- 8:30 am - 8:35 am
Lucky door prize winners announced
- 8:35 am - 8:35 am
Event concludes
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
