International Women’s Day

Another trip down memory lane today when Mauzee and I went to my old school, Methodist Ladies College for a Panel Discussion and Breakfast for International Women’s Day.  The Panel consisted of an all star line up of incredible women who had all attended MLC.  The focus was on gender equality and womens participation in sport.  All of the panel were amazing.  My image today includes Tian Beckett and her father Steve.  Tian was one of the panelists and had an incredibly inspiring story to tell.  
Tian’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and triumph.  After a challenging childhood as an orphan in China, at the age of 7 she was adopted by Steve and Kim Beckett and given the opportunity to thrive at MLC, excelling in multiple sports while attending the school.  Her achievements in cycling in Australia and on the world stage were outstanding, however what really touched both of us was her incredible courage and resilience against all odds and her ability to thrive and succeed after her start in life in China.  Tian spoke from the heart and I said to her afterwards that she really needed to write a book as it would undoubtedly be an inspiration to many youngsters who perhaps struggle with their own start in life.  Her Dad Steve was delightful and  meeting and chatting with both of them was the highlight of the morning for us.
I had a wonderful time attending MLC and on reflection I realise more and more how my time there in my high school years shaped my attitude to life.  I don’t think there were too many 76 years+  Collegians there today, but who cares, if that was the case, I don’t mind being the “Oldest Old Girl” at the party :)
Here is a link to a summary of the morning and the profiles of the five wonderful women who spoke today.  MLC International Women’s Day