Each year International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8th and it's become a day when women around the globe are recognised for their achievements.

Since IWD launched in 1911 on March 19, moving to March 8 in 1913, support has continued to build for women’s rights and their full participation in the economy, politics, community and in everyday life. 

In 2023, the UN Women’s theme for IWD is: DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality. While the UN Women’s Australia organisation expresses it slightly differently (Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future) the intent of the theme remains the same, that being the need for inclusive and transformative technology and digital education for women around the globe.

On a local level, we’re celebrating IWD by sharing the stories of women who are leading the way in hospitality.

Since launching HUNTERhunter in 2013 we've championed women in business, and this year we've taken an extra step, interviewing eight women who have changed the game in their chosen industries.

From farmers to distillers, coffee roasters, restaurateurs, and brewers, the diverse group have a common thread, that being their connection to, and passion for, the hospitality industry. Let us introduce you to the group. 

Becci Fowler

Founder of The Tea Collective, Becci Fowler recounts the wins and not always smooth sailing business moments, as well as sharing with us her fascinating life story.

Kristy (Kmac) Mujana

It's all about the small talk with Kmac, Co-Founder of Floozy Coffee Roasters, and on bringing the joy into speciality coffee.

Elle Brown

Co-founder of Newcastle Greens, Elle is a leader in the microgreens and horticulture and spoke to us about the growth of the business, and her new future with Bank of Seeds.

Jaz Wearin

From the NSW country town of Rankin Springs to the fast-paced world of craft beer, Jaz shares with us the phenomenal Modus journey.

Kim Starkey 

A legend in the hotel world, Kim has been and continues to be the energy behind some of Newcastle's and the Hunter most iconic hotels and restaurants. 

Kylie Sepos

The award-winning Farmer's Wife Distillery founder Kylie, takes us on her incredible business journey, the rise of her hand crafted boutique gin, and what's to come.  

Lauren Henry

Sharing the beautiful Common Circus space for our group photo, Lauren chats through life in design and interiors, and how it has kept her mental health on track.

Sadaf Tootoonchi Moghaddam

Immigrating from Iran in 2021, Sadaf recalls the early days of working in Limoo, the risk she and husband Shervin took and how opening Limoo also built a much-loved community.

International Women's Day 2023

In 2023 UN Women Australia will be hosting IWD fundraising events across Australia. On Friday 3 March live events will be hosted in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, with the content from all five events available via the live stream virtual hub.

Each of the events will bring together leaders and change-makers who are redefining innovation – hear from incredible women technologists, innovators, entrepreneurs, and gender equality activists who are inspired to make a difference every day.

Whether you’re an individual, an organisation, in the office, or at school – there are many ways you can get involved and show your support for women and girls around the world. Find out more at unwomen.org.au