Celebrating BSL's innovative women

Published
7 March 2023

While this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD - 8 March) theme focuses on technology, it also highlights the importance of innovation and change for the empowerment of women and girls – something the Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) is very familiar with.

The 2023 IWD theme is, “ DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality ” which recognises and celebrates the women and girls who are championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education.

Since BSL was established in 1930 by Father Gerard Tucker, the impact of progressive and innovative women has been immense. Successive women have both contributed to the evolution of our organisation and helped deliver programs for women and girls facing poverty and disadvantage.

In reflection of this, we’ve compiled some of the stories of the impressive women who have been sources of innovation and dedication throughout BSL’s long history.

Discover these stories below, and if there’s anyone we missed, tell us the story of someone you wish to celebrate at InternalComms@bsl.org.au

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Connie benn 1

Learn more about Connie's amazing legacy, including academic and professional achievements.

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Jess millot archive

Jess Millot is pictured here in the Coolibah Club, which she managed for 23 years from 1962. She was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 1980 New Year Honours list, and Millot House is named in her honour.

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Fiona smith 1985 archive

Fiona Smith (left) with Kim Williams and M. Hall, circa 1985. Fiona was employed in 1985 to work in the newly founded Affirmative Employment Unit.

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Bsl volunteer awards finalists fn

Our WESSI, Digital Literacy program was selected as a Finalist for the COVID-19 Innovation Award, in the 2021 Volunteering

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