The magic of women together
Growing, connecting and envisioning the future.
Something magical happens when women come together. I felt it at the Women of Pōneke launch event this week. It was palpable. But, in reality there was no special ingredient. Instead, the magic came from simple things - companionship and connection, music, laughter, friendship, support, curiosity, hope and joy.
It was clear from the over-subscribed ticket sales and long wait list that Wellington women needed this. They needed to feel a sense of connection and belonging. To recognise they’re not alone, but part of a larger tribe. Especially now - at a time when the economy is grim, businesses are tightening their belts, jobs are being lost and the cost of living is sky-high.
“Women hold up half the sky.”
The event was designed in three parts - ‘Me. We. Pōneke’. It intentionally spanned the themes of ourselves, our community and our place. Recognising that while women want to grow as individuals, we also want to be connected to others, and to contribute to the future of our place.
So we tackled the tricks of networking, and how women can approach it with more authenticity and less ‘hustle’. We explored the positive power of connection, and finding your crew. Then, we heard the story of our wonderful Te Papa Chief Executive - Courtney Johnston’s ‘glossy’ career journey - which was much more gritty and less logical than it seemed. And together we envisioned a future for our city that was sustainable, thriving and optimistic.
“Women are the architects of society.”
Magic happened. It appeared in how the women in the room showed up, despite the uncertainty around us. We ‘leaned in’. We connected over shared experiences - yes, including babies and menopause! Some volunteered their support, some offered to connect, others sought to learn. Many invited new friendships and rekindled old ones. And we all committed to growing this community that we started.
The success of any event can best be measured the day after. Ours was inundated with positivity. Requests and offers to get involved. Compliments from our guests and speakers. Photographs capturing energy, joy and wonder (Thank you Mel Parkin). Amongst the organising team there was a collective sense of optimism about the future of this initiative, and reassurance that our vision was just as important for other women as it was for us.
“When women support each other, incredible things happen.”
Perhaps the Women of Pōneke initiative will give Wellington women a new anchor in their lives? Something outside of work and life commitments that offers a chance for growth, a safe place to connect and belong, and the opportunity to unlock a vibrant and thriving future for our city?
We believe so, and we intend to bring that to life.
J. xx
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
PS. The team behind the WoP event is a group of eight women with a shared vision to reconnect the women of Wellington. To bring them opportunities to learn and connect, and to inspire the future of our city. It was such a rewarding experience - each gifted her time, skills, experience and connections. We were so clear, and aligned that the work was done with ease. And it was a valuable reminder that a shared vision and passion is vital, for a team to perform at its best.
Photo credit: Mel Parkin