Today the world celebrates International Women's Day, and St Aloysius College stands at the forefront of championing gender equality. As we mark our second year of co-education after a rich history as an all-girls institution for 135 years, our commitment to fostering a fair and equitable society has never been stronger.

Throughout this week, the College has been abuzz with activities and discussions organised by our dedicated College Prefect Team, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of our International Women's Day celebrations. From an inspiring assembly with guest speaker Eden Foster, to engaging performances and sports events, every initiative has been planned to educate, motivate, and empower our community.

The week kicked off with a whole school assembly featuring a captivating address from Eden Foster MP, former St Aloysius College Psychologist, now Member for Mulgrave in the Victorian Legislative Assembly. Eden's insights into her journey and accomplishments served as a source of inspiration for our students, highlighting the importance of empathy, fairness, and equity in the pursuit of gender equality.

Tuesday witnessed a Lunchtime Music Concert, showcasing the talents of our students as they performed songs by influential female artists, selected by the students. This event not only celebrated women's achievements in the arts but also served as a reminder of the need for inclusivity and representation.

Wednesday and Thursday saw fierce competition on the netball court, with 7-9s and 10-12s women's teams showcasing their skills and sportsmanship. These matches, while thrilling, were not only about winning but also about fostering a sense of camaraderie and empowerment among our female athletes.

As the week draws to a close, today's activities included a sausage sizzle and the sale of cookies, where our community will come together to celebrate the achievements of women and demostrate our continued support for gender equality.

Behind the scenes, the Prefect Team has been instrumental in shaping the week's events, collaborating with other student leaders to create initiatives that promote justice and dignity. From distributing purple pins and ribbons to celebrating women's achievements through music and sport, their dedication and passion have been truly inspiring. The prefect team also compiled a series of short interviews and videos, where we heard from our school community about the powerful, inspiring women we are surrounded by.v

As we reflect on the events of this week, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a lived reality for all. At St Aloysius College, we are proud to lead the charge for a fairer, more equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.