I come from a line of independent and fascinating women. My Greek grandmother was raised in Egypt and attended both the University of Athens and the American University of Cairo. She married a Kiwi soldier and came to NZ by ship with my mum, who was just 2 years old.
She spent 25 years as a much-loved teacher at Diocesan School for Girls here in Auckland, making an impact on people far and wide. She gave French lessons in her home right up to 2 weeks prior to her death at 93.
Another trail blazer in our family was my great-aunt Freda Stark, who used to dance nude, painted in gold paint at the Wintergarden cabaret and nightclub. A key witness in the murder of her friend and lover, Thelma Mareo, she was still able to do the splits at 70!
My mum Diane worked in advertising, PR and communications, co-wrote a book on Freda Stark and like nana, has a lot of friends, many eclectic. She is hugely social, kind, with a quirky sense of humour and a flair for fashion. If she’s not at one of the Remuera/Mt Eden cafes you can find her at Pilates, dance class or playing Mahjong.
Authenticity, love of people and honesty are traits that the women in my family all have in common. I have big boots to fill and strive daily to be a mum my daughter is proud of.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I look back on how far women have come in just three generations. And I look forward to seeing what the next three generations bring for the empowerment of women.