International Women’s Day 2025
At Gateways, we are proud to be a workplace where women lead with strength, kindness, and empathy. Many amazing women work with us, and they make a big difference every day in the lives of the people we support. On International Women’s Day (IWD), we’re using this opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come and to celebrate the women in our organisation and community.
A time to reflect and celebrate
International Women’s Day is a time to look at how far we’ve come in making sure women are treated equally. It is also a time to think about the work still needed. This year, for #IWD2025, we want to #AccelerateAction for a world where all women have equal chances to succeed.
At Gateways, we support people with disabilities, helping them live their best lives. We are committed to making the world more inclusive and equal—where everyone, no matter their gender or ability, is treated with respect and given the chance to succeed.
Empowering women with disabilities
At Gateways, we make sure women with disabilities are included. We believe women with disabilities should have the same chances as everyone else to live a full and happy life. We work hard to make sure they are supported, have access to resources that benefit them, and are given the respect they deserve.
Gender equality and disability inclusion go hand in hand. We aim to create a world where women with disabilities can make choices, live independently, and be leaders in their communities. At Gateways, we celebrate and support women of all abilities.
Recognising this year’s inspiring IWD nominees
This International Women’s Day, we are proud to celebrate the amazing women of the Gateways team who have shown leadership, commitment, and care. These women have made a big impact, and we are happy to announce the nominees for IWD 2025:
Angie
Support Coordinator
Angie’s warmth and kindness make her a valued team member. Always ready with a smile, she checks in on colleagues, ensuring they feel supported. Her empathy and caring nature create a safe, welcoming space for both staff and clients, making a positive impact on everyone around her.
Anh
Recreation Group Leader
Anh’s dedication, empathy, and teamwork shine through her 15 years at Gateways. A calm leader and carer herself, she ensures client rights and safety while supporting her team. Her ability to manage challenges with care and professionalism makes her a valued and respected team member.
Breeanna
Therapeutic Specialist/Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
Breeanna’s vibrant spirit and kindness make everyone feel included. She brings energy, dedication, and advocacy to her role, creating a positive workplace. Her commitment to social causes and teamwork highlights her passion for making a difference.
Caroline
Inclusion Support Additional Assistant
Caroline creates curiosity, learning, and growth in kindergartens with warmth and respect. She embraces children’s unique perspectives and shares her South African heritage, broadening inclusivity and global thinking.
Carolyn
Lead Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
Carolyn’s compassionate leadership in the Behaviour Support Team ensures clients and families receive inclusive, high-quality support. Her empathy and guidance empower those around her, making a meaningful difference.
Courtney
Support Coordinator
Courtney is a thoughtful, dedicated support coordinator who ensures participants receive person-centered support. Her quiet strength and deep compassion have made a lasting impact, particularly for those with complex needs.
Ebony
Acting Program Manager
Ebony’s leadership creates inclusivity and collaboration. She champions client feedback, revitalising Recreation and Accommodation services. Her dedication to innovation and service excellence ensures lasting positive impacts.
Gretta
Strengthening Parents Coordinator
Gretta’s passion for supporting families shines through in all she does. She leads retreats, facilitates activities, and builds strong school relationships. Her compassion and advocacy make a profound, lasting impact.
Jayne
Early Childhood and Specialist Services Manager
With nearly 30 years at Gateways, Jayne is a leader who creates collaboration and advocacy. Her dedication to disability services and team development has created lasting change, truly embodying the values of inclusion.
Jo
Central Intake Officer
Jo offers unwavering support, mentorship, and advocacy. Her professionalism, warmth, and problem-solving skills ensure staff and clients feel valued. She is a trusted leader who makes a significant impact across Gateways.
Kim
Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
Kim’s dedication to clients shines through her creative, person-centred approach. Her work on a 1:1 work-safe program highlights her commitment to engagement and empowerment. She’s a supportive ally, both professionally and personally.
Kirsty
Program Leader
Kirsty’s energy and creativity make every activity engaging and inclusive. She brings laughter and warmth, ensuring clients feel encouraged to participate and build skills in a fun way. From karaoke nights to DIY crafts, her enthusiasm transforms social and community activities into memorable experiences.
Kristy
Support Coordination Team Leader
Kristy’s leadership creates a supportive environment for both her team and clients. Her person-centred approach and ability to navigate challenges ensure strong morale and meaningful impact within her team.
Kym
Occupational Therapist
Kym’s kindness and compassion left a lasting impact, building confidence and resilience in those she supported. Her ability to create safe, positive spaces for growth is truly commendable.
Leanne
Program Manager
Leanne is a dedicated advocate for person-centred support. Her empathy, problem-solving, and unwavering support empower colleagues and clients, making her a pillar of strength within the organisation.
Mandy
Individual Supports Team Leader
Mandy is a mentor who creates teamwork and professional growth. Her calm, logical approach reassures and empowers her team, ensuring a culture of learning and support.
Mel
CAYS Program Manager
Mel’s dedication to children’s well-being is truly inspiring. Her empathy and storytelling highlight the meaningful impact of her work, creating a nurturing environment where children thrive.
Nicole
Support Worker
Nicole’s adaptability and dedication make her an invaluable team member. Whether in Camps, Individual Support, or Recreation, she builds trust and ensures participants feel safe, respected, and engaged. Her ability to provide high-quality support across different environments sets her apart.
Rachel
Residential Support Worker
Rachel’s warmth and compassion leave a lasting impact. Her caring nature ensures families feel truly seen and supported. With her long-term commitment to Gateways, she provides reassurance and guidance during challenging times. Her kindness and dedication are a source of strength for those she supports.
Sharon
Recreation Group Leader
Sharon is a natural leader who fosters inclusivity and collaboration. She listens, values every voice, and inspires change. Her revitalisation of the “Healthy Connection” program highlights her commitment to service improvement. Her leadership creates a positive impact for both staff and clients.
Tara
Human Resource Services and Systems Manager
Tara’s dedication to improving systems benefits teams across Gateways. From developing the Annual Reviews Process to streamlining operations in Employment Hero, her work enhances efficiency. Though often behind the scenes, her leadership fosters innovation, making a lasting impact on the organisation.
Thah
Support Worker
Thah’s positivity and kindness brighten every space she enters. She lifts spirits, supports colleagues, and spreads joy, making the workplace better for all. Her generosity and willingness to help ensure that everyone she interacts with feels valued and appreciated.
These women have made a real difference at Gateways. They work hard to help people with disabilities and make the world a better place for everyone. We are proud to recognise their hard work and leadership.
Looking to the future
On International Women’s Day, we ask everyone to celebrate the achievements of women, raise awareness about gender equality, and take action to make the world a better place for women everywhere.
We are proud to help people with disabilities live the life they want. We are also proud of the women who work here. They make our community stronger, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.
Happy International Women’s Day 2025! Let’s keep working together to make a world where all women, no matter their abilities, have the opportunity to succeed!
