IWD 2025
Every year on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day and take pause to reflect on the
strong force of female leaders who make up over half of our team here at ORTC.
It’s a day to recognise the achievements of women and a global call to action to advance equality and amplify female voices and visibility.
In 2025, the theme is Accelerate Action. At
the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to
data from the World Economic Forum.
To mark IWD 2025 this year, ORTC is shining a light on the inspirational women within our business. Here, we speak to the group about their roles, shine a light on the causes close to their hearts and to share their ambitions for the future female generations.
Stephanie Robertson
What is your role at ORTC?
PR and Partnerships Manager - I look after our valued influencer
relationships, brand partnerships and comms.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you and (OR) what does it mean to be a woman today?
As a mother, businesswoman, daughter, sister, aunty, I honour this day by standing for accelerating action for not only myself but the exceptional woman in my life- the ultimate multitaskers and caregivers. Having two young daughters, my mission is to role model gender parity in our personal and family life at home. I support the need to put a stop to systemic barriers that women face in the workforce, so they can one day enter a workplace with ease of equal opportunities.
Emma Cherry
What is your role at ORTC?
I am the Senior Designer - My role is to forecast upcoming collections, their creative direction and subsequently design, and curate beautiful ranges for our customers.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you and (OR) what does it mean to be a woman today?
As a driven Senior professional in my field, who is also a daughter, sister, and mother—I feel a deep sense of responsibility to pave the way for future generations of women. After becoming a mother and re-entering the
workforce, I experienced firsthand the significant challenges and glaring inequalities that still exist, particularly when it comes to supporting mothers who wish to return to work. These challenges can sometimes make us feel
overlooked, when in reality, we should be uplifted, celebrated, and empowered for our contributions to both our families and society. I want the next generation of women to feel as valued and equal as their male counterparts, and to live in a world where equality is simply the standard.
Lauren Paparella
What is your role at ORTC?
Digital Content Specialist - I create and manage both in-house and external content,
collaborating closely with the paid advertising manager to ensure effective
campaigns.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you and (OR) what does it mean to be a woman today?
Being a woman today means embracing strength in an ever-changing, sometimes daunting society.
While celebrating the diversity of all women, we must recognise that, although we share common experiences, each journey is unique. I’ve learned to stand up for my beliefs and advocate for those whose voices go unheard.
As Eleanor Roosevelt said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." These words remind me to stand tall, stay true, and continue pushing for the change we all deserve.
Jess Lloyd
What is your role at ORTC?
Social Media & Content Coordinator - My role is to manage and create engaging and elevated content to showcase our product and brand across all social media platforms.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you and (OR) what does it mean to be a woman today?
Being a woman today means carrying forward the strength, wisdom, and resilience passed down through generations. Growing up surrounded by two incredible grandmas, a mother who wore countless hats, and a sister
who's a constant source of inspiration, I’ve learned that womanhood is about embracing both power and grace. For over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside amazing women and being uplifted by a circle of beautiful, supportive girlfriends. Together, we redefine what it means to be strong, loving, and unapologetically ourselves. Women today have the incredible ability to be driven and successful, strong and soft, caring and fierce, all while
leading, mentoring, and inspiring those around them.
Georgia Hall
What is your role at ORTC?
I am the Personal Assistant to our Managing Director.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you and (OR) what does it mean to be a woman today?
Having grown up with strong female role models, I’ve always been inspired to set an example for the next generation, just as my mum did for my sister and me. Her incredible work ethic and commitment to standing up for what she believes in has shaped who I am today. I carry those same values with me, always striving to have a voice and stand up for what matters. Being a woman is empowering, and I hope that one day, when I become a mother, I can pass on these values to my daughter and the women in my life- teaching them strength, resilience, and determination.
Holly Gill
What is your role at ORTC?
Customer Experience & Production Coordinator at Custom by ORTC
What does it mean to be a woman today?
Being a woman is complex and often unfair, yet overall - an absolute blessing. Despite it all, our universal experiences unite us in solidarity, encouraging us to find our voice, push the boundaries, and strive to create a safe, equal and accepting world. However, I acknowledge that we would not be in this
position today without the strength and resilience of all the amazing women who came before us. Today, we have the gift of embracing and staying true to who we have always been. Powerful, independent and brave, all while remaining compassionate,
graceful and kind. We celebrate how far we have come, whilst understanding how far we have to go. Above all, I am lucky to have been raised by an incredible mother, and
surrounded by beautiful friends and family, all who have inspired me to stay curious, passionate and unapologetically myself.
Hannah Virgo-Colbey
What is your role at ORTC?
Product Designer at Custom by ORTC. I design digital mockups and production tech packs to ensure we meet and deliver on client briefs.
What does Accelerate Action mean to you?
I see accelerating action as acknowledging and releasing what no longer serves us - consciously confronting the plethora of outdated patriarchal ideals, messaging and limitations that Women have been prescribed
to. At it's simplest, taking bold steps towards bridging the gap to gender equality.
What does it mean to be a woman today?
Life as a woman is uniquely layered. Though we all have differing privileges and experiences, I feel we're all united in the beautiful & oftentimes complex dualities of being female.
I speak to my own experience with immense gratitude for the incredible women both around and before me & believe that being a woman today encompasses;
- Embracing Strength in Softness
- Being authentically ourselves, even in the face of
adversity. - Having the freedom to follow wants, needs &
interests over the ‘should do’s’ - Working with and not against our physical cycles &
seasons. - Nurturing ourselves as much as we subconsciously do for
others.
