International Women's Day has thrown the gauntlet down with its 2021 theme - #choosetochallenge.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
While women have always had the guts to break the glass ceiling, there is still more that needs doing.
In the lead up to International Women's Day, The Examiner has spoken with 10 inspirational Tasmanian who are paving the way for change.
'I never wanted to be one of the boys'
As a firefighter, Sandra McCann never wanted to be one of the boys.
Rather, she always strived to be part of a team, while paving the way for other women in a male dominated job.
As the first female station officer within the Tasmania Fire Service - a role she has held permanently since 2016 - it's meant being open to new challenges and experiences.
Challenging rural women to fight back
As someone who experienced regular inappropriate touching during her time in the workforce, Belinda Hazell resolved then that the script needed to be flipped.
"My challenge is to start these conversations, to be having them now [on sexual harassment and appropriate behaviour in the workplace], let's not wait until an incident has occurred," she said.
Maddy Jane takes on world
Under the hue of pink and blue lighting at the Royal Oak on Saturday night, Maddy Jane seemed completely tranced in the moment as she worked the crowd to hit after hit from her debut album, Not All Bad Or Good.
It is not unsurprising but the depth of her answers showcase a songwriter who believes in music as more than just a job, perhaps, a vehicle to promote change.
FULL STORY: Maddy Jane on her fight for equality
Highest ranking female cop rises to challenge
When Donna Adams entered the police force, female officers were required to carry their handcuffs and baton in a black handbag, while the only toilet for women was located in a male block.
Fortunately, the now Acting Deputy Commissioner of Tasmania Police said things had come a long way in the past three decades.
FULL STORY: Highest ranked female cops rises to challenge
Gains made, but still more to do
It's not enough to just talk about equality - leaders need to work with with industries to take action.
This, according to Tasmania's Minister for Women Sarah Courtney, who said the state is continuing to make gains in creating a more inclusive society.
However, she said more work needs to be done, particularly when it comes to reducing barriers for women seeking and gaining employment in stable, high-paying and diverse industry roles.
First female paramedic talks 'make or break' moments
Catherine McNamara's career is full of firsts - most of which have been defined by her gender.
When she joined the Tasmanian Ambulance Service in 1985 she was the only woman employed as a paramedic in the state. She experienced one particular "make or break" moment from the beginning of her career where her knickers were hung on display for everyone to see.
Mayor's leadership inspires all
Northern Midlands Mayor Mary Knowles has been recognised with an International Women's Day leadership award.
Cr Knowles is a survivor of horrific and persistent sexual abuse and family violence who, at one point, feared for her life. Because of this experience, she has become a strong advocate for preventing violence against women and has worked hard to reach her goals.
Nursing director a great role model
Fiona Young never had great aspirations to work in management, but she always had great role models who pushed her to succeed.
While grateful for the opportunities that she was given, Ms Young said she had learnt over the years to have more faith in her own abilities - and encourages other women to do the same.
"My message - trust in yourself and your capabilities. We are all stronger than we sometimes recognise," she said.
Trail blazer on life and the 'glass ceiling'
"While I rise to follow the historic tradition of this House of making my 'maiden' speech I would like the House to recognise that I am a woman and, in defiance of that anachronism, this should be known as my 'first' speech."
These were the first words uttered in the halls of parliament by fierce former Tasmanian politician Judy Jackson. Ms Jackson undoubtedly trail-blazed a path for women to enter politics in Tasmania.
Breaking down barriers in the world of business start-ups
Launching a start-up is a daunting task, but Andi Lucas has taken it in her stride as she attempts to tap into the growing hemp products industry in Tasmania.
But it has also shown her how many barriers women face in the workplace, something she is determined to overcome as her company continues to grow.