A message from our CEO
I’m delighted to welcome you to the Autumn 2024 edition of Mary’s News Today. I’m pleased to share that this edition is centred around one of Mary MacKillop Today’s core approaches, ‘Women at the Heart.’
Saint Mary MacKillop was not only an incredibly inspiring woman herself, but she also drew other inspiring women to join her in her work as Sisters of Saint Joseph.
I often think about what Mary’s work would look like today. I have no doubt that continuing her life changing legacy means keeping women the focal point to both our story, and the communities we serve.
From our experience, we know:
- Women and girls are among the most overlooked people in the world, particularly when it comes to accessing education.
- One of the best ways to help women to help themselves is by providing them with education opportunities to achieve economic independence.
- When women are lifted up to become powerful change makers, their entire communities flourish!
Around the world, girls are often the first to be left behind when it comes to education. The cycle of inequality continues as girls grow into adulthood where many women earn less, save less and have less secure jobs — pushing them even further to the margins.
Inspired by a woman and guided by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, our organisation continues to recognise women as central to helping people reach their full potential and flourish.
This is why we have selected stories to share with you that highlight the impact of our women’s programs and women telling their own story.
You’re supporting young women like Kaylah here in Australia, who says she can finally feel proud of herself and is setting goals for her future.
You’re helping women like Rosita in Timor-Leste, who is part of a cooperative group where she accesses resources and learns skills to run her own business.
And you’re giving women like Ana in Fiji the leadership skills she seeks to reach her goals.
Our dedication to changing lives for those facing poverty and marginalisation grows stronger with each year. As we look to the next five years, I’m pleased to share with you that we have a new strategic plan. To view this, please visit Strategic Plan 2023-2028.
With you by our side, we’ll focus on the parts of our work that bring about real and lasting impact. You’ll help to amplify our voice in advocating for change through education initiatives.
Thank you for continuing Mary’s extraordinary legacy. Together, we will meet every challenge to help people create better life opportunities – for today and tomorrow.
With gratitude,
Jane Woolford
Chief Executive Officer
