‘Empowered Giving for a Fairer Future’ from Australians Investing In Women is an inspiring series of short videos featuring some of Australia’s most influential voices in philanthropy, produced by Australians Investing In Women

In episode 7 philanthropist Cathy Scalzo, the Interim Chair of Australians Investing In Women and trustee of the Grace and Emilio Foundation, shares how her family history has influenced her perspective on gender equality. She grew up hearing stories about the women in her family, like her grandmother and mother-in-law, who were incredibly capable but held back by societal norms and economic hardships. These experiences have helped shaped her thinking.

During her diplomatic career, Cathy saw the ongoing challenges of gender inequality around the world. While some places have made progress, others still face significant gender apartheid. Cathy highlights the importance of applying a “gender lens”—a way of considering how gender impacts decisions and outcomes—when addressing social issues.

She shares practical examples of this approach. One is her foundation’s support for Backtrack, an organisation that helps disengaged young people. Their programs mostly catered to boys, so Cathy’s family foundation funded the conversion of a farmhouse into accommodation specifically for girls, allowing them to engage in the programs.

Cathy believes that challenging gender norms benefits everyone—not just women and girls. She explains that breaking stereotypes also helps boys and men live more freely, without being confined by societal expectations. For Cathy, a gender-equal society is one that benefits the entire community.

➡️ Watch Episode 7 today: https://lnkd.in/gH9Qy9P9

Stay tuned for the next thought-provoking episode, to be released in Jan 2025. Produced by Ella Mitchell with filmmaker Maggie Eudes.

We thank The Besen Family Foundation for supporting this series and Philanthropy Australia for sharing this series with their members.