Young Labor Women's Training Seminar

YL Women's Training Seminar

By Crystal Validakis 

Speaking up and voicing your point of view is an incredibly empowering experience. It feels great to speak up about problems like the objectification of women, or the persistent difference in how much men and women are paid for equal work. But it feels even better when you go beyond just talking about these problems, and start sharing possible solutions.

The Women’s Policy and Training Day earlier this year, gave me an opportunity to talk about a number of issues affecting Australian women, while also giving me the chance to suggest solutions to those problems. By creating my own mock campaign, addressing the ‘objectification and exploitation of young women and girls in the media,’ I saw how I could use my creativity and my voice to improve the social and political status of women.

My campaign slogan was, ‘I have something to say.’ A statement that I think applies to every Australian woman, regardless of her age or occupation. By providing more opportunities for women to be seen, heard and respected, we can move even further away from the perception of women as objects, rather than individuals with incredible potential.

The Labor Party boasts some amazing female politicians. Julia Gillard, Kristina Kenneally; these women are seen and heard by the Australian people. They’re my role models, as a young woman who has quite a lot to say, and wants to make sure that she is heard.  Taking part in the Women’s Policy and Training Day gave me the opportunity to see how I can follow the political footsteps of those I most admire.