The Women Around Us #IWD2024

June 2024
#InternationalWomensDay is an important day to celebrate female achievements, personal and professional.
The theme this year is #InspireInclusion. When women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. The aim is is to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women.
At Covetear, we believe that women have the power to lead, to inspire, and to prosper in an inclusive, bias free world.  We interviewed five inspiring females - groundbreakers, muses and friends to share what International Womens Day means to them. 

 

Talitha Cummins

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a mother of two extremely beautiful and energetic children, married to an extremely energetic husband who runs marathons and owns a fitness business. I have recently started my own business in the diamond industry after a 20 Year career in broadcast television. 

What is your proudest achievement?

I’m very proud I found the courage to start my own business. It couldn’t have done it any earlier. Some people are born with a strong sense of self confidence but it took me a while to grow into myself. 

The launch of The Cut Jewellery has been challenging yet so rewarding - selling my first bespoke engagement ring is a moment I’ll never forget. 

Which women inspire you the most?

I’ve always respected women who give to others - their stories, their time, their knowledge. My grandmother used to volunteer at St Vincent de Paul every week, Dame Elizabeth Murdoch was patron of 90 charities - despite her wealth she gave back tremendously. When I launched my business, so many fabulous women reached out and offered their help - selfless women who exist for the greater good.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you? 

Women are strong, capable, intelligent, nurturing and empathetic. Imagine what a world it would be if we were genuinely inclusive and represented equally. 

What advice do you have for women who struggle to step out of their comfort zone for fear of failure?

Nothing worth doing feels easy and  comfortable. Take the first step towards what it is you want to do and acknowledge that you’ll feel fear, but it’s a good signal you’re pushing towards growth. Most things terrify me. I just got comfortable with the fear!

Lastly - what piercing will you dare to have next, and what piece of Covetear jewellery will you use?

I adore my Covetear piercings and jewellery. The diamond bolt is getting in my ear very soon! Mid ear please!!

Instagram @talithacummins

Heather Inwood

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I will be 69 this year, I am retired and at 62 I challenged myself to live my dream, which was to prove that older women should be featured in magazine advertising. Having experienced freelance modelling in my younger years and hearing those words " you are too old to model" at 30, had really grated on me. Now, to see the current changes in recent years by Editors, the fashion & beauty industry has been rewarding.

What is your proudest achievement?

When I was in my twenties I opened an exclusive high end lingerie boutique. It was not fashionable at the time, to run against the norm, which in those days was mid-range underwear sold mainly in department stores. My proudest moment was when I was congratulated by Bendon for doing so. And my 2nd proudest is, of course, that I took the leap into senior modelling at the unfashionable age of 62.

Which women inspire you the most?

In my teen years I was inspired by Jane Fonda for protesting against the Vietnam war & Author Germaine Greer but as I've grown older, I have learnt to admire those strong women who have had to face enormous challenges & hardship in their lives to move forward. I do admire women who are in Politics, a world which was once dominated by men.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you? 

To this day, as with my youth, the drums are still beating for women to shine more. The changes over the last 50 years have been huge, but I believe to continue forging ahead we have to keep beating those drums with power & strength to continue to be seen & heard.

What advice do you have for women who struggle to step out of their comfort zone for fear of failure?

"You have but one life, live it" they say. TRUE. The thought of not trying will haunt you more than trying & failing. Confidence grows with every step you take, & self-doubt will always try to eat you up - but give yourself a chance. Be free.

Lastly - what piercing will you dare to have next, and what piece of Covetear jewellery will you use?

Ears are my only choice for piercing! I have always fancied multiple ear piercings. Who knows what the future will bring.

Instagram @kiwiheather82 Photo Credit @by_ridley @andymyers_photo

Jaz Hand

 

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Jaz, 30 years old from the gorgeous Gold Coast. Born and raised here and feel so lucky to call this place home! I am a full time content creator/influencer and have been for 9 years now (wow time flies!!) In 2020, I launched my jewellery brand Jaz Hand Made and it was the best decision I have made! 

What is your proudest achievement?

Definitely being able to work for myself for the past 9 years doing what I'm truly passionate about + launching my jewellery brand Jaz Hand Made

Which women inspire you the most?

My mum & Baka (grandma) - they are some of the strongest and hardworking women I have ever met & my bestie Riley Hemson.

 

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you? 

By giving women the resources and opportunities they deserve, we unlock their full potential, promote equality, and create a more inclusive world <3

What advice do you have for women who struggle to step out of their comfort zone for fear of failure?

Just do it! The hardest part of stepping out of your comfort zone is taking that first step. If the passion is there, you will be exactly where you need to be.

Lastly - what piercing will you dare to have next, and what piece of Covetear jewellery will you use?
Ohhhhh this is a tricky one because I want so many lol but I’ve wanted mid helix piercing in the middle of my ear (if that even makes sense) or one very high up my lobe!

Instagram @jazhand 

Tess Robinson 

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am 'Mama' to two young (read: adorable and exhausting) children, as well as a devoted partner, business owner (Smack Bang and a few others), sister, daughter, and friend trying to 'do it all' whilst simultaneously being proud of who I am amongst the juggle and chaos. 

What is your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement is an ongoing one — Integrating all aspects of my identity into the one show that is my life. The 'roles' of my identity are varied and the parts that make me whole are at once beautiful but often colliding. Some days I run from being at an imaginary tea party, to having a meeting with an investor, to presenting client work, to cooking dinner for my family, to cleaning vomit off the floor, to a game of basketball, to being back to my desk at 9pm send off that last email. I often catch myself realising the wild and wonderful nature of this 'integration' by noticing the sheer oddity of objects in my handbag - The most absurd collection that represents all the different aspects of my life. 
...And, of course, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Which women inspire you the most?

I've always admired women who are rich in experience and interests, totaling a robust outlook on life, that is at once open and opinionated. I love women who stand for something, are true to themselves and have seemingly conflicting or varied interests, but string it all together with grace and gusto. 

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you? 

I think women are natural born inclusive inspirers — it's in our very nature to bring life, sew it together and elevate it higher. If only the systems of the world would let us live the power of this magic to lead the world towards love.

What advice do you have for women who struggle to step out of their comfort zone for fear of failure?

It sounds cliche, but the saying 'No risk, no reward' is a huge motivator for me. In this one wild and precious life, there's no re-run. With only one shot, it's so important to ask how you will live your life? The concept of regret is one that haunts me into action.  

Lastly - what piercing will you dare to have next, and what piece of Covetear jewellery will you use?
I would love double mid-ear piercings right next to each other.

Instagram @tess__robinson

Kathleen de Leon Jones Hi5 

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up performing and was part of iconic musicals like the original cast of Miss Saigon and Rent. This later led me to be part of the world-acclaimed TV show Hi-5.  After over a decade of living in the US with my family we have now returned home to Australia. 

What is your proudest achievement?

My biggest and proudest achievement is undoubtedly my family. With a devoted, supportive and loving husband by my side, along with two amazing daughters, we’ve created a loving and nurturing environment where each of us inspires and uplifts the other. They serve as constant reminders of the importance of love, dedication, and personal growth,  that continue to enhance my life and guide me to become the best version of myself.

Which women inspire you the most?

The women who inspire me are remarkable in their resilience and determination, foremost among them being my mother. Despite facing adversity, she emigrated to Australia when I was just a baby, navigating unfamiliar terrain with courage and grace. In a career dominated by men, she carved her path, demonstrating unwavering strength and determination. Her journey taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and courage, paving the way for me and my daughters to pursue our dreams fearlessly. Her example serves as a constant reminder that with determination, anything is possible.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #InspireInclusion. What does this mean to you? 

For me, this stems from recognising the value and uniqueness each individual brings to the table, regardless of differences. It's about fostering an environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and appreciated for their perspectives and contributions… actively seeking out diverse voices, challenge biases, and creating spaces where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can thrive together. It's about celebrating diversity and understanding that it strengthens our communities.

What advice do you have for women who struggle to step out of their comfort zone for fear of failure?

It’s important to remember that growth often occurs outside of our comfort zone.
Remember that stepping outside your comfort zone is not about being fearless, but rather about having the courage to take action despite your fears.

Lastly - what piercing will you dare to have next, and what piece of Covetear jewellery will you use?
I can’t wait for my next piercing! I love my last hidden helix piercing you gave me a few months ago. I’m taking suggestions for my next one 😜

Instagram @kathleendeleonjones

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