This week, Wests Tigers commemorated the upcoming International Women's Day with an inspiring event held for club staff and sponsors.
With a keynote address by Wests Tigers Director Annabelle Williams OAM just one item on the agenda, the event celebrated the women of the club and provided collaborative opportunities for females across the Wests Tigers family to connect.
Following a morning pilates session and breakfast, Williams, a Paralympic Gold Medallist, motivational speaker, business owner, TV presenter, lawyer, board director and mother, shared many life experiences with those in attendance.
Annabelle has shattered barriers and redefined strength, not just by overcoming disability but also by her unwavering belief in the power of resilience, self-belief, and inclusion. She reminds us all that, "You're capable of so much more than you think."
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Wests Tigers are also delighted to launch the "Women of Wests Tigers - Leadership Scholarship". This initiative will nominate a female leader from Wests Tigers for the next intake of the NSWRL Women in Sport Leadership (WISL) program in 2025.
Participants in the program will gain access to leadership training, mentorship, and career development opportunities, equipping them with the skills and confidence to take the next step in their leadership journey within Wests Tigers.
Whether they’re members of our NRLW team, club staff, or anywhere in between, the women of Wests Tigers play a major role in defining who the club is and what they represent.
On International Women's Day and every other day, Wests Tigers celebrate their women and their many contributions.
44% of Wests Tigers club staff are women, exceeding the club average of 39.4%. Females also make up 30% of our Board and 33% of our Executive Team.
The female Board representation comprises two of the club’s new independent Directors, Annabelle Williams and Michelle McDowell, who also attended Wednesday’s event.
Across the club’s staff, women take up significant roles in numerous departments, including Football.
Wests Tigers Head of People and Culture Charmain Steventon, who hosted Wednesday’s event, is extremely proud of the inclusive environment the club has developed.
“Whether it’s in sport, business, or leadership, women bring unique strengths and perspectives that should be championed and celebrated,” says Steventon.
“I draw upon my elite sporting background here [former Wallaroo] to foster a high-performance culture, support career development, and empower the next generation of female leaders.
“This year’s IWD theme of 'Accelerate Action' is a powerful reminder that we all have a role in driving change.”
Wests Tigers is committed to addressing gender balance in the workplace and has implemented several programs to ensure this goal is achieved.
Gender-balanced recruitment practices, such as ensuring a female candidate is interviewed for every role, abiding by enhanced parental leave policies, and fostering Women in Leadership & Career Development Programs, such as the previously discussed Leadership Scholarship, help to make Wests Tigers a truly inclusive organisation.
