They come from different backgrounds but for four Carinity women, 8 March has special meaning.
That date is International Women's Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
The theme of this year's International Women's Day, 'Balance the Scales', resonates strongly with Aunty Adelaide Saylor.
Her role at Carinity Education Southside - Indigenous Youth & Family Support Worker - involves advocating on behalf of young women who have faced barriers to education.
"As a proud Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Southsea woman I am keenly aware of the imbalance in our society and work every day to balance the scales," Aunty Adelaide said.
"This might look like supporting individual students and families to overcome challenges or providing an awareness of our recent histories."
Aunty Adelaide was inspired by her parents who "gave me the gift of courage and strength". Despite their struggles, her mother and father demonstrated a "resilience and determination to make a brighter future for us all".
"I pride myself on lifting others up by shining a light on their own qualities and resilience. I am particularly proud to be helping people to believe in their dreams and to begin the journey," Aunty Adelaide said.
Hailing from Zimbabwe and now working for Carinity Home Care Hervey Bay, Caroline Gower says International Women's Day "honours those who have come before us and paved the way for those who will follow".
"Growing up in Africa and watching what is going on around us in the world, International Women's Day has held deep meaning for me as it represents resilience, progress and our ongoing fight for equality," Caroline said.
"I come from a long line of determined, passionate and trailblazing women. From farmers during a brutal war, to one of the first female computer programmers in the world, my maternal line is fierce as it carries generations of strength and love.
"Their legacy is written in sacrifice and survival, and I will forever be grateful to have these women as examples for my own daughter's future."
Caroline's advice to other women and girls is: "Do not be afraid to change your mind."
"Success is not defined by following a single, expected path, but by finding meaning in the work we do. I totally changed my career in my 40s and by choosing a career based on passion and purpose, I have never been happier or more fulfilled."
Tracy Dobson, Client Services Coordinator of Carinity Our House in Toogoolawah, also recommends that women and girls challenge themselves.
"Sometimes we have to step out of our comfort zone and have a go," said Tracy, who worked in aged care, community care and mental health before embarking on a career in the disability sector.
"Things may not always go the way we hope them to and often it can feel like an uphill battle, but if we use the setbacks as learning curves the mountain becomes easier to climb."
Tracy is an advocate for others including the Carinity Our House participants she has supported and uplifted for almost a decade.
"I walk alongside them and encourage them to follow their dreams. When a participant achieves something they have been working towards, we have all been a part of that journey, so we feel their excitement," she said.
Carinity Education Gladstone student, Mercedes Mobbs, has benefitted from the support and guidance of school mentors such as VET teacher, Karen Larose, and Wellbeing Coordinator, Cassie Benjamin. These women helped Mercedes to "aspire to bigger and better things".
"They are always guiding and motivating me to achieve my personal and educational goals. This support has given me the chance to do more with and for myself than if I was at any other school," Mercedes said.
Mercedes is proud of her personal growth from a struggling student to commencing a school-based traineeship with Gladstone Hospital.
"I would have previously never attended my classes, nor do any of the work required. I have matured and developed into someone who strives to do the best that I can," she said.
Mercedes believes International Women's Day "allows women opportunities to be treated as equals" and "showcases each and everyone's achievements and abilities".
Mercedes has some advice for other girls who are facing challenges: "Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, listen to those who are willing to help, and remember that if you don't want to help yourself, others cannot help you."
