A message from Kim O’Keeffe MP, State Member for Shepparton District
OVER the years, I have been encouraged, inspired, and supported by many wonderful women, not only in our community but also from afar.
The power of encouragement, acknowledgment, and support speaks volumes. I am often humbled by the kindness and encouragement I receive, sometimes from women I don’t even know, whether through social media or other ways of connection.
But it is the women closest to me who are always there for me – my two daughters, sisters, nieces, and girlfriends, all of whom I turn to and lean on. I could not imagine my journey so far without their support.
In my former business life, where I had a salon and training school, which I ran for almost 28 years, it was mostly women who supported my business. When I had my business, I experienced firsthand the difference you could make and the impact and influence you could have on the future of those around you, whether through a conversation, a connection, advice, or guidance. Many visited my salon or participated in various professional training programs over the years, which often led to varied opportunities, personal growth, and success. Being part of the successful journeys of other women has given me great joy.
I hope my journey so far inspires others to achieve the things in life they aspire to. Our journeys are different, as are what we want to achieve in life. My greatest wish is to encourage other women to look at the opportunities and possibilities of whatever it is that they aspire to or hope to achieve.
From a small, long-term business owner, followed by six years in Local Government, including almost four years as Mayor, and now in my current role as the State Member of Parliament for the Shepparton District, it has been a transition of change, opportunity, and personal growth. It has also been challenging and, at times, scary to take that leap of faith out of my comfort zone.
Looking back on my journey, I never dreamed that I would end up in politics, but my experiences, the want to serve the community, and the belief in me from other inspiring women have led me here. The community is also here with me on this journey. They elected me to represent them, and I take that with the highest of gratitude, respect, and responsibility.
When I walk up the stairs of Parliament House, I walk through those doors representing the people of my electorate. I feel incredibly proud to represent the region and have such a strong sense of responsibility that I will never take for granted. As a leader in the community, I want to encourage other women also to aspire to be leaders in their communities. We have local council elections at the end of this year, and we need more women in politics. But there are many ways that you can make a difference and show leadership.
I want to acknowledge the incredible women out there and encourage you to mentor and be a strong role model to others. You never know what that might mean to someone, or if it’s time for a change, maybe take that leap of faith – you never know where that might lead you.
Happy International Women’s Day!
