IWD22 - Kemrie Corrins

What does international women’s day mean to you?

To me it’s about celebration. More often than not, the oppressed are not celebrated and history tends backs that up. The Acknowledgement of women deserving a day to celebrate themselves and those around them is a great step in the right direction. It’s important for everyone, not just us. It’s a day to reflect on the positive female influences you have around you.

This year’s theme is “breaking the Bias”, what will you do differently this year to help break the bias?

This year I will try to break the Bias by starting and not shying away from conversations about the Bias around women. In the past I would have filtered my conversations down to not have such a ‘strong opinion’ about celebrating women. When in reality, everybody needs to have these conversations, because everyone deserves the chance to learn and grow no matter where they are in life.

Who has been most influential woman in your life?

Ugh, I have TOO many. My closest friends Natalie, Rebekah and Emma. They have unconditionally loved and supported me and showed me what it means to be a good friend and I feel lucky to have had them in my life since I was a teen.

What one thing would people be most surprised to learn about you?

I have 5 brothers, no sisters.

Did you always know you wanted to do the role as a Business Operations Analyst?

I started as a customer service advisor at E.on to help me save to travel. I went travelling and managed to come back to the same role and then worked my way up and found myself in district heating.

Is there any advice you would give to past, current, or future self, or to other women?

Keep being present and keep being heard. When your opinions are in favour of equality for everyone, it’s important to speak up, especially for the people without a voice.