Conversations with Carla Zampatti on International Women’s Day

This week, for International Women’s Day, there were a number of events celebrating the achievements and success of women as well as hearing from those women who have paved the way.

The Gold District Law Association hosted a High Tea event where fashion designer, feminist and mother Carla Zampatti spoke to a room full of women about her life – the challenges and successes. She shared stories about moving to Australia as a young girl and how strange it was to not have to wear shoes to school and later on how hard it was as a young woman to start out in business on your own where the bank would not lend her money for her business venture.   As a single mother raising three young children, she told of how she felt guilty working so hard in her business and not being able to spend time with her children as much as she wanted to – but then, understanding that it was quality time not the quantity of time that was important. As a business woman she explained that it is critical to understand and be involved in every aspect of your business and the importance of having employees who are happy in their job; as those are the most productive employees. And as a fashion designer she made the room laugh when she reminded everyone of how shoulder pads in the 1980’s fashion told the world that women had arrived!

Joelene Nel, a family lawyer at McLaughlins was involved in organising and attending the event. Mclaughlins Lawyers were pleased to be able to donate a hamper raffle prize for the event.  All funds raised from the event will be donated to the Robina Community Legal Centre and The Mother’s Milk Bank.