International Women's Day - 2024

Today is International Women’s Day, a day for us to reflect on the strides made towards gender equality and the ongoing journey towards inclusivity in all spheres of life. At Wildflower Holistic Services we not only recognise the significance of this day but also embody its spirit year-round through our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for our team and community. 

Founded by two women Alexandra and Rebecca and predominantly staffed by women (that's some serious girl power), our business stands as a testament to the power of female leadership and the invaluable contributions of women in the workforce. However, our dedication to inclusion goes beyond mere representation; it flows through our workplace making it a place where each individual is celebrated for their unique strengths. 

At the heart of our approach is a belief in the unique strengths and talents that each individual brings to the table. Rather than placing undue emphasis on traditional credentials or what's listed on a CV, here at Wildflower Holistic Services we celebrate the diverse skill sets and personalities that our staff members contribute to our collective space. You’ve probably heard the statistic: Men apply for a job when they meet only 60% of the qualifications, but women apply only if they meet 100% of them, which means women are continually choosing to miss out on new opportunities because they may not have the right qualification and feel a few lines on a CV far out ways advocating for their skills, ability, creative out of the box thinking and vibe fit. 

Our belief is that true inclusion isn’t about fitting into societies predetermined moulds but rather about embracing the magic of uniqueness and authenticity. When you give each human a safe place to do just that you hold the key to tapping into the huge potential that comes from seeing a person as a whole and believing in their growth. 

Our business ethos also centers around the empowerment of our employees to thrive and excel. We recognise and celebrate their wins, both big and small, and actively work to create an environment where their achievements are not only acknowledged but also championed. Our founders sign off on our performance reviews with ‘we look forward to celebrating YOU’ and that is exactly what happens not only in these time stamped meetings but every single damn day. Additionally, on Wednesdays we have #wildflowerwins, where we each share a win big or small and once a month we have #gratitudeforattitude where we express our gratitude for a staff member over the last month. As an organisation, the importance of nurturing the aspirations and dreams of staff serve as focal points in each person's career trajectories. 

Alexandra and Rebecca both attribute the success of their business and their individual careers not only to the wonderful passionate women who have surrounded them but also the men in their lives who have built them up and have believed in their huge potential to make significant change, it is far less about gender and more about seeing humans making valuable impact in this world. 

As we continue to celebrate International Women’s Day we asked some extraordinary women in our team about their career journey, why they do what they do, and what words of wisdom have made significant impact, be it for work, or life…

Georgie has been at Wildflower for over a year now on a part time basis. We could see that for Georgie, working across multiple settings would fill her up as she likes adventure and can get bored easily! However, more importantly working across multiple settings continues to give her exposure to learn new things, something that we know Georgie values in her practice. 

Georgie 

Role - Psychologist

Career overview:

I knew from my early teens that I wanted to be a psychologist. I have always loved having deep and meaningful conversations with others so of course I wanted to do it as a job. I studied an undergraduate psychology degree and a masters in school psychology before starting my career working as a school psychologist in primary and high schools in Western Sydney. This job made me very good at uno and ignited my passion for working with complex mental health issues. I also loved the way working in schools allowed me to connect with people of all different ages and cultures, and individuals that may not have been able to access external support services. I will always enjoy working in schools, but starting work at Wildflowers has definitely been a career highlight for me. The positive energy and community of Wildflowers is unmatched. My favourite part of my job here is the privilege of being along for the ride of my clients' journeys of self-discovery. I love witnessing clients realise they are not alone and have the power to make changes in their lives. 

What does success mean to Georgie?

My definition of success is to continue to grow as an individual and a clinician and to continue to positively impact the lives of others.

Advice for those starting out in their career as a Psychologist? 

It's okay to feel overwhelmed and like you are making it up as you go. Allow yourself to be in situations that make you uncomfortable and reflect A LOT. This is how you grow!

Michelle is a mum of 5 children and wanted to find that balance between supporting her family and still finding fulfilment in her career. By adjusting Michelle's work hours she was able to support both her own dreams and the needs of her family. This is a common struggle with working mums and we want to continue to prioritise women who are juggling the needs of their families with their own so they can thrive not just survive. 

Michelle 

Occupational Therapist

Career overview:

I chose OT as a career as I loved the idea of helping people in their day to day activities. I loved it even more as I began work as an OT as I could see how diverse the job could be but also how important it was to the clients and the difference that it made. I have worked in many different areas and the highlights for me were working in Hand Therapy, Burns Unit, Neurological Rehab and Aged care Rehabilitation. Now I'm working with kids and I love having the opportunity to work alongside a fantastic team of knowledgeable and caring people and meet so many unique children and their families and discover the amazing gifts and skills they have. Each day I am amazed by the kids I meet and challenged to look at each individually and work out ways to support them to achieve their goals. It is a privilege to share in the lives of others as an OT and be inspired by their determination and strength.

Quote I aim to live by:  Plant seeds of kindness wherever you go!

Advice for those starting out as an OT?

It is a fantastic career so go for it. You won't be sorry. I have enjoyed all my jobs as an OT. You meet fantastic people and work in some amazing teams and learn so much every day.  

What does success mean to you? 

Success to me is making a positive difference in someone's life. 

Jessie, our Practice Manager superstar has a diverse skill set that has taken her on adventures all around the world. We think one of her biggest strengths is the ability to make everyone she interacts with feel seen and heard and that is why we knew she would make a huge positive impact here at Wildflowers. 

Jessie

Practice Manager

Career overview:

After undergoing some significant life events, I embarked on a quest for change. I began my career at Flight Centre in 2012, where I discovered my passion for curating extraordinary adventures that allow people to immerse themselves in once-in-a-lifetime experiences, connecting them with different cultures and places. Although I had not travelled extensively before taking on this role, my eagerness to learn and meticulous attention to planning every detail to match a person's unique preferences really excited me. The thrill of rapidly booking as many holidays as possible fueled my enthusiasm, and with my determination and drive to surpass any goal or target set before myself, it was not long before I was promoted to lead a team of five to their highest potential.

I attribute my success to my ability to forge authentic connections and my commitment to giving people the attention and respect they deserve when planning their dream holiday. Fast forward to 2020, when the world came to a standstill, you could say my patience and trust were tested. I took a break and, upon feeling a sense of calling, applied for the role of Practice Manager at Wildflowers. I was seeking meaningful work where I could make a difference in communities and challenge societal constructs. I often reflect on the barriers people face when seeking services and take immense pride in the safe and authentic space we provide at Wildflowers, ensuring that our clients receive the care they deserve.

Piece of career advice you swear by?

To always keep learning and adapting. The world is constantly changing, so it's important to stay curious, open-minded, and willing to acquire new skills or knowledge. This attitude not only keeps you relevant in your field but also opens up new opportunities for growth and advancement.

Is there a life quote or philosophy you identify with or try to live by?

I try to live by "seek first to understand, then to be understood". It's a reminder to approach interactions with empathy and a genuine effort to understand others' perspectives before trying to make oneself understood.

Advice you would give to your younger self or to a young woman?

You are never too much, never too loud and never not worthy of all that you are and all you can be. 

Here at Wildflowers, we see the power in giving people the space and opportunity to reach their full potential and by doing so we have had the privilege of forming a team of inspiring women (and our wonderful Psychologist Matt) who create a ripple of impact from our business into community and beyond. We look forward to continuing to authentically show up for ourselves and the rights of women globally.