"We are in this together—not as either or, but as us."
As we commemorate International Women's Day 2025 under the banner of #AccelerateAction, we celebrate progress while recognising the challenges that remain. The Fiona Wood Foundation is proud to champion exceptional talent, visionary leadership, and collaboration—qualities that drive our mission forward.
At the Fiona Wood Foundation, we believe diversity is the engine of innovation, and we are incredibly proud that over 50% of our board of directors and research team are women. This representation is not just a statistic—it reflects our commitment to ensuring the best minds lead, regardless of gender, background, or circumstance.
However, beyond our organisation and despite increasing representation in STEM, research, and medicine, outdated beliefs continue to hinder inclusivity. A persistent myth is that women must choose between career and family, though work-life balance challenges affect all genders. Other misconceptions persist, such as the belief that women are less suited for engineering, physics, and AI or that their contributions are less innovative. Studies show that women-led research is cited less often, and gender bias influences funding and hiring. Overcoming these barriers requires more than awareness—it demands action to challenge stereotypes, improve policies, and foster truly inclusive environments.
Fiona’s journey—from a coal mining village in England to becoming WA’s first female plastic surgeon and a world leader in burns research—was shaped by hard work, determination, and the support of those who valued talent over bias. Along the way, she was backed by both men and women who recognised her potential, proving that real progress is not about division but about creating opportunities for all.
Building on the work of those before us requires a collective effort. Diversity is not a box to tick—it is the engine of innovation, ensuring that the best minds lead, regardless of gender, background, or circumstance. Rather than viewing gender as a single variable, we must recognise that we are in this together—not as either or, but as us.
The real question is how we help others realise their potential. This is particularly important for young people, who are still discovering their own paths. Instead of imposing limitations, we must foster an environment where they have the confidence to ask why not? rather than accept no as an answer.
At the Foundation, #AccelerateAction is more than a theme for the day—it is embedded in our research, daily work, and vision for the future. By breaking barriers and creating opportunities, we are shaping a legacy that proves there are no limits to what we can achieve when we stand as one.