Be Inspired on International Women's Day

Lisbeth, DL Teacher

International Women's Day is celebrated around the world on March 8th. It is a day to reflect on women's equality, to recognise women's rights and to encourage women to be strong and resilient in difficult times.There are many women in history who achieved great things in difficult times. They did this with strength and resilience. They achieved great things in literature, politics, sport science charity and much more.These women inspire us to be like them, to be smart, strong and work hard.

On the new EVENTS tab there is an International Women's Day slideshow and lesson activities. Write your own inspirational quote to contribute to our 'Words of Wisdom' slideshow.

This week's blog is an inspirational interview with one of our most experienced DL teachers, Lisbeth. 

Hi Lisbeth, tell us about your background.
I'm from Sweden.  I live with my husband in Sydney and I have 2 children and 4 grandchildren.
When did you decide to come to Australia?
When I was 19 I worked on a sailing ship that brought me to Australia where I first met my husband. After we got married we lived in Sweden and had 2 children.  I didn't come to live in Australia until I was 35.
How did you end up teaching in the AMEP?
In the late 70's there were thousands of people arriving from Vietnam so I got a job as an adult migrant English teacher.  This has been my career ever since.
What are the highlights of your career?
I was a Principal in the Adult Migrant English Service.  I have taught English in 5 countries: Sweden, England, Hong Kong, Belgium and Australia and I am still teaching in DL. Besides that, I'm currently the only Swedish Interpreter in Sydney.
What keeps you going?
I love my job because I feel I'm making a difference to my students' lives by helping them.
Do you have any interests other than work?
I love travelling.  I've been to 78 countries.  I also sing soprano in a choir. I'm part of the Swedish community in Sydney and join in many multicultural events.
What have been the main challenges in your life?
It wasn't easy to leave my homeland and it took a long time to feel settled in Australia.  My children spoke no English and I was disappointed that I couldn't do the same job as I did in Sweden as a Primary School Teacher. Of course, I missed my family. It took me 3 years to get the right qualifications.  Another big challenge was when I was diagnosed with breast cancer 9 years ago and had to go through years of treatment.
What would you say is your strength?
I always see the glass half full, which means I'm a positive person and try to look at the bright side.
What female figure inspired you and why?
My mother was a wonderful role model for me.  She loved me utterly and gave me confidence.
What advice would you give young women?
Follow your dream! Seize the day!  Never say I can't do it.... in Australia everyone can have a fair go!

Go to the 'Events' tab above for this week's activities.