#Givetogain in fleet
From facing structural barriers and battling imposter syndrome to navigating careers after motherhood, women face many common challenges across industries and career stages.
At a recent International Women’s Day event attended by our team and some of our clients, Former New Zealand prime minister, Dame Jacinda Ardern has shared her long-term relationship with imposter syndrome.
“I have had it my entire life. I have never ever got rid of it, but I have changed how I view it. Because, that confidence gap drives us to behave in a particular way,” she said at an International Women’s Day event in Melbourne.
Her advice to women?
“Take the good that it brings and don’t let it overwhelm you.”
It’s advice like this that can be a catalyst in a woman’s career trajectory. Because when women receive the same level of career support as men, their desire to advance increases. And when women thrive, the rest of the world follows.
This International Women’s Day, we asked four women in fleet what advice actively shaped who they are today – and to share their own lessons with others.
Thank you to Amy Watts from CR Kennedy, Shereen Teixeira from Oz Child, Lorraine Walker from Merri Outreach Support Service and Nivonne Enniss from Chervon for sharing your stories.
What advice or opportunity has another woman given you that made an impact on who you are today?
Shereen: My mother instilled a strong work ethic and can-do attitude in me. Throughout her life she’s demonstrated strength and determination whilst always being kind and generous to those around her. She’s 77 this year and still working, because she doesn’t want to be bored she says.
Lorraine: Across my working life a number of amazing women have shaped my career. The greatest gift was helping me understand the power of my role and encouraging me to step into it with confidence and permission, and to love it and be proud.
Nivonne: My mother always said that when life throws you a curveball, you need the courage to change the things you can, the grace to accept the things you can’t, and the wisdom to know the difference. That advice has stayed with me throughout my life, helping me navigate challenges with perspective and resilience.
Amy: My sister’s advice changed everything for me. When I had my children, I told her I couldn’t go back to work. She said: “Your children need to see you succeed - don’t let being a mum define you.” That message has stayed with me and has shaped how I show up at work and at home.
What role does mentorship play in creating a better future for women in your industry?
Nivonne: I have predominantly worked in male dominated industries, where having a strong, successful female mentor has been critical in my development, helping me build confidence, navigate challenges and combat imposter syndrome.
Amy: Mentorship is incredibly important. It really does take a village, and women often face challenges men don’t. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by supportive colleagues, including women who champion me every day. As the only female manager in my company, I want to use my position to create change and support other women to grow and feel like they belong.
Lorraine: I found the best mentors didn't just teach me skills — they helped me recognise my own value.
Shereen: Mentorship plays an important role in creating a sense of safety and belonging for women, particularly in male dominated industries. Having mentors and providing mentorship to others is a positive way to encourage, support and lift each other up.
What advice would you give to other women entering your industry — or to your younger self just starting out?
Amy: I’ve taken a non‑linear career path — from politics studies to corporate roles, then into HR, payroll and compliance. All while navigating motherhood. One thing I’ve learned is this: don’t let being a mum define what you can achieve.
Lean on the support around you, choose workplaces that back women, and remember that hard moments don’t mean you can’t do it. I want my children to see that their mum can do anything – and that women belong wherever decisions are made.
Shereen: Be confident and trust your instincts. Ask for help where it’s needed and surround yourself with people you trust and support each other along the way.
Lorraine: Choose purpose as carefully as you choose precision. Working in the for-purpose sector, the numbers matter — but the people and impact behind them matter more.
To my younger self, I’d say trust your judgement sooner. You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room — clarity, integrity and consistency will take you further.