Visitor inspires leavers

Visitor inspires leavers

“Aspire to achievement and leadership and have the confidence to back yourself”.

These inspirational words came from Helene Quilter, Secretary of Defence and CEO of the Ministry of Defence, during her address at Baradene College for the schools senior girls prize giving.

A former student and boarder, Ms Quilter graduated in 1971 and describes her years at Baradene College as a defining time in her life. “I loved everything about Baradene, “ says Helene. “I was surrounded by love and care from the Sisters and teaching staff and to this day I continue to hold Sister Anne O’Rourke, the Principal in my final year, in very high regard.”

Ms Quilter shared with the school leavers many inspirational first-hand experiences from her 35-year career in public service, where she has held senior roles managing the performance of chief executives in the justice, defence, intelligence and foreign affairs agencies in both the State Services Commission and the Ministry of Social Services.

She strongly urged the young women to think beyond normal, traditional career paths – to look expansively and broaden their range of options, particularly into the fields of medicine, technology and engineering.

On whether she believed there were barriers for women in leadership roles within government she felt the opposite is true; careers are encouraged. “Having self-believe is important. The more skills we learn helps to break down the barriers we sometimes impose on ourselves.”

“Don’t worry if you have five different jobs before finding your place – its all good education,” says Helene. “A few years ago, at an executive leadership course in the USA, I spoke with a woman who held the impressive role of overseeing the countries submarine design!”

Principal Sandy Pasley thanked Ms Quilter saying, “She has inspired our students to think about leadership positions they may take in the international community which challenge traditional roles and to do so with the Faith and values they have received from their Baradene education.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media