Woodville High School was proud to host a special International Women’s Day event, welcoming back Old Scholar Dr Hannah Brown in partnership with Sparkle Ideas Lab The Problem Jam’ – A thinking tool for complex decisions if you are feeling Jammed. The event brought together students, staff, and members of our school community to celebrate the achievements of women and to inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
The session, led by Dr Brown, was both engaging and empowering, offering students a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about her journey from Woodville High School student to successful entrepreneur and educator. Through her work with Sparkle Ideas Lab, Dr Brown has become a passionate advocate for youth voice, creativity, and purpose-driven learning. Her return to Our Woodville was particularly meaningful, as she reflected on how her time at school helped shape her aspirations, values, and career pathway.
Throughout the event, students were encouraged to think deeply about their own potential and the impact they can have in their communities. Dr Brown spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced, the importance of resilience, and the value of embracing failure as part of growth. Her message resonated strongly with students, particularly her emphasis on backing yourself, taking risks, and pursuing opportunities that align with your passions and strengths.
A key focus of the session was empowering young women to see themselves as capable leaders in any field they choose. Dr Brown highlighted the importance of representation and the need to continue creating spaces where women’s voices are heard and valued. She also reinforced that leadership comes in many forms, whether through innovation, collaboration, advocacy, or simply having the courage to speak up and make a difference.
Students actively participated in discussions and activities throughout the session, sharing their ideas and reflecting on what International Women’s Day means to them. The interactive nature of the workshop created a supportive and inclusive environment, where students felt confident to express themselves and engage with the themes of equality, opportunity, and empowerment.
The partnership with Sparkle Ideas Lab added a dynamic and creative dimension to the event, encouraging students to think beyond traditional pathways and consider how their ideas can contribute to positive change. Through hands-on activities and thought-provoking conversations, students explored how creativity, innovation, and empathy can be powerful tools in shaping a better future.
This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of providing authentic learning experiences that connect students with real-world perspectives. By engaging with role models like Dr Hannah Brown, students are able to see what is possible beyond the classroom and gain valuable insights into the skills and mindsets needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Woodville High School is committed to fostering a culture where all students feel empowered to pursue their goals and contribute meaningfully to society. Events such as this play a vital role in supporting that vision, reinforcing our values of Diversity, Integrity, and Resilience, and encouraging students to become confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.
We extend our sincere thanks to Dr Hannah Brown and Sparkle Ideas Lab for their time, expertise, and ongoing commitment to inspiring young people. Their contribution made this International Women’s Day event a truly memorable and impactful experience for our students.
As we continue to celebrate the achievements of women and advocate for equality, we are proud to support and inspire the next generation of leaders at Woodville High School.
