Celebrating the Women of Santa Maria – International Women’s Day
In the lead up to International Women’s Day on Sunday, the Santa Maria community came together on Thursday 5 March to celebrate the women and girls who inspire, support and uplift those around them.
This year’s theme, #GivetoGain, highlights the power of generosity, mentorship and collaboration. When we share our knowledge, support one another and create opportunities for others to succeed, everyone benefits. It is a message that reflects the heart of our Mercy values and the spirit of our College community.
Supporting Women in Our Community
As part of the celebration, the Student Leadership and Representative Councils led several fundraising initiatives in support of Zonta House, a Perth based organisation that supports women and their children affected by family and domestic violence.
Students embraced the Ribbons for Provisions (R4P) initiative, donating $2.00 in exchange for a purple ribbon to wear throughout the day. Homerooms were filled with excitement as students proudly received their ribbons, and the campus quickly turned purple in a visible show of solidarity.
At recess, the Year 12 leaders hosted a lively bake sale along the Mercy Walk. Stalls were decorated in purple and filled with cupcakes, cakes and fairy bread! The Year 12s handed out the baked goods, helping make the event a big success while raising funds for an important cause.
Celebrating Strengths and Supporting One Another
Across the College, students also took part in activities during Pastoral Care Time (PCT) that reflected the #GivetoGain message.
Students in Years 5 to 8 designed creative superheroes that represented their personal strengths. Each student named their superhero, such as one student who created “Lily the Loving,” highlighting compassion as her special power. The activity reminded students that when we recognise and share our strengths, we build confidence and help those around us thrive.
Students in Years 9 to 12 focused on recognising the impact they have on one another. Through a peer affirmation activity, they shared kind words and encouragement, strengthening connections and celebrating the supportive culture within the College.
A Friendly Rivalry on the Court
To round out the celebrations, the Santa Maria IGSSA Volleyball team faced off against staff in a friendly (but slightly competitive) lunchtime match.
The game brought plenty of laughter and competitive spirit, with students cheering loudly from the sidelines. After a hard fought match, the staff claimed victory 29 – 18, but the real win was the energy and community spirit shared across the College.
For the Year 12 students, the day was particularly special as they celebrated their final International Women’s Day at Santa Maria by sharing affirmations and joining in the volleyball match.
International Women’s Day is an important moment in the Santa Maria calendar. It is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, recognise the power of community and reflect on how we can continue to support and uplift one another.
Through generosity, kindness and leadership, our students are already living out the message of #GivetoGain.
- Community Service, Empowering Young Women, Featured, Girls' Education Perth, International Women's Day, Mercy Values In Action, Santa Maria College Perth, School Community Events, Student Leadership, Zonta House fundraiser
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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