From one woman to another: The power of lifting each other up this IWD💜(Part 2 of 2)

There were moments when I wasn’t sure this newsletter would ever exist.

When I first started exploring the idea of launching something for women in nonprofit leadership, I spent years questioning if I should do it. 

The concept went through different iterations, doubts and restarts, but every time I hesitated, it was the women around me who pushed me forward.

Some offered practical advice: “Start small and refine as you go.”

Some simply reminded me why my voice mattered: “Women need spaces like this.”

Without those conversations and that generosity of time, insight and encouragement, this newsletter wouldn’t have made it past the idea stage.

And to me, that’s the power of women sharing wisdom with other women. It shapes how we tackle challenges, step into leadership and move forward despite uncertainty.

That’s why, for part 2 of this special International Women’s Day edition, I turned to a panel of 11 fabulous women leading for purpose and asked:

What’s one lesson you’ve learned from another woman that transformed how you tackle challenges?

Their responses show the impact of what happens when women lift each other up, not just on IWD but every day.

Here’s what they had to say 👇

— Sharon Brine, Founder and Editor (Follow me on LinkedIn)

💡Self-belief & confidence: Overcoming doubt and owning your strength

Sarah, Executive Director, Hepatitis ACT

A mentor once told me: “The way you talk to yourself matters just as much as how you advocate for others.”

She helped me recognise how imposter syndrome was shaping my self-talk and holding me back. That lesson transformed how I approach challenges—not with self-doubt, but with the confidence that I belong in the room.

Hilary, Tumuaki/CEO, Homes of Hope Charitable Trust

Ah - soooo many lessons! And continuing!

Lessons about insecurity, negative self-talk, imposter syndrome, and fear.

Lessons about others' behaviour and how we do or don't allow this to affect us, and to what degree.

The wisdom to know when to act, to ignore, to pursue, or to simply 'be' without apology.

The story inside our head and testing its validity.

This last one was a wonderfully illuminating moment learnt from the amazing Brene Brown, which transformed my approach to managing relationships, particularly at work, and enabled me to take the time to reflect, the courage to acknowledge, and freed me from my own “all of the above!”

Sharon, CEO, Karralika Programs

I have learned so much from so many both personally and professionally - and while context or advice may differ, everything seems to boil down to 'integrity'.

Having integrity in the way we present, interact with others, make decisions and live our lives is critical. Staying true to oneself, respecting ourselves and expecting (or even demanding) others to show us the same respect whatever our role is - as leaders, colleagues, partners/family, members of the community.

In some communities, workplaces and countries this may seem out of reach - but we are worthy, we have a lot to give (and always plenty to learn), and we are never alone.

💡Leadership & decision-making: The strength to lead with purpose

Lindsay, CEO, The Andrew Ziehl Foundation

Golda Meir was a leader known for her resilience, decisiveness, and unwavering dedication to her country.

One of her greatest strengths was her ability to face challenges head-on, often in times of great crisis. She once said, "Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life."

The moment I truly realised my strength was when I lost my only child in 2020.

It could have broken me entirely, but instead, I chose to rise again and turn pain into purpose through the Andrew Ziehl Foundation.

The greatest "aha moment" was realising that strength is not about never breaking—it’s about always getting back up.

Paula, Chief Legal and Governance Officer, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

One simple lesson I learned from a woman mentor was the importance of resilience and creating a space to work in.

She taught me that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to grow stronger. Her unwavering determination and ability to find solutions in the face of adversity have inspired me to change my approach to tackling challenges, making me more adaptable and resourceful.

Aneri, Climate Ecosystem Builder, One of a Kind Ltd

My executive coach really helped me break down what feels like unsurmountable challenges into small actionable steps. This is helpful because as leaders we like to keep our eyes on the big picture, but small actions are just as important in reaching our larger goals!

💡Advocacy & breaking barriers: Fighting for change and paving the way

Tracy, CEO, Change to Come

I have learned that Black women have fought for their rights and equality since the beginning of slavery.

Black women have not been recognised for their contribution to America. We have been ostracised from every part of history. It's important for me as a black woman to continue the fight.

Geetha, CEO, Room to Read

One of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned came from my mother, who defied traditional expectations to pursue her education. She taught me that resilience, curiosity, and conviction are essential in breaking barriers.

As a leader, I carry these lessons forward by working towards systemic long-term solutions that ensure girls everywhere have the same opportunities to choose their own paths.

Investing in girls’ education isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smartest investment we can make for a more equitable and prosperous world.

Dr Sherry, President, Foundation for Chiropractic Progress

This statement has been a guiding force throughout my adult life: "This too shall pass."

In moments of overwhelming stress, deep sorrow, or profound disappointment, these words ground me. They remind me that no challenge—no matter how crushing in the moment—is permanent. Each hardship carries the potential for growth, resilience, and renewal.

When I feel consumed by adversity, this simple yet powerful truth restores my clarity, reignites my hope, and strengthens my faith that I have the power to rise, endure, and overcome once more.

💡Purpose & legacy: Creating impact beyond ourselves

Sandy, Founder/Team Mum, Hoa Motuhake Sports Trust

The Trust's name was inspired by my daughter, Anneke, who, after undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumor at 12 years old, founded the Special Friends Trust to support other children in hospital.

Her dedication to the local community motivated the establishment of the Hoa Motuhake Sports Trust in 2020.

Jo, Founder/CEO, mainly music

I'd say there are many women leaders who have influenced me.

They have shown tenacity in the face of adversity. They have been examples of creativity in moments when they've been up against the wall.

They have prayed, pondered, reflected, ruminated - and then got on with the job based on the answer to prayer, the light that went on, the need to apologise, the need to gather people together and go forward.

Let’s keep this cycle of wisdom alive! Think about the best piece of advice a woman has ever given to you. How did it change the way you lead?

And more importantly—who will you pass it on to?

Did you miss part 1? Catch up on what IWD means to nonprofit women leading change today.

Every changemaker has a soundtrack. Our evolving playlist features the songs powering the remarkable women in our Women for Purpose community - the music that moves, inspires, and drives them.

Listen to today’s featured track below or enjoy our collective soundtrack on Spotify 🎧🎵