On International Women’s Day, female leaders from the cargo team in Australia share their reflections on allyship and gender equality. Their stories show what can be achieved when we support those around us, especially those in under-represented groups.

Kayla Moa, General Manager Cargo – NSW & ACT
“I’ve had many instances of allyship throughout my career. The most impactful was at the beginning of my management journey when being a female working in a cargo management role was not the norm. I strived to ensure my contribution was the same as my male colleagues however, I was packaged differently.

Instead of my differences being shunned - they were celebrated. Not only were they celebrated, but I was also encouraged.

I now have the opportunity to ‘pay it forward’. My personal experience of allyship in my early career has helped pave the way for me to be an ally for my team. International Women’s Day for me holds much more meaning than just celebrating the amazing women we have here at Menzies.

It symbolizes inclusion. Whether that be gender, race, ethnicity or orientation – all our contributions are valued. We are diverse. We are celebrated. We are Menzies.”

Ann Look, Terminal Manager, Gold Coast International Airport, Queensland
“My name is Ann Look and I am a Terminal Manager in Queensland. I have had the privilege to work and grow with Menzies for 14 years. Menzies has always supported diversity in the industry, and I try my best to ensure this is reflected in my teams through mentorship and leadership.

I would not be in my position without the support from colleagues. As the business has grown, it has opened many doors for development. Working closely with Dagmara Sobczak, Terminal Manager Brisbane; Trisha Bettany, QLD Training Manager; and Kelli Prentice, Operations Manager Cairns, we have contributed to regional growth in Queensland. We have all been mentored by the best, Kayla Moa, and we are grateful to have her support for our careers.

I am a firm believer that those around you make you a better person and that diversity is a strong leading force in today’s society.”

Thorpe Waluew, Duty Cargo Manager, Gold Coast International Airport, Queensland
"I have been with Menzies for nearly 10 years. My manager, Annie Look, has been my mentor since I started in the industry. I see Annie most days and I see the effort and care she puts into the whole team here on the Gold Coast, not to mention mentoring colleagues across the Queensland region. She lifts the team and helps us to do better. She sets us goals and ensures we reach them for our own personal development.

Annie is a strong female leader and I see her pouring her soul into her team so she can give us every opportunity to grow.

I have many strong women in my life and without them, I would not be the person I am today. I believe our industry is open to diversity in the workplace and I thank Menzies Aviation for supporting that.”

Allyship from a different perspective
Allyship has many perspectives, here are reflections from male leaders on what allyship and diversity mean to them.

Brandon Keremelevski, United Cargo Operations Manager - Cargo Australia 
“Before transferring to cargo, I worked in baggage/ramp for six years, which is a heavily male-dominated workplace. On moving to cargo, I immediately noticed the benefits of having women in leadership roles. From the very first day, I was supported to improve my skills and received guidance to help me to progress to higher roles within the company. Women leaders have had a positive impact on my career and day-to-day experience at Menzies.

Following two years working at cargo, I’ve seen my career accelerate and I am now proud to be the United Cargo Operations Manager for Australia. Allyship is twofold and important to the success of everyone, as demonstrated in my own personal career story.”

Andrew Tonna, Cargo Performance & Development Manager, OSEA
“In my own personal experience, my father worked three jobs whilst my mother stayed home. During my 25-year career, the majority of my colleagues and direct reports have been male. I believe that diversity in the workplace is so important and with two male children, it’s important to me that they experience a more inclusive and diverse society and workplaces.

I am extremely grateful that I can now see an increase in women at all levels in our business and look forward to further contributing to the changes that will further improve gender equality.”

Beau Paine, RVP Cargo, Australia
“As a leader, I’ve learnt very quickly to surround yourself with good people of diverse perspectives. Everyone has a unique story that when supported, delivers different perspectives, challenges the norm, and drives better outcomes. I am extremely proud of our female leaders within the cargo business, who continue to drive the business forward.”