At Kinetic IT, we know that progress doesn’t happen by standing still. Equity is built through action—in the way we lead, the opportunities we create, and the support we give to others.
This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, ‘March Forward,’ reminds us that progress isn’t just about where we’re going but about moving together, lifting each other up, and refusing to stand still in the face of inequality.
As part of our IWD initiatives, we ask our Kinetic IT team to nominate their peers who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to advancing gender equity and inclusion.
Out of almost 100 nominations, we proudly recognise three individuals who exemplify what it means to push forward, break down barriers, and create space for others.
Honouring our IWD 2025 award winners
Melissa Brown – IWD Award
Melissa Brown is a driving force for inclusion and leadership development at Kinetic IT. As a senior leader in the Department of Education (DoE) Operations Tower, Melissa is known for her ability to challenge thinking and guide those around her toward growth and success.
Beyond her role, she actively champions gender equity through grassroots initiatives:
- Driving Kinetic IT’s Gender Action Plan, ensuring meaningful action in gender equity
- Creating local DEI programs, from social yoga groups to Indigenous trainee support
- Establishing pathways for future female leaders in technical and management roles
Melissa’s leadership isn’t just about personal progress—it’s about helping others.
"Thank you all for this incredible honour. I am deeply humbled to receive the International Women’s Day Award, nominated by my peers. This recognition is not only for me but for all the strong, inspiring women who continue to break barriers and create change. I share this moment with my team—together, we rise, we support each other, and we shape a better future. It certainly makes the nights I lay awake wondering, 'how can we be better', worth it!"
Sarah Baalmann – Emerging Leader Award
Sarah Baalmann has built a movement of connection and inclusion.
As the founder of SWARM (Showcasing Women & Allies at Realising Momentum), she brings people together across teams, sites, and service lines. By creating safe, inclusive spaces for women to rise and lead, Sarah is continually helping women and allies to network, share experiences, and access opportunities for career growth.
"I am honoured and humbled to receive this award! When we formed SWARM (Showcasing Women & Allies at Realising Momentum) to connect women across Kinetic IT, I had no idea how fast it would grow and the wider reach it would have. I'm grateful to our committee and amazing presenters, and a heartfelt thanks to all the women and allies who have inspired and supported me. Looking forward to seeing more women rise up!"
Women @ KIT Lunch & Learn Series – Inclusion in Action Award
The Women @ KIT Lunch & Learn Series is a powerful example of how grassroots efforts can drive real change. Born out of SWARM’s mission, these masterclasses have become a cornerstone of career development at Kinetic IT. They’ve been instrumental in:
- Providing valuable learning opportunities across all levels of the business
- Fostering cross-team collaboration, bringing together people from different accounts and service lines
- Creating a platform for women to share insights and lead discussions
Wayne Woodman – IWD Allyship Award
Wayne Woodman embodies active allyship—the kind that creates space, amplifies voices, and drives inclusion.
Not only does Wayne provide personal one-on-one mentorship to build confidence in others, but he models what inclusive leadership should look like by getting involved with organisations like Women4STEM.
"I steadfastly believe in Allyship and the positive difference allies can make. We can share the burden, amplify unheard voices, challenge systemic biases and model inclusive behaviours. To me, supporting DEI is not enough – we must take tangible action and do DEI – and allies can and should do this. I sincerely hope that together, through taking positive action, we can all contribute to more inclusive and equitable workplaces, communities and societies in the year ahead."
Why we keep marching forward
The release of Australia’s 2023-2024 employer gender pay gap report was a stark reminder of why this work matters.
For us the results aren’t discouraging, but simply a reason to push even harder. The latest data reinforces why we must continue to challenge inequities, advocate for systemic change, and hold ourselves accountable. Because equity isn’t a milestone—it’s a journey of continuous effort and continuous improvement.
From ensuring women fill at least 50% of all open leadership roles, to expanding parental leave and flexible work policies, and embedding allyship training for all executives, every step forward is about creating a workplace where no one get’s left behind.
This change isn’t just happening at the organisational level, but on the ground through through leaders like Melissa, Sarah, Wayne and all our 2025 nominees who are marching Kinetic IT forward—and lifting others up.
Congratulations to everyone and we look forward to what we accomplish together this year.
For information about career opportunities for women at Kinetic IT, or to find out more about our Gender Action Plan, please contact: careers@kineticit.com.au
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