Shelley Brown: Championing Women's Leadership at NSCG

07 March 2025

In this Q&A, we speak to Shelley Brown, Deputy Principal, at NSCG, to share what IWD means to her and how NSCG is inspiring more women to pursue senior leadership roles in their careers.

Be assertive, advocate for yourself and don't hesitate to voice your opinions.

Shelley Brown, Deputy Principal for Young People

What does International Women’s Day mean to you? And why do you feel that it is important to recognise the day?

For me, International Women's Day is a powerful reminder of the incredible strides women have made globally, celebrating our social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It's also a crucial moment to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done, particularly in addressing gender violence and in some sectors pay inequality.

What are some of the actions you’ve seen to progress gender equality in your life and work?

I've been fortunate to witness positive shifts, such as policy changes promoting equal pay and parental leave, and the encouraging increase of women in leadership roles across various sectors. I've also observed a growing awareness in the media and education about breaking down harmful stereotypes, and a stronger push for equal access to education and sports for girls and women. I'm particularly proud to be part of NSCG, which actively cultivates an inclusive and supportive environment for women. The increased accessibility of childcare has also been a significant step forward.

Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?

Personally, I haven't encountered career barriers, and I attribute that largely to the supportive culture at NSCG, which has provided me with numerous opportunities for growth.

How can we encourage more women to pursue senior leadership roles in their career?

To encourage more women in senior leadership, I think mentorship programmes with experienced leaders would be invaluable, alongside leadership development programmes that address the unique challenges women face. Flexible work arrangements are also crucial for balancing work and family life. NSCG's inclusive workplace culture is a model that other sectors could learn from.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership roles?

My advice to young women aspiring to leadership is this: Believe in your abilities, build a strong network, and commit to continuous learning and skill development. Be assertive, advocate for yourself, and don't hesitate to voice your opinions. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and, most importantly, support other women on their journeys to success.