This year's International Women's Day theme, "Give to Gain," is a reminder that when we share what we know, we all move forward together. Mentoring others, lifting people up, and passing on the advice that shaped us creates a ripple effect.
To mark the occasion, three Amazon Australia leaders are sharing the career advice that transformed their paths.
Back yourself
Jacqui, Country Manager for Amazon Devices ANZ, received a piece of advice early in her career that she still returns to today.
"My favourite piece of career advice is to back yourself," she says. "Every time a challenge comes up, or an opportunity, or a role I don't think I'm quite ready for I back myself in terms of my skills and my attitude, and I stay curious. It's amazing what you can achieve when you back yourself in."
Embrace the non-linear path
For Mariko, Public Policy Manager at Amazon Australia, the most valuable lesson was learning to let go of the idea that a career has to follow a straight line.
"The most interesting careers are not linear," she says. "Take up opportunities, take risks—that's what I've tried to do with my career to date."
You don't have to have all the answers
Aley, Product Manager at Amazon Australia, has found that growth often lives just outside the comfort zone.
"I've learnt that you don't have to be 100% ready for your next role," she says. "Every time I've said yes to a new challenge—even when I didn't have all the answers—I've gained new skills, confidence, and a better perspective. Being open to learning will open so many doors for you."
Together, these three leaders remind us that growth comes from embracing uncertainty, taking risks, and believing in ourselves—even when doubt creeps in. And when we share that wisdom with others, the impact multiplies.
Next up, Amazon supports Victorian bushfire and Queensland flood relief efforts.
