There is something profoundly transformative about a room full of women celebrating women. That spirit was unmistakable at Lean In Inc.’s International Women’s Day 2026 event, where women-leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers-gathered to honour resilience, equity, and the power of shared stories.
More than a celebratory occasion, the event emerged as a dynamic forum for reflection, inspiration, and action. Through candid conversations and deeply personal narratives, the speakers reminded attendees that leadership is not a singular path, but a collective journey shaped by culture, courage, and community impact. All guest speakers brought distinct perspectives, united by purpose.
Sumeet Saigal, contestant on MasterChef Australia 2024 season and widely known as the ‘Sauce Boss,’ demonstrated how entrepreneurial success can be rooted in cultural identity, blending sharp business acumen with a deep respect for heritage and community.
Indu Balachandran, Councillor at Ku-ring-gai Council and a seasoned strategist, spoke compellingly about leading with both intellect and empathy-showing how ‘head and heart’ leadership can drive meaningful, systemic change.
Shivani Gopal, founder of ELLADEX, challenged traditional power structures and offered a bold vision for financial equity, redefining how women can access, build, and sustain economic power.
Complementing this perspective, Dr Kiran Jassal, a founding member of Lean In Inc and respected medical professional, shared her personal story and highlighted the urgent need for inclusive healthcare, underscoring how equity in health remains fundamental to broader social progress.
Beyond the stage, the event’s success was made possible through strong individual, community and corporate support. The organisers extended heartfelt thanks to the event sponsors, whose generous donations of gifts and unique experiences were used as raffle prizes throughout the day. These raffles helped raise valuable funds that will directly support future Lean In Inc. events, leadership workshops, and development initiatives.
The host restaurant, Curry Lovers Epping, was also acknowledged for their outstanding hospitality, providing a welcoming space that encouraged dialogue, connection, and celebration.
Together, the speakers and supporters created a tapestry of rich and lived experience-raw, honest, and stimulating.
The audience, responded with thoughtful engagement and a shared commitment to carry the conversation beyond the room.
As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: the work of equity does not end with a single event or a single day. It is sustained through daily action, allyship, and the courage to lead differently.
Aligning beautifully with the IWD 2026 themes of “Give To Gain”, the evening focused on reciprocity and collective support, encouraging individuals to invest time, resources, and opportunities that help women thrive.
Lean In Inc.’s International Women’s Day 2026 event was not just a celebration; it was a call to action. A reminder that when women support women, communities thrive, systems shift, and the future becomes more equitable for all.
About Lean In Inc
Lean In Inc is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation established in 2017 and run entirely by volunteers, focused on empowering people from migrant communities through connection, support, and opportunity.
To learn more about Lean In Inc, attend future events, or get involved as a participant, partner, or volunteer, visit the website and follow the organisation on social media:
- Website: https://leanin.com.au
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeanIninc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leanin-inc
Join the Lean In Inc community and be part of a growing network committed to connection, empowerment, and collective progress.
