Interview with Incoming WHISE Board Member, Sarah Race

WHISE Marketing & Events Officer, Jo French, spoke with Sarah Race about her recent appointment as a WHISE General Board Member.

Q: Who is Sarah Race and why is joining the Board of WHISE important to you? Why did you choose WHISE? 

A: That’s a big question! I’m a journeywoman – someone who has lived life, and learned a lot on my travels – which has led me to be a gender equality advocate. I’m currently a Councillor for the Mornington Peninsula and a proud feminist!   

Joining this Board is important because I can support the incredible work WHISE does, and support the women of the South East. I chose WHISE having seen and been involved with the power of work they do in creating a better world for our womenfolk. 

Q: What skills and expertise do you bring to the Board?  

A: I have been a community advocate since 2014 and have been involved in a number of local committees, which has given me a great understanding of how diverse our communities are. Being a local Councillor has also given me an even greater understanding of the many issues women face – from gendered violence, to homelessness, increasing poverty and a lack of services. I also have a strong grounding in governance and political advocacy. 

Q: What do you hope to see, do, achieve or be a part of as a Board member? What are you excited about? 

A: I’m excited to be working with this phenomenal Board – and hoping to achieve greater gender equity for the women of the South East! 

Q: What book are you currently reading? 

A: Songlines: The Power and Promise, by Margo Neale and Lynne Kelly. (The first in the First Knowledge series, this book offers unique insights into Indigenous traditional knowledges, how they apply today and how they could help all peoples thrive into the future.)

Q: You are hosting a dinner party on Saturday night. Who is coming and what’s on the menu? 

A: I have a running list of my ultimate dinner party… I started it when I lived in the UK. 

Mariella Frostrup and Barbara Ellen (Columnists from The Observer)
Michelle Obama, Jacinda Ardern and Angela Merkel
Ruth and Cathy McGowan
Marcia Langton and Sue-Anne Hunter
Shirley Manson – from Garbage 
Kate Moss 
Tracey Emin 
Sarah Pascoe… and my girlfriends! 
The menu would be cocktails and platters!