by Lucy Hemsley @CheltTeacher  #BirthdayCelebration

I do not over-exaggerate when I say reading 10%Braver changed my life: it dramatically changed how I view myself and my career. I wrote about the book when I first read it. But the book was just the beginning of my relationship with #WomenEd.

This is what #WomenEd has done for me.

• You have enabled me to be more comfortable in my own skin, to be happy knowing that I can be ambitious as a leader as well as a mother to young children by showing me others who are doing it, and are doing it well. Thank you.

• You have introduced me to so many women leaders and #HeForShe advocates across the globe: in the book; in person at your Sheffield unconference; in Twittersphere; in my region @WomenEdSW. This community has served as role models, as shoulders to cry on, as friends. Thank you.

• You told me that flexible leadership is possible (particular thanks to @HelenaMarsh81 and @MorseCat for their chapter in the book on this). This empowered me to request going part-time – which was accepted! Thank you.

• You inspire and empower me to be 10% braver: in applying and being appointed in my dream job as Assistant Headteacher (T&L and CPD); in taking part in the @WomenEdSW virtual #LeadMeet; in starting up my blog. Thank you.

• You have encouraged me to ‘find my tribe’ and connect with others with similar experiences, such as the MTPT Project and Women Leading in Education. The coaching I have received through both organisations has been transformative. Thank you. 

• You have made me aware of the significant and persistent inequalities that exist in education, why #WomenEd needs to exist and how I can contribute in small, significant ways. Thank you.

So, a very happy 5th Birthday #WomenEd! Thank you for everything you have done for me, and for women around the world.