Give to Gain: Reflections from Programmed’s Leaders
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Give to Gain’, challenges each of us to think about what we can actively contribute to create more inclusive, equitable workplaces and communities. When we give intentionally, may it be time, advocacy, knowledge, trust or opportunity, we help others rise. And in doing so, we strengthen our teams, our culture and our collective future.
At Programmed, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported to do their best work is fundamental to who we are. Living the theme of Give to Gain means investing in people, encouraging diverse leadership, and creating environments where opportunity is shared.
To bring this year’s theme to life, we invited leaders across our business to share reflections from their leadership journeys – the lessons they’ve learned, the barriers they’ve navigated, and what “giving” in leadership means to them.
Here’s what some of them shared.
“The International Women’s Day theme Give to Gain resonates with me because I’ve lived it. When we give generously, we don’t lose anything. We build stronger people, stronger teams and a stronger culture.”
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“Over the years, I’ve learned a great deal about leadership, and one truth stands out – you don’t have to be the smartest or the loudest person in the room to lead well – in fact, it can help if you’re not. You don’t need to be dominant or confrontational to achieve outcomes, and strength doesn’t have to come with volume.
There are many ways to lead, but integrity and authenticity are qualities shared by the very best leaders.”
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Samantha Cowan, Grp Self Insurance Manager SA
“One action I’m giving in 2026 to help others gain is committing to creating more space for honest conversations – moments where people feel heard, supported, and genuinely empowered to grow.”
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“One action I’m giving in 2026 is being more intentional about creating space to share the experiences of women in leadership. I’m surrounded by incredible female leaders with powerful stories, stories of doubt, resilience, growth, and bold decisions.
I want to bring those stories forward. Because when people hear someone speak honestly about their journey, it makes the leap feel possible.”
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“Giving in leadership, to me, is about building others up, recognising strengths and investing time so people can grow. I feel most proud when a team is happy, functioning well and excited about what we’re trying to achieve together.
The IWD “Give to Gain” theme lands for me because when we give time, trust and support to others, everyone benefits. Strong teams are built when people feel seen and supported.”
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“Establishing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where individuals are nurtured, mentored, supported, and championed is critical. Our female trailblazers play a vital role in normalising these opportunities and paving the way for future generations so our employee cohort can better reflect the community in which we serve.”
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“To me, giving in leadership starts with trust. I genuinely believe that no one wakes up intending to do a bad job sometimes people simply need clarity, support, or confidence. I trust my team, create safe spaces to learn, advocate for them, and give opportunities to grow. I have grown within Programmed Facility Management, and I want my team to experience that same sense of development and belief.
One action I’m giving in 2026 to help others gain is sharing my knowledge and creating more opportunities for people to step up.”
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“Giving in leadership means creating opportunities – advocating for others, recognising effort, and making appreciation visible through small but meaningful actions. A genuine thank you, a smile, or acknowledgment of contribution can have a powerful impact. These moments build confidence and connection within teams.”
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“Give to Gain is not just about what others gain from us ‘giving’ as leaders, it is what WE also ‘gain’ by ‘giving’ to others. So get out there and GIVE a little to someone today.”
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Give To Gain reminds us that equality and opportunity don’t happen by accident – they’re shaped by everyday actions. When we give through leadership, mentorship, advocacy, and support, we create momentum that benefits everyone.
