International Women's Day 2022: A spotlight on our co-founder Lin

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year, we want to celebrate our female owned company, Brava Lingerie, as well as shine a spotlight on our co-founder, Lin Windram. 

We decided to ask Lin a few questions about her career and who inspires her. 

What is your proudest career achievement so far? 

Being recognised for my attitude and commitment when I started as a receptionist in a previous role and rose to General Manager.

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given? 

‘Shoulders back, head high’ by a very senior male colleague who recognised my confidence wasn’t matching my ability.

Who inspires you? 

People who listen to others and show respect for a range of views.

If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?  

1.    Shannon Martinez,  chef and owner of Smith & Daughters in Melbourne's Fitzroy. As a longterm committed vegetarian I would like her to cook for us and share the dinner and her personal story. In 2020, after COVID-19 restrictions shut her restaurant, she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. She continued to cook and create, even though chemotherapy has zapped her energy and taste receptors. She has released Vegan with Bite, a comic book series and another recipe book, this time written for chemotherapy patients and the people who cook for them. 

2.    Michelle Obama, wife of the former president of the United States. Her books leave me with wonder about how two very different personalities get along, stay together and seem to love each other’s company.

3.    Cathy Freeman for her 2000 Olympic Games victory lap in the 400 metre sprint where she carried both the Australian and Aboriginal flags, a symbol of reconciliation and pride in her Aboriginal cultural heritage. When planning to trek Kokoda a few years ago I trained at Sandringham where Cathy had trained and was motivated to raise funds for the Cathy Freeman Foundation for education programs that are designed for child's education from Pre-Prep through to Year 12.  Cathy was a great motivator for me and I am very proud to have completed that trek.