International Women's Day 2021 - Esther Kim

In 1991 my parents made the tough decision to immigrate to New Zealand (NZ) from Korea in an attempt to provide a better environment for my brother and me. After seven years in NZ, my parents made a big decision once more and moved our family to Brisbane, Australia, where we have lived for over 20 years.

I have always been proud and thankful for my parents for making these tough decisions and for the lessons that came with them. I remember how my parents went from so-called “white-collar” workers to foreigners that were trying to navigate the local workforce in countries they weren’t familiar with. I remember my parents working to break the barriers with their hard work and determination, to give my brother and me a better life, and that has greatly shaped who I am today.

The lessons my parents have taught me have carried over into my career. I started working as a 21-year-old in a male-dominated environment, where I didn’t just encounter gender bias but also racial bias, even once being referred to as the “Little Asian Girl”.  So, my instinct was deciding to wear stiletto heels all day to make myself taller, so I wouldn’t be singled out for my height or for how I looked.

Early in my career, a male boss provided me with what he thought was helpful advice. He said that, as a female, I would need to work twice as much and twice as hard to make my way up the corporate ladder.  After this conversation, it became evident that while doors were opening for women, we were having to work twice as hard for that recognition.

Both experiences have helped my development at MODE and in my role as a female leader. Four years ago, I joined MODE (when my son was only nine months old) as a Group Finance Manager and have worked my way up to being promoted to Director in 2020. This accomplishment was a momentous occasion for me and showed my hard work was acknowledged. Even though I was not an architect or designer, I was valued and respected.

Esther (right) with MODE team members at the RACQ International Women’s Day Fun Run in 2020

 As a parent, I want to instill the same values in my son as he grows and learns. I have raised him to remember and celebrate his family heritage and to appreciate and respect women. I know he will work hard to accomplish his goals and also recognise all people based on their merits, not their gender.

 While women are well represented in the design and construction industry overall, there are fewer at the senior level.

So, I #ChoosetoChallenge the industry to bring more women into senior-level positions and help promote and celebrate the positive visibility of female leaders.

 Women can progress through their own hard work, ability, and ambition but it’s not always a walk in the park.

So, I #ChoosetoChallenge girls to be ambitious, don’t take no for an answer and speak up, share your voice.

ESTHER KIM, Director