Our story
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"
At IBY, our story started with a community workshop that opened our eyes to the harsh realities of domestic violence in Australia. It became evident that gender stereotypes, ingrained at an early age, play a significant role in shaping career choices, ultimately leading to gender-based inequalities later in life. We knew we had to make a difference.
Driven by a deep passion for empowering young women and breaking gender barriers, Manvinder took on the mission to be a catalyst for change. With an extensive background in the field of technology and a vast network of women and men excelling in STEM-based careers, she felt a calling to empower girls to make informed decisions about their future paths.
Harnessing the power of this network, we swiftly gathered a remarkable group of mentors who shared our vision. Their dedication and willingness to devote their valuable time to IBY, despite their busy schedules, amazed us. What started with just a handful of mentors has now grown exponentially to a community of 30 and counting.
As our journey progressed, we realized that our programs needed to reach beyond gender-specific boundaries. We recognized the importance of supporting students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, ensuring that all genders have access to the opportunities and resources IBY provides. Today, our range of programs has expanded to include eight distinct offerings, covering topics from self-awareness and resilience-building to exploring diverse career pathways. Our commitment to growth and innovation led us to introduce our newest addition, the Work-Based Learning module.
While our journey began by engaging industry mentors to inspire students, we have set our sights on offering practical work experience opportunities. Our vision extends beyond workshops alone, as we aim to provide apprenticeships and foster meaningful connections between students and the professional world.
Every step of this incredible journey has reinforced our belief in the transformative power of mentorship, empowerment, and breaking down barriers. Together, with our passionate mentors and dedicated team, we are determined to shape a future where all students can realize their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Join us as we continue to create pathways, inspire possibilities, and ignite change. Together, we can build a world where everyone is empowered to thrive and make their mark on the world.