International Women's Day: Merivale & Made to Lead

International Women's Day is about celebrating the women who lead from the front; in business, in sport, and in their communities. At Stirling Women, were proud to shine a spotlight on women who are building something meaningful.

This year, we’re celebrating Kate - owner of our Merivale store in Ōtautahi, and the powerful example she sets as a woman in business. 

Opportunity, Responsibility & Backing Yourself

When asked what being a woman in business to her, Kate shared:

“Being a woman in business means embracing both opportunity and responsibility. There are always opportunities within any business to improve, streamline, or change. In order to ensure the smooth running of a business, it’s important to know how to prioritise in order to stay on top of the day-to-day operations. This is an especially useful skill when considering my role includes being a business owner, wife, and mum. Being a business owner has given me the flexibility to care for my family, which is my first priority. For this, I am so grateful!”

There is strength in that balance. Leadership is one dimensional, it's layered. It's strategy and empathy. It is growth and gratitude. Women in business are constantly navigating multiple roles, and Kate’s journey reflects what it means to lead with intention while staying grounded in what matters most. 

Family First, Always

Running a store takes commitment. Running a family takes heart and doing both takes purpose. Here is how Kate approaches lifestyle, wellness, and leading her team:

“My first priority is my family. I delight in being there for the first steps and school runs. We often head out for exercise together as a family, which allows us to enjoy nature and each other’s company! Almost everything else fits into an early morning or the occasional far-too-late night. In saying all of this, I am so thankful to have a wonderful store manager who looks after the store incredibly, which takes such a weight off me!”

It’s a reminder that empowerment doesn't mean doing everything alone. Strong leadership also means building a strong team. Supporting women in business isn't just about celebrating individual success; it is about recognising the communities and teams that make it possible.

Confidence That Runs Deeper Than What You Wear 

What you wear can set the tone for your day, but real confidence runs deeper than activewear. 

Kate’s advice to other women is both practical and powerful:

“I realise that for many women, time is of the essence each morning! To me, it’s important to take five minutes out in the morning to get myself ready and present myself well. While physical appearance is certainly not everything, taking a few moments helps me feel prepared for the day. Presentation is only part of the picture. It’s also important to have strong moral character: kindness, honesty, being respectful, and being grounded in your values. Your appearance will leave a first impression, but how you treat others will leave a lasting impression.”

That’s what empowerment looks like, its preparation, values and its leading with kindness. 

More Than a Store

Our Merivale store isn’t just four walls and product shelves, it’s part of the local community. It’s where women pop in between school drop-offs, weekend sport, coffee catch-ups, and busy workdays. It’s where activewear meets real life.

Under Kate’s ownership, Merivale reflects what Stirling Women is all about: support, strength, and showing up for one another. From leading her team to connecting with customers, she’s created an environment that feels welcoming, genuine, and community-driven.

Stirling Women Merivale isn’t just a store, it’s a space where women are empowered to move confidently through every part of their day. And that’s something worth celebrating. 

Celebrating Women in Business

International Women’s Day is a chance to pause and acknowledge the women who are building brands, raising families, leading teams, and creating opportunities for others. Women like Kate remind us that leadership can be ambitious and family-focused. Strategic and compassionate. Driven and deeply grounded.

From Merivale to every Stirling Women store across Aotearoa, we celebrate the women who show up, step up, and lift others as they climb.

Here’s to women in business. Here’s to strong teams. Here’s to Stirling Women.