04 March 2020
Celebrating leading women on IWD 2020 - Dr Christina Jovanovic
In the lead up to International Women's Day (IWD) on Sunday 8 March, we're profiling leading ADAVB and eviDent women. We spoke with CPD Committee member, Dr Christina Jovanovic.
The IWD theme is #Eachforequal and it’s about each one of us helping creating a gender equal world. How do you do this and how can others?
I try to display inclusivity in everything I do, without bias to gender. Our individual actions, conversations, behaviours and mindsets have an impact on our wider society. Collectively, we can make change through understanding and respect, to build a gender equal world.
Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you.
Many women throughout my life have played a huge role in shaping me, my thoughts, goals, experiences and education. My mother has remarkable strength and determination and has always encouraged me to reach high and achieve what I put my mind to. The many mentors and friends in the dental field, including the ADA, and beyond have also been inspiring and supportive.
How has the dentistry workforce changed since you studied and throughout your career?
The workforce has changed in many ways since I studied, particularly in leadership and gender equality. It has been wonderful to see two female ADAVB presidents, Dr Gitika Sanghvi and Dr Susan Wise, since graduating in 2014 and an increase in women in leadership in many other areas!
Describe some of the highlights of your role on ADAVB committees and other leadership roles.
I have served on the Recent Graduates and Students Committee (2013 - 2018) and the Continuing Professional Development Committee (2016 - present). Some highlights include being at the forefront of students transitioning to recent graduates and assisting with a range of seminars, mentorship and social events. More recently, the CPD Committee has encouraged me to be a part of and contribute to the emergence of a dynamic array of seminars, lectures and hands-on workshops, as well as ADAVB Conventions.
In 2019, I was selected for the ADAVB Health Sector Leadership Program, delivered by Leadership Victoria. I met a lot of other keen, like-minded allied health professionals and the program offered a variety of unique self-management, team management and communication techniques.
What do you say to women considering taking the step into leadership?
Do so with confidence and resilience! Every person, regardless of background, gender or experience has something to offer and I think any leadership roles, whether it be in the ADA or otherwise, would benefit from a diverse array of members. There is lots of support and guidance along the way, so go for it and be brave!
**Competition**
Thinking about taking the next step? Enter our Facebook competition to attend the Brilliant Women Global event at Kooyong Tennis Club with ADAVB President Dr Gitika Sanghvi on IWD - Sunday 8 March, 11.30am. We now have FOUR tickets to give away! Be inspired by others' journeys and talk all things women and leadership with your ADAVB President. Entry is open to current ADAVB dentistry student members, including ADC candidates, and graduate members (up to ten years). Terms and conditions apply.
Further information about career development and leadership
ADAVB Groups - attend your local network meeting
Health Sector Leadership Program - applications open soon
