Olivia Wirth

Qantas executive

As the face of Qantas during one of the airline industry’s most turbulent periods, airline executive Olivia Wirth is used to embracing challenges.

When she reflects on her success, Olivia says she is grateful that she was always surrounded by strong women who gave her something to aspire to. Now that she is in a position to guide young women, she urges them not to be shy about their achievements.

“Women shouldn’t ever be ashamed to put themselves forward and to celebrate their success,” Olivia says. “It’s okay to succeed.

“Focus on your strong points, work on your weak points and do not get caught up in gender biases because they will exist in the workforce and we’ve got to work through them.”