Commander Sandra Walker spoke to St Joseph's Stratford students about leadership and following your dreams, as well as talking about life in the military generally.
Grace Campbell (12) says she enjoyed listening to Commander Walker, who was the first female commander in the New Zealand Navy, talk about succeeding in what has often been perceived to be a male dominated career. "She talked to us about how you shouldn't let anything stop you aiming high and to ignore people who tell you that you won't be able to achieve something."
Sahra Peterson-Semenoff (12) says she thought it was interesting that the Naval officer had been scared of water when she was growing up, "and she said she still hates swimming now". Facing your fear and doing it anyway was an inspiring message, adds Sahra, and Hannah Bisley (13) agrees. "She talked abut gender equality and standing up for yourself, as well as challenging yourself to try things even if you think it will be hard or difficult."
Ruby Hosking (13) says Commander Walker told them that you don't have to know what you want to be from a young age, "but rather you can explore different ideas and think about your strengths and interests as you go through school".
All four girls say they enjoyed the talk and felt inspired by Commander Walker.