International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th to commemorate the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. This year we interviewed Stephanie Cassimatis, our lead PMP Certified Project Manager for Simply 360, to learn more about International Women’s Day and her experience working on projects. She is a multi-talented individual who has managed many large scale projects in the virtual tour industry and has years of experience as a multi-site facilities manager and corporate events producer.

International Women’s Day Interview – Stephanie Cassimatis

Name: Stephanie Cassimatis
Role: Lead PMP Certified Project Manager

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th to commemorate the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. This year we interviewed Stephanie Cassimatis, our lead PMP certified project manager for Simply 360, to learn more about International Women’s Day and her experience working on projects. She is a multi-talented individual who has managed multiple large scale projects in the virtual tour industry and has years of experience as a multi-site facilities manager and corporate events producer.

What do you do at Simply 360?

I am the lead PMP Certified Project Manager for Simply 360. I help manage and oversee complex virtual tour projects. I have experience working with virtual tours, facilities management, and corporate event management. I am the one in the back planning routes, staffing and logistical movements, and liaising with clients on project schedules.

What inspired you to start working in project management?

I have been involved in project management for over 12 years. I started within the travel industry as a travel coordinator and progressed to a construction lead before becoming an event producer and then a project manager. I enjoy working with teams and managing projects from start to finish. Working in tourism, events, construction and facilities, I can tell you that there are never two days the same, and I love it!

What do you think are the benefits of working in project management?

The benefits of working in project management include successfully managing and overseeing complex projects from start to finish. Additionally, being a project manager allows you to work with different teams and an array of clients from various industries. Finally, planning and forward-thinking always has you thinking and, at times, coming up with creative solutions for projects.

What was the most challenging project you’ve ever worked on here and in your career?

The most challenging project at Simply 360 would have to be the TAFE NSW multi-site virtual tour project. This project initially spanned ten campuses and 18 facilities in a tight time frame but expanded beyond the original scope. I was coordinating photographers, drone pilots and admin whilst dealing with weather conditions, student/campus schedules and travelling long distances. It was a huge undertaking and required a lot of dedication and hard work from everyone on the team. However, it was also a great learning experience, and I learned a lot about myself and my abilities.

The most challenging project in my career is the coordination of a multimillion-dollar commercial fit-out in a previous role. This project involved many planning meetings and onsite inductions where I had to coordinate trades, tenants, security and other contractors as well as access into a premium grade building whilst sharing the space with working businesses. The end result was a fully refurbished office fit-out in the heart of the Sydney CBD, which went on to win various awards and is still standing today.

What is your experience with International Women’s Day?

International Women’s Day is a day that I’ve been celebrating for a few years now. It’s a day to commemorate the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. I think it’s important to celebrate women’s accomplishments and contributions, especially given the current political climate. Furthermore, I believe it is important to support and celebrate women regardless of nationality or ethnicity.

What do you think are the most important aspects of celebrating International Women’s Day?

It is a day to celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness of the challenges still faced by women worldwide. International Women’s Day brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate women’s power and commit to working together to ensure that all women have the opportunities and rights they need to reach their full potential. It is essential to acknowledge the progress that has been made. This day is also an opportunity to promote gender equality in all areas of life and promote the empowerment of women.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias; what does this mean to you?

I think it’s important to break the stereotype that women are only good at certain things. I believe it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the talents and abilities of all women, no matter what they do. I think it’s essential to teach young girls that they can do anything they want and don’t have to limit themselves because of their gender.

What do you think are the benefits of celebrating International Women’s Day?

I think the benefits of celebrating International Women’s Day are manifold. First and foremost, it’s an opportunity to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women from all over the world. And lastly, it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about the issues facing women today.

What barriers have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

The most significant barrier I’ve faced in my career is the stereotype that women are only good at certain things. As a result, I’ve had to work hard to prove that I can do just as much, if not more, than any man in my field. Nevertheless, I have felt a sense of satisfaction each time I accomplish my goals and hope to inspire other women in doing what I do. I think breaking the stereotype is crucial because it allows more women to achieve their dreams.

What advice would you have for young girls who want to follow in your footsteps?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best advice for young girls who want to follow in my footsteps will vary depending on their individual circumstances and goals. However, some general advice that could be useful for girls of all ages is to stay true to themselves, focus on their passions, and never give up on their dreams. Additionally, it can be helpful to network with other women in your field, attend events and workshops related to your interests, and stay positive and optimistic no matter the situation.

What advice would you give to women about their careers?

There are many different pieces of advice that I would give to women about their careers. Some of it might be specific to me, while other advice might be more general. But in general, I think it’s important for women to know what they want from their careers and figure out what will work best for them. And finally, I think it’s important to be persistent and never give up on your dreams.

Can you tell us about a role model who has inspired you over your career?

There are a lot of role models that have inspired me throughout my career. But one particular role model is Beyonce Carter Knowles. She is an intelligent, talented and strong woman. She showed me that it’s possible to achieve anything you set your mind to. She manages a successful career and family. You really can run the world!

What progress have you seen on gender equality in your life and work?

As I have worked in a variety of industries, I am optimistic. I have seen improvements, but I still believe there is still a lot of work to break down the barriers that have prevented women from achieving their full potential.

We have made great strides in advancing women in politics, business, and other fields, and I believe that we will continue to make progress in the future.

What’s your International Women’s Day message?

International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate women’s achievements and bring attention to the work still needed to achieve gender equality. There is still a long way to go. I believe in the importance of education and the need for more women in leadership positions, and the importance of working together to achieve equality.

If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

I would have dinner with Beyonce, The Queen and Jacinda Ardern because they are all-powerful women who have inspired me throughout my career and personal life. Beyonce has shown me to never give up on my dreams, not to be shy to try new things and that I can achieve greatness. The Queen has been inspirational in the face of adversity, showing courage and strength and Jacinda Ardern for her leadership and empathy whilst juggling a country, a pandemic and family life.

Did you or your company do anything to celebrate International Women’s Day? Who do you consider an inspiration, and what would you ask them? Join the discussion down below, let us know your thoughts and leave a comment :)

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