International Women's Day acknowledges the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women everywhere. These are the stories of three women who are challenging the status quo, through driving change and equality.
Creative Director
Renata Bernard is Creative Director of the premier Australian opal jewellery house, Opal Minded. A migrant and ex-academic, now also a gemmologist (GIA) and valuer (NCJV), Renata designs stunning jewellery around opals with certified origins. Many are from Opal Minded’s own mines in Queensland. Visit the Opal Minded boutique in The Rocks or shop online at www.opalminded.com.
Can you please tell us a little bit about your experience with Peter Sheppard Footwear and how long you’ve been involved with the business?
Since I bought my first Peter Sheppard shoes a few years back, it has become our go-to shoe store for the three generations of women in our family. I love the quality of service and in-store attention. One of my favourite pairs is a hot pink suede stiletto - the most comfortable heels I own.
What is your fondest memory of Peter Sheppard to date?
Any time I get wonderfully motherly advice by a mature Peter Sheppard Sales Executive. It is no-nonsense, heart-felt counsel on beautiful, quality footwear for a woman on the go.
Through 2020 everyone was thrown their fair share of obstacles. How did you navigate your way through and what positive mantras helped you along the way?
In 2020 our successful bespoke Australian opal jewellery business, Opal Minded, lost almost all foot-traffic from our international visitor clientele. I could have chosen to wait it through, but instead decided to make Opal Minded a better business. My mantra for that time was, “keep your eyes on the horizon; accept the lesson and be grateful for the good it brings.”
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #ChooseToChallenge. What does this theme mean to you?
To me #ChooseToChallenge is about empowerment. Support it, speak it, yet better BE it. Regardless of your moment in life, where and how you are, you owe it to you to be yourself and to do and be what you love.
If you could provide a piece of advice for someone looking to follow in your footsteps, what would it be?
I left Eastern Europe in 1994 and arrived in Australia with $100 dollars in my wallet. So, believe me, whether your dream is to start your own business, or you’re in your 40’s and want a career change, or you aspire to succeed in a new field – you can do it. Look for people who inspire you and reach out to them. Learn from the best. Never doubt your resolve and never let an opportunity slip through your fingers. Whatever you want to achieve, you can, and you will.
International Women's Day acknowledges the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women everywhere. These are the stories of three women who are challenging the status quo, through driving change and equality.
Munro is the leading women's size and width footwear company in the U.S., and we are proud to have had an exclusive Australian partnership with Munro for 25 years. Just like Peter Sheppard Footwear, the business is family-owned, sharing values similar to our own with a focus on quality footwear for every woman.
Hands up if you have ever fallen victim to pain from shoes that don’t fit properly? Your feet may have formed blisters or bunions from wearing ill-fitting footwear, or worse - Long-term injury.
From Governor General to adoring grandmother, Dame Quentin Bryce shares with us her pearls of wisdom for Australian women.
With almost 100 years of expertise under their belt, Paul Green know a thing or two when it comes to crafting footwear. They're the sneaker connoisseur of Europe, experts in sustainable footwear and a brand we know, love and trust. Over the years, we have discovered our customers love Paul Green particularly for their sneaker range, comprising of styles made from many assorted colours, various leathers, and comfortable soles. These are our favourites this season.
On Wednesday 21 August, the team from Peter Sheppard's Head Office volunteered at Sacred Heart Mission and served lunch to more than 200 people. The Dining Hall shift forms part of Peter Sheppard's $150,000 pledge to Sacred Heart Mission over three years.