This year’s UN International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, ‘Give to Gain’, highlights how support, generosity and collaboration create an environment for women to thrive across communities, industries, and workplaces.  

Across GrainCorp’s operations, laboratories, sites and corporate teams, women are bringing this theme to life – giving their time, expertise and leadership to uplift others and open doors for future talent.  

Three inspiring GrainCorp leaders – General Manager Procurement, Kathy Kaderavek, Research & Development Technician, Ariadne Gascon Hernandez, and Site Manager, Nicola Smith – share how giving support and sharing knowledge has shaped their careers, and what can be gained in return. 

Kathy Kaderavek: Leading with authenticity  

Joining GrainCorp in 2024 as General Manager Procurement, Kathy Kaderavek brings more than 25 years’ experience in supply chain, procurement and business transformation.  

Throughout her career, Kathy has benefited from mentors who challenged her thinking and helped her navigate complex environments.  

One of the most defining lessons she learnt early on was the importance of creating opportunities for herself – not waiting for a formal process or someone else to initiate it. 

“You have to recognise your own abilities and advocate for yourself,” Kathy says.  
“Understanding what you bring to the business gives you the confidence to step forward.” 

Kathy Kaderavek and colleagues at GrainCorp’s Gladstone port in QLD

Stepping into transformation roles throughout her career, Kathy has experienced moments of self-doubt and knows the value of having supportive people around her.  

“You need people who remind you of your strengths. Focus on what you’re doing well, not what you aren’t. Be kind to yourself.” 

Having once felt the pressure to “fit in” as the only woman on a leadership team, Kathy now sees diversity as a strength. 

“I eventually realised I didn’t need to blend in – I needed to be myself. Being authentic and backing myself gave me confidence and strengthened my leadership.” 

A strong focus for Kathy is tackling unconscious bias and creating a space for others to step forward.  

“Unconscious bias means we often gravitate towards people who remind us of ourselves. Being aware of that – and questioning our assumptions – is critical. You are in control of your awareness.” 

Kathy believes Give to Gain is a two-way exchange: giving guidance, encouragement and honest conversations while also being open to learning, reflecting and growing.  

“Sometimes the most powerful support you can give is asking questions that help people realise they already have the answer.” 

Kathy Kaderavek

Ari Hernandez: Giving knowledge to gain confidence 

Originally from Mexico City, Ariadne ‘Ari’ Gascon Hernandez moved to Australia to pursue a Masters in Food Science and Agribusiness at Monash University before joining GrainCorp as an intern.  

Now an R&D Technician at GrainCorp’s processing facility in West Footscray, Victoria, she supports analysis on a feed additive designed to reduce methane emissions in livestock.  

Ariadne Gascon Hernandez at work in GrainCorp’s laboratory in West Footscray, VIC

For Ari, science has always been a space for curiosity and discovery. 

“R&D doesn’t always go to plan, but there’s always something new to learn about the work and about yourself,” she says. 

“For example, at GrainCorp I’ve learnt how to problem-solve, stay resilient and back my own technical abilities. 

 “That real-world exposure has been invaluable,” she adds. 

While at university, Ari mentored biotechnology students navigating their entry into the industry – determined to help them ease the uncertainty she once experienced.  

“Representation opens doors, and being visible in my role shows other women and international students what’s possible.” 

Through STEM networks and peer connections, Ari says she has gained not only professional growth but belonging.  

“Give to Gain is about community, and for me, connecting with other women in STEM has shaped my confidence and made the industry feel less intimidating. 

“Those networks give reassurance, motivation and a sense of belonging – especially when starting out in a new place.” 

Ariadne Gascon Hernandez

Nicola Smith: Giving opportunity to build stronger teams 

As Site Manager at Ardlethan, NSW – one of the largest GrainCorp sites – Nicola Smith is helping reshape perceptions of leadership in what are traditionally male-dominated roles. Her visibility in the role is creating opportunities for others to step forward. 

Yet Nicola admits she initially turned the position down – twice.  

“My manager believed in me before I did. That support gave me the confidence to back myself, learn and make mistakes. Now, I can pay that forward.” 

Nicola Smith on site at GrainCorp Ardlethan, NSW

Nicola has brought a fresh approach to managing a site, demonstrating that effective leadership doesn’t always require being the loudest voice in the room.  

She notes there are now more young women Site Managers across the GrainCorp network and has drawn strength from connecting with them in her role. 

Today, Nicola is striving to create a workplace where people feel valued and are not afraid to ask for help.  

“Guiding young harvest workers in this way is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” she says. 

“I love giving them responsibility, supporting them through challenges, and seeing them grow.” 

“When you advocate for someone’s potential, you build their confidence – and gain your own. It lifts everyone.” 

Nicola smith

Building the future together 

Despite their different backgrounds and roles, Kathy, Ari and Nicola share the same experience: when women give support and opportunity to others, it creates stronger and more inclusive teams and workplaces. 

To learn more about GrainCorp’s Inclusion and Diversity Action Plan, visit https://www.graincorp.com.au/our-culture/.