IWD 2023 with Jacqui Toumbas

To honour and celebrate International Women’s Day this year, we invited five inspirational local women to share what womanhood means to them. This is Jacqui's story.

Tell us a bit about you. What are you currently focused on, what does your day to day look like? 

 I am a Brisbane based nutritionist, cook and hospitality consultant. My world revolves around food, and I love it. This year I've decided to move more into the space of content creation which gives me room to be creative and build a community that I can share my passion with. No day is really the same, but I like to start off by taking my puppy, Basil, for a walk, getting in some time to be still before starting my day at my desk at home or in the kitchen testing new recipes. 

What is a life motto that you live by? 

Everything happens for a reason.

How would you describe the modern woman? 

For me, the modern woman is independent, but not opposed to collaboration and working with others. She is comfortable in her own skin, confident to speak the truth, sets a good example for others, knows herself and is constantly learning to become the best version of who she is. To me, she is can appreciate both men and women, she is kind and generous and most of all does everything in love.

What does being a woman mean to you? 

It means I can embody what I believe a woman is, and be myself. Follow my goals and aspirations and nurture everyone around me. 

Is there a book that really stood out to you over the years that you would recommend to other women?

Coming from a health and nutrition background, I have recently read the 'Glucose Revolution'. I had many WOW moments and what I love most about it is you're given real, tangible steps to take to better yourself and your health. 

Can you recount a time you felt empowered by another woman, who they were, what the event entailed? 

This one is easy for me, I constantly feel empowered by the women in my family, from my mum, sister, cousins, aunties and especially my grandmothers. They've all faced challenges in life and watching them overcome them has really empowered me.

What are you most looking forward to in 2023 and what’s next for you!

Travel!!!! I sold my first business in 2020 and the dream was to spend a month in Italy discovering the culture and food. I finally took the plunge this year and booked! I literally cried when I booked my ticket. I am so excited.

You can keep up with Jacqui at @jacquitoumbas