Woman of the Month: Tracey Taylor

1. Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I'm Mum to a gorgeous 5-year-old boy named Sebbie. I love to see things through his eyes and watch him discover the world. Having worked in the UK, Asia, US and Australia, I adore travelling and can’t wait to jump on a plane again! You’ll catch me on the first flight out to Fiji which is my favourite place as was the last holiday I had with my Mum who now resides with the Angels. My passion for people runs deep, people are my main source of pure joy. Summer is when I truly come alive and it looks like we’re in for a long, hot one this year. 

2. What does Dignity mean to you?

Dignity is love, self- love, love for others it is a basic, yet powerful human right that is deserved by everyone. It effects how you carry yourself, your self-worth, and how you treat others.

3. What was your experience with your period?

My experience was quite different to now. There was much less information, and it wasn’t really spoken about, so it was a bit daunting for me as a young girl, and I found it all a bit awkward and annoying. Now there’s so much knowledge around, more open conversation, and everything is so much more accessible. 

4. What is the best thing for you about being a woman and menstruation?

Women’s bodies are just amazing, the things they do! Our bodies tell us when they’re not happy, and periods can be reassuring signal that your body is operating as it should. Staying healthy is really important to me and listening to your body is a big part of that. 

5. What makes you feel empowered/comfortable in your skin?

The confidence I see in the people around me, the wahine in my work whanau and my sisters outside of work. They give me strength, spark joy and light up the path I’m on.

As you grow, you spend less time worrying about what other people think and give more energy to the positive things around you. 

6. What would you like to say to anyone getting their first period?  

Lean on the people around you, your sisters, your whanau. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and know you’re joining the ranks of womanhood, a truly powerful force!