IWD 2026 Adorn Cosmetics

Briony Kennedy | Founder of Adorn

What “Balance the Scales” Means in Leadership

For Briony, balancing the scales begins with recognising people for their capability, experience and contribution.

“For me, it means focusing on merit above everything else. In leadership, it’s about ensuring people are valued for their skills and the experience they bring, not their gender, background or stage of life.”

She also believes that those in leadership carry a responsibility to help open doors for others.

“If you’re in a position of influence, you have a responsibility to create opportunity and make the path more accessible for the women coming behind you.”

Progress in the Beauty Industry

While the beauty industry has traditionally focused heavily on trends and youth, Briony sees encouraging shifts taking place.

“Much of the industry is trend driven and youth focused, which can leave mature women feeling overlooked.”

However, she notes that meaningful progress is happening as more women start their own brands and lead businesses with purpose.

“There is a growing shift towards authenticity and purpose-driven leadership, which is encouraging.”

Building a Balanced Workplace

At Adorn Cosmetics, equality is embedded in the culture of the business.

Briony explains that the most impactful changes have come from hiring and promoting based on skills and values, supported by open communication and flexibility.

“When people feel trusted and valued, they perform at their best, and that naturally creates a more balanced environment.”

Supporting Women Through Every Stage of Life

Briony believes businesses need to recognise that careers — and life — rarely follow a straight line.

“Women move through different seasons such as early career growth, motherhood, leadership and reinvention, and support needs to adapt accordingly.”

Flexibility, respect for personal choices and understanding different life stages are essential for creating environments where women can thrive.

The Responsibility of Brands

Brands also play a powerful role in shaping how women are represented.

“The way we represent women in marketing, leadership and product development shapes perception.”

Briony believes brands should reflect the real diversity of women’s lives, across different ages, backgrounds and experiences.

“Balanced representation is not just ethical, it is accurate.”

Advice for Women in Leadership

Her advice for women stepping into leadership roles is grounded and practical.

“Be steadfast in your direction, even when not everyone understands your vision. You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to lead well. Leadership is built through consistency, integrity and delivery.”

Women Who Inspire

Briony says her own journey has been influenced by many women rather than a single mentor.

“Often it’s not one person but a collection of women who show you what is possible. Watching how they navigate challenges with composure and strength has influenced how I lead today.”

A Message for International Women’s Day

Her message this International Women’s Day is simple but powerful.

“Remember that it is not a competition. Support begins with us. If we are not respectful and supportive of one another, progress becomes harder.”

She encourages women to recognise how far progress has come while continuing to support and uplift one another.

“International Women’s Day is a reminder to honour where we are, acknowledge how far we have come, and continue creating space for women in all stages and forms of leadership.”