Lutheran Care’s Executive Manager Services & Practice Quality Ashleigh Hosking shares why her grandmother is her biggest inspiration and reflects on her career as part of Lutheran Care’s series for International Women’s Day 2026.

1. What motivates you to work at Lutheran Care?   

I am strongly driven by making a positive impact in the communities we work with. The dedication, energy, and commitment shown by staff at all levels across LC, both to their roles and to the families and individuals they support is truly inspiring, and I feel privileged to be part of it.

2. Can you tell us a bit about your journey to reaching this point in your career?    

I bring over 20 years of experience in human services, shaped by a strong commitment to dignity, equity, and meaningful outcomes for people and communities. My work has spanned government and NGO settings across acute nursing, aged care, disability, and community services. I also bring my lived experience into this space, which informs my empathy, deepens my understanding, and anchors my practice in what truly matters. Over time, my focus has evolved from walking alongside individuals and families to supporting positive change at a systems level. This shift reflects my belief that sustainable impact comes from addressing not only individual needs, but also the structures and practices that shape people’s lives, a focus that continues to motivate and inspire me.

3. How do this year’s International Women’s Day themes, “Give to Gain” and /or “Balance the Scales” resonate with you?

Balancing the scales really resonates with me. It’s something women of all ages need to do, especially given the significant caring responsibilities many of us hold outside of work. Taking moments to rebalance, to pause, and to remind myself of what matters has been essential in helping me sustain both my work in the sector and my family life.

4. Which woman inspires/inspired you and why? 

I am deeply inspired by my grandmother and grandfather, who have shaped my understanding of strength, resilience, and compassion. My grandmother was one of the first kidney transplant recipients in South Australia, and throughout her life she faced immense hardship and ongoing health challenges. Yet despite those struggles, she carried herself with unwavering positivity. She had an extraordinary ability to dig deep, to show gratitude, and to continue giving to the community whenever she could. Her determination to make a difference, even on the hardest days, taught me what true courage looks like. She showed me again and again that resilience isn’t just about pushing through, it’s about choosing hope, working hard and having a purpose in the face of adversity. Both my grandparents embodied the quiet, enduring strength that continues to guide and inspire me in my own life and work.

5. What is the best piece of advice you have received from a woman in your life?

Be kind to yourself.

As women, being kind to ourselves often falls to the bottom of the list because we’re so focused on meeting everyone else’s needs first. Learning to show myself more kindness has helped me recognise and appreciate the good work I do. It has taught me that it’s okay to take a break, it’s okay to say no, and it’s okay to put my own needs first when balancing the scales.

6. What are your hopes for young women today?

My hope is that they continue to build a community and culture where equality is truly felt at home, in the community, and in the workplace. I believe all women should support one another; we should lift each other up.