A powerful new mural is inspiring girls in Australia to use their voice on this International Day of the Girl. Located beside Melbourne Central Station (along La Trobe Street), the artwork conveys the strength enabled by education, equality and a safe environment, and also celebrates the 25-year partnership between AkzoNobel and Plan International that helps provide that support in Australia and around the world.

The colorful design by young artist Daiana Ingleton features a girl speaking into a microphone against the backdrop of the Australian skyline – many iconic landmarks which are protected by AkzoNobel coatings and symbolize the company’s commitment to building safe cities in a variety of ways. Ingleton painted her first mural one year ago after winning a Neighbourhood Watch competition, and has now been commissioned to paint six murals in private and public spaces.

“I’m so excited to have this opportunity to paint something so meaningful,” says Ingleton. “Internal strength and girls’ right to independence are really important to me. The mural is a real achievement.”

“We are committed to building safer cities for young people through AkzoNobel Cares with education, training and skills development which help improve their job prospects,” says Ruud Joosten, Chief Operating Officer at AkzoNobel. “We hope the Melbourne mural and stories from our 25-year strong partnership with Plan International will inspire girls all around the world to pursue their dreams.”