International Women’s Month celebrates women’s achievements and highlights the ongoing journey to equality. With numbers of female Cadets growing every year, rising to 39% in 2024, Defence Relationship Management (DRM) wants to mark the women who help shape the future of the Cadet movement.
DRM spoke with three Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs): Tracy Stevens, a Petty Officer in the Sea Cadets, Lieutenant Colonel Dionne Konstantinious, Deputy Commandant for Greater London South East Sector Army Cadets (GLSEACF) and Kelly Newton, a District Officer in the Sea Cadets.
They share their experiences, the impact of the Cadets, and their hopes for the future of women in the movement.
Women Leading the Movement
Throughout March, DRM and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (RFCA) are celebrating the contributions of women across the Armed Forces community. As part of this initiative, DRM spoke with CFAVs from various units across London. Kelly, a District Officer for London Southern District, also works for the London Ambulance Service as an IMD emergency resource dispatcher. Tracy, a business coordinator for Guys and Saint Thomas’ NHS trust, volunteers as a Petty Officer for the Cadets. Dionne, multifaceted Development Coach with in primary & secondary education who is also a Lieutenant Colonel for the GLSEAC.
Kelly has been involved in the Cadet movement for the past 28 years, starting as a Cadet herself. “I was drawn to the opportunities available for young people, especially the chance to develop leadership skills, discipline, and take part in adventurous activities,” she says. At 18, she became a CFAV to give back to the community and guide future Cadets.
Tracy’s journey begins in 2001 when a fellow volunteer invited her to get involved at her child’s Cadet unit. “One of the volunteers asks, ‘So, what do you do while your son is at Cadets? Oh, you have some free time… wouldn’t it be nice to join us?’ And that’s exactly what I did!” Over time, she progressed within the Cadet movement and became a Petty Officer.
Dionne joined 32 years ago, inspired by the TV shows she used to watch as a kid: “I went along to the local Army Careers office to join the Army. The recruiter told me I was too young and that I should join the Army Cadets. So, I did.”
The Impact of the Cadet Experience
The Cadet movement builds both practical and personal skills essential for leadership and development. Reflecting on her experience, Kelly explains: “It gives me confidence, discipline, and a sense of responsibility that I apply in all areas of my life. It pushes me to be a better leader and teaches me the value of teamwork, resilience, and hard work. For young girls and women, the Cadets provide an empowering space to develop self-reliance and leadership skills.”
Similarly, Tracy agrees: “For young girls and women, the Cadet experience builds confidence and adaptability, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones. They develop essential life and teamwork skills.”
Dionne talks about the changes through the years: “When I joined there weren’t many female instructors certainly not in senior leadership roles. Today there is certainly more than one of us sat at the table or leading in their respective spaces. There is always space for improvement and a part from having more visible women in key roles it’s the attitudes and behaviours towards us that needs improvement.”
Kelly highlights the importance of role models: “It is heartening to see that we are breaking down stereotypes, and more young girls are realising they can aspire to positions of authority and responsibility.”
Tracy echoes this sentiment: “I see more female leaders stepping into key roles. However, there is always room for improvement. Encouraging more women to become CFAVs and creating leadership opportunities further balances representation,” she explains.
How can employers support CFAVs
Kelly and Tracy acknowledge the vital role their employers play in enabling them to volunteer. Their organisations recognise the benefits of the skills they develop as CFAVs and how these positively impact the workplace.
Kelly explains, “The Cadet movement has helped me develop a variety of transferable skills that are invaluable in my role at the London Ambulance Service. Leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making are key skills I’ve honed through my Cadet involvement. The emphasis on resilience and staying calm under pressure directly benefits my work in emergency services, where quick thinking and composure are critical.”
Tracy encourages other employers to support CFAVs: “Employers should recognise the immense benefits of supporting CFAVs. The leadership, teamwork, and adaptability skills gained are directly transferable to the workplace. The Cadets helped me develop strong organisational, leadership, and crisis management skills, all of which are essential in my NHS role.”
Breaking barriers: the future of women in Cadets
They share their hopes for the future of women in the Cadet movement.
Dionne emphasises the need for diversity: “Without our volunteers the cadet movement just does not happen. We need reliable, trustworthy and organised adults who can give their time to support the growth of our young people alongside the military ethos, values & standards.”
Tracy encourages more women to step into CFAV roles. “Stepping into a CFAV role is a chance to challenge stereotypes and become a strong role model for the next generation. More female CFAVs mean greater visibility, mentorship, and support for young girls considering a future in the Cadets.”
Kelly adds: “The Cadet movement offers an opportunity to break down gender stereotypes, empower young women, and show them they can be strong leaders. Women in leadership roles within the Cadet force are crucial in demonstrating to girls that they can rise to positions of responsibility, regardless of the environment.”
Finally, they share messages of encouragement in honour of International Women’s Day:
Tracy: “To all young women considering joining the Cadets or stepping into a CFAV role—go for it! Your voice, skills, and leadership matter. You have the power to inspire the next generation and shape the future of the Cadet movement.”
Kelly: “To all the women out there, whether you are a Cadet, a CFAV, or in any other walk of life, continue breaking boundaries and pursuing your passions. Let’s keep supporting and uplifting each other, creating spaces where women of all backgrounds feel empowered to lead and thrive. The next generation of girls needs to see that there are no limits to what they can achieve, and we have the opportunity to show them that.” Dionne: “Keep your crown polished ladies…you never know who’s watching you!”
- For more information about the Cadets Movement: RFCAs: find out more about the RFCA in your region – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- For more information on the ERS: Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- To pledge support to the Armed Forces community: Home – Armed Forces Covenant
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