Include and invest in Women: Reflecting on International Women's Day 2024

I had the immense honour of hosting the International Women’s Day Event for Concentrix Catalyst ANZ on 8th March 2024. Consisting of a wonderful and passionate panel, we discussed topics under the key theme "Inspire Inclusivity: Count Her in, invest in Women and accelerate progress", diving into what inclusivity means to each of us, the benefits of investing in Women in the workplace and the power of perspective.

The impact of discussion

Albeit a stepping stone on the road to accelerating progress in gender equity, equality and inclusion, this open and active discussion played a pivotal role in fostering understanding, challenging stereotypes and questioning societal norms that perpetuate Women’s rights. 

Most interesting to me, however, was the discussion on intersectionality and how the layers of marginalised identities compound and cause disadvantage and discrimination at a larger scale. As someone who is a Mixed Race, Brown Woman working in a male-dominated industry, I’ve had my fair share of adversity and combated it on every occasion, but not without scars (literally and metaphorically). It was truly a great experience observing as this topic sparked conversations of learning and awareness, with colleagues and strangers opening their minds and absorbing this new information - and this is the point! These conversations illuminate the diverse experiences of Women, non-binary people, transgender and minority groups worldwide, highlighting the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, gender identity, sexuality, beliefs and more, and the vast impact and struggles this has on each individual.

In turn, this discussion also provided the opportunity to spur collective action towards creating a more inclusive work environment and drove home why it’s important that we keep the momentum after the event has ended.

The imperative of Inclusivity

When Women are included, their voices heard and their perspective respected, societies thrive. Workplaces thrive - ideas, progress and innovation thrive! We discussed how diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions, stronger decision-making and well-rounded ideas and thus the benefits of inclusivity extend beyond the moral imperative—they are tangible and measurable.

With this, it’s essential that every person ensures that diversity is in each room and meeting. And if not, ask yourselves why not? And address it at the root. It may be uncomfortable, awkward or confronting, but I think it’s time we start feeling comfortable with being uncomfortable, don’t you?

Next Steps: Keeping the Momentum

As we reflected on the valuable discussions and insights shared during our event, it was clearly crucial that we do our part to maintain this momentum, continue pushing the boundaries and challenging the current state. Here are some actions we can all take to keep the progress going:

• Educate and Advocate: Commit to learning more about gender equality, equity, Women’s rights and marginalised groups, both proactively and through an open mind. Have discussions, listen to experiences, observe and take-in. Use your awareness and knowledge to advocate for change in your communities and workplaces.

• Challenge the default: Be mindful of harmful language used that may seem minor but can impact greatly, such as the use of ‘girls’ when referring to Women you work with or gender-based jokes. Use preferred pronouns, proactively break down stereotypes and openly discuss how you and your family challenge the norm.

• Amplify diverse voices: Seek out and listen to the feedback and experiences of Women and marginalised groups from diverse backgrounds. Use your platforms, leadership and opportunities available to you to amplify their voices and stories.

• Implement Inclusive Practices: Evaluate and improve policies and practices in your organisations to ensure they promote gender inclusivity, equality and equity. Encourage safe spaces for Women such as dedicated slack channels, facilities and a trusted liaison. And most importantly, take driven and authentic steps to close the equity gap, ensuring to socialise throughout your organisation.

To close, we acknowledged things won’t change overnight. It’ll take active and continuous change to accelerate progress and each of us must take positive steps to spark forward momentum. In a world where diversity is our strength, let us inspire and uplift one another to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all Women and marginalised groups. Together, we can break barriers and build a world where every voice is heard and valued. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this piece, and joining in this celebration and discussion of unity and empowerment.