International Women's Day 2024

Celebrating International Women's Day! ??♀????

This year let's embrace the theme of 'Inspire Inclusion’.

Here’s to all the incredible women who break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive world.

Together, let's empower, uplift, and stand united for progress!

What does inclusion mean to you? ??

In celebration of International Women's Day, we asked employees to reflect on their personal and professional journeys, sharing stories and offering empowering words for women navigating their own paths. Their responses not only reveal individual narratives but also shed light on broader issues like encouraging women in leadership and fostering gender equality in the workplace. ??

How can we encourage and empower women to take on leadership roles and contribute their perspectives in decision-making processes?

"It is important to recognise women’s strengths, skills and talents.? As a manager to provide support and feedback will encourage and challenge them to grow, and even if you have part time women employees, involving them in the decision making process shows you value their opinions and trust their judgment and leadership. This will also help them develop their critical thinking, communication, collaboration skills which are vital for taking on more responsibility."

Charlotte Russell, Business Development Manager

Can you share a personal experience where you overcome challenges in your profession or personal life.

"Coming out of Lockdown; I found myself isolated and recluse;

Reaching out to others; I sought out help through counselling and focused on my wellness to achieve a healthier balance in work and life.

Be Brave; seek help and don’t suffer in silence."

Clair Wyld, Senior Sales Manager

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you personally?

"To me it means creating a working environment where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of gender or background."

Jake Healy, Delegate Sales Manager

Which female role models have inspired you in your career? And why?

"Cliché but, my Mum. She is a black, single Mum of 2 girls and hasn’t let anything hold her back. She’s smashed stereotypes, shattered the glass ceiling, and continues to thrive in her career. She’s taught her daughters strength, resilience and never to let anything hold you back.

Thanks Mum ??"

Olivia Drake, Sales Executive

What words of encouragement would you give to women to inspire their professional journeys?

"I would offer this message of encouragement: Embrace your uniqueness, cultivate your strengths, and never underestimate the value of your voice. Your journey may be filled with challenges, but each obstacle is an opportunity for growth.

Surround yourself with a supportive community, seek out mentors who champion your ambitions, and remember that your worth is immeasurable. Moral of the story is always believe yourself. ??"

Lucia Alio, Portfolio Delegate Manager

What words of encouragement would you give to women to inspire their professional journeys??

"I started as a Marketing Coordinator here at Forum Events. Five years on, I have progressed to a Marketing Manager, overseeing two team members. Proud of where I have got to and looking forward to what comes next.

My words of encouragement would be to keep pushing forward, don’t shy away from challenges. Take them head on as they are an opportunity for growth and to push yourself. Be comfortable with the uncomfortable and never doubt your ability to achieve your goals. No one knows what you’re capable of apart from yourself, so don’t listen to anyone who doubts you. Dedication and staying determined will bring positive results!

Most importantly, avoid comparing yourself to others, focus on your own path."

Lauren Thackeray, Marketing Manager

What steps do you think workplaces can take to ensure gender equality and create a more inclusive environment?

"To make workplaces more inclusive and equal, they should set up clear rules against any kind of discrimination, ensure everyone gets fair pay and perks, offer flexible work setups, give women a chance to lead, and make sure different voices are heard when making big decisions.

Also, supporting groups for employees and teaching about diversity can help. Most importantly it’s important to encourage everyone to find that work-life balance! It's all about making sure everyone feels valued and respected."

Matt Riddle, Delegate Sales Executive

How can we encourage and empower women to take on leadership roles and contribute their perspectives in decision-making processes?

"The world needs to work harder to help empower women/girls to have the same advantages as men/boys, this needs to start from the nursery with all girls being given schooling from an early age and not excluded no matter their culture.

Laws and regulations need to be implemented so that females from all countries and cultures are guaranteed a safe and open environment for women's participation and leadership. Establish policies and practices that encourage women's leadership and promote gender parity. Invest in and development and programs that enable women to succeed as leaders."

Lisa Rose, Senior Sales Support Manager

In summary, the responses from our amazing employees not only paint a picture of personal triumphs but also provide a roadmap for creating workplaces where gender equality and inclusivity are not just ideals but everyday realities! ??

#IWD2024 #InternationalWomensDay #InspireInclusion #WomensDay2024 #EqualityForAll