IWD 2022 perspectives: Anne-Sophie Aguado

This year’s International Women’s Day 2022 theme is #breakthebias. The focus is on collectively working towards a gender equal world, one that is free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality and we can all #breakthebias.

We are proud to be celebrating International Women’s Day 2022. We talked with Anne-Sophie Aguado, Sourcing Manager in one of our food squads, about what #breakthebias means to her.

“While there has been improvement in gender equality in many countries, our collective history was built on inequality for so many generations. Most cultures were built upon societies that were made by males, for males; some still are.?Given that, we have to collectively work hard to challenge and break those unconscious biases within ourselves,” Anne-Sophie said.

As the wife of another woman, and a mother of two daughters, Anne-Sophie wants stereotypes of what being a woman means to be broken.

“I want my kids to grow to be the women they want to be without being rejected by society or facing hardship.”

Anne-Sophie feels that breaking the bias has the potential to unlock capacity for organisations.

“There is nothing worse than feeling underestimated, not respected or not supported just because of who you are. Breaking the bias promotes equality, and for me that is about opportunities and rewards being determined on merit. People that feel recognised and rewarded based on their hard work give 200% of themselves to the organisation,” she said.

“In the corporate world, there is much work yet to be done. I believe about 29 per cent of top leaders are currently female. While some might say that women aren’t putting themselves forward for opportunities, or prefer to focus on family, I think we need to work harder to create environments where we support women in their aspirations.”

A collective effort, with men, women and organisations all playing a part in change, is something Anne-Sophie feels is critical.

“Achieving equality without men, who make up 50 percent of the population, doesn’t make any sense and is frankly impossible. Women need men, and the organisations they collectively work for, to be active in making a difference to career progression for women. That might mean giving women opportunities to take the next step up in their career, even if they are coming back from parental leave, or backing them to take on the next challenge.

“Organisations need to be active in making a difference, and in recognising that the different perspectives and approaches that woman bring to the table are a strength, not a weakness. Females are smart and capable. They often deliver mutually beneficial results for business and the community, and frequently have an emotional intelligence that can’t be learnt. These are assets to any business.”

Anne-Sophie suggests that ensuring women feel welcome, included and empowered is a huge advantage for organisations.

“Organisations that make women welcome, included and empowered are more attractive workplaces to not only women, but men also. This is particularly true for the new generations coming into the workforce. Harnessing the skills, knowledge and value of people who want to work for an organisation that has strong values, and works to ensure that its people are happy, heard and respected is a huge opportunity for organisations.”

When Anne-Sophie is asked about the advice she has for other women she says that self-belief is the foundation for success.

“Believe in yourself, even if no one else does. Be strong, face your fears and be confident you can learn and do anything. But if you end up in the wrong environment or culture, don’t wait for things to change by themselves. If you can’t be yourself and be appreciated where you are, take control and look for other opportunities. We are lucky that there are many organisations out there, so find the right company and the right leaders that will believe in you, see your potential and support your aspirations,” she said.

“Also, make sure you see other women as allies, not competition. As Michelle Obama said, ‘If we cannot support each other, how can we expect males to support us.’”