Celebratory session on Women’s success and leadership

History of International Women’s Day – The historical journey of International Women’s Day is a testament to the global pursuit of gender equality.
What is equity (the difference between equity and equality) – It’s crucial to distinguish between equity and equality. Equality denotes treating everyone the same, irrespective of their unique circumstances. Conversely, equity entails acknowledging that individuals have varying needs and ensuring they receive tailored support and resources to attain equal outcomes.
What is bias – Bias encompasses the existence of unjust and prejudiced attitudes or opinions that influence our decisions and actions. It can manifest explicitly or implicitly, often resulting in unfair treatment based on factors such as gender, race, or age.
Discuss examples of bias women face in the workplace – Women frequently encounter bias in professional settings, including the perpetuation of gender stereotypes, wage disparities, and limited opportunities for career advancement. Instances of bias encompass women being unfairly perceived as less competent than their male counterparts, earning less for equivalent work, and facing underrepresentation in leadership roles.
Brainstorm solutions together – Addressing workplace bias necessitates a multi-faceted approach. It involves raising awareness about the issue, conducting unconscious bias training, advocating for diversity and inclusion, and implementing policies that guarantee equal pay and opportunities. Encouraging mentorship and sponsorship programs can also facilitate women’s progression in their careers.
Commit to one action each participant will take to #embraceequity – Each participant can make a personal commitment to take concrete action in the journey to #embraceequity. This commitment may involve advocating for gender-neutral hiring practices, mentoring a female colleague, or actively challenging biased behaviour when encountered.
How everyone can play a role in forging gender parity – Everyone holds a crucial role in advancing gender parity. By promoting an inclusive and respectful workplace culture, supporting policies that combat gender inequality, and actively championing the professional journeys of women, individuals can contribute significantly to this vital cause.
How we can be a part of the solution not the problem when it comes to gender equality – To be agents of change in the pursuit of gender equality, individuals must educate themselves about gender-related issues, confront and challenge their own biases, and actively support initiatives aimed at closing gender gaps. By doing so, we can all play a part in creating a fairer and more equitable society.