Inspiring Inclusion on International Women’s Day 2024 - What does inspiring incl...

Thursday, 07 March 2024 11:48

Inspiring Inclusion on International Women’s Day 2024 - What does inspiring inclusion mean to you?

By Data Army

Carmen Ogilvie, Senior Marketing Manager at Data Army

GUEST OPINION Inspiring inclusion is leading by example - doing and not just saying it - by offering equal access to opportunities and resources for all, including those who might otherwise be excluded or marginalised. When you really believe in inclusivity, and demonstrate it through actions, it can inspire others and other organisations to do the same.

Tell us about a specific action or initiative you’ve taken to inspire inclusion in your workplace or industry                                                                                                                                 
In 2023, we proudly partnered with the UNSW Women In Engineering Society, actively contributing to the empowerment of women in an industry where their representation has historically been limited. Our collaboration provided an avenue for mentoring students within the group, offering professional guidance during career fairs and networking events.

We’ve also provided career support for our female colleagues by sponsoring their participation in Women Rising, a career empowerment and leadership development program that uplifts women. We’ve seen this program’s positive impact on the professional development of our female colleagues.

However, our commitment to diversity extends beyond initiatives. When recruiting, our focus remains on identifying the most qualified individuals for each role, irrespective of their background, race, or gender. Notably, we've observed an impressive calibre of female applicants in the technology sector. Despite the fact that only 10% of our applicants are female, our team boasts a gender ratio with over 45% females, comprising talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

This inclusive approach enriches our work environment and fosters diversity, where each team member brings unique perspectives and experiences.

We recognise that a diverse team is not only reflective of our values but is also instrumental in collaboration, innovation and success.

What would you like to see happen in to further promote female inclusion in the industry?
To encourage more women to enter the industry and balance ratios, female scholarships, educational programs and initiatives promoting STEM fields and visibility campaigns to highlight women in data professions can inspire the younger generation.

Other ways that the industry can further promote female inclusion is through wider implementation of diversity and inclusion training in workplaces, inclusive recruitment practices, gender equality practices, as well as female empowerment and leadership development programs and mentorship programs.

What do you believe in the one thing that governments should support in terms of inclusion for women?

I believe the government should drive more educational initiatives and invest in educational programs that encourage girls to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

Share an example of how someone else’s inclusivity towards you has impacted your career or inspired you to be more inclusive yourself.

Despite my family's male-majority composition, all of us were encouraged to pursue our professional goals with equal support. This inclusive environment significantly influenced my belief in the value of providing everyone, irrespective of gender, with the same opportunities to thrive in their chosen careers.

In my professional journey, I have been fortunate to have strong role models, guidance and mentors who played a pivotal role. Their inclusive approach fostered an environment where merit and potential were the primary considerations. This experience has not only shaped my career but also inspired me to champion inclusivity in my professional interactions.

Recognising the impact of inclusive practices, I'm committed to fostering a similar environment at Data Army. I actively promote equal opportunities, mentorship, and support for individuals regardless of gender. This stems from the belief that everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed, and inclusive practices contribute not only to individual growth but also to the overall success of teams and organisations.

Inclusivity is not just a personal value, but a principle that I strive to uphold and promote for the benefit of all.

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