Accelerate Action: women at Spectrum share their vision for change
Every year on International Women’s Day, we reflect on the progress made towards gender equality – and the work still ahead. This year, we call for bold action for all women and girls so they may have equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal power.
Despite advancements, women continue to face inequities in pay, leadership opportunities, and unpaid care responsibilities. In Australia, the gender pay gap remains at 11.9%, and women take on almost double the unpaid care work of men. Women are also underrepresented in leadership, holding just 19.4% of CEO roles and 32.5% of key management position [1]. Globally, almost one in three women will experience gender-based violence in their lifetime [2].
The message is clear: progress isn’t happening fast enough. It’s time to move beyond conversations and take meaningful action.
At Spectrum, we asked the women in our RISE group for their ideas for accelerating action for women and girls. Their responses highlight the steps needed to create a more equal and inclusive world.
BREAKING BARRIERS AND CHANGING NARRATIVES
To accelerate change, we must challenge outdated ideas about gender, power, and leadership. Redefining strength and success is crucial to breaking down the barriers women face every day.
“Let’s look at our definitions of leadership and strength – these words and the traditional attributes and qualities assigned to them have been used to marginalise women. It’s time to change the narrative.”
True progress happens when we actively remove systemic barriers and amplify diverse voices.
“We must elevate diverse voices and dismantle systemic barriers to create lasting, inclusive change that empowers everyone.”
EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE
Workplaces play a critical role in driving gender equality. Creating structures that support women’s career growth, leadership, and well-being must be a priority.
“Implementing and championing flexible work arrangements, including hybrid schedules and parental support, ensures that women can thrive in their careers without compromising personal responsibilities. This fosters inclusion, retention, and leadership growth.”
“Connecting women with mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance and support.”
Gender equality isn’t just a women’s issue—it requires men in leadership to step up and be active allies.
“Facilitate discussions on unconscious bias and gender equality at workplaces and encourage men in leadership to actively support women’s career growth.”
CHAMPIONING THE NEXT GENERATION
The road to equality starts early. We must empower girls and young women to follow their passions, break stereotypes, and see their differences as strengths.
“Empowering girls and women from a young age to follow their passions, free from societal constraints. Our differences are not limitations, they’re our greatest strengths and skills. By breaking down stereotypes in education and careers, we unlock endless possibilities for women to lead in any field.”
WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN
Real change happens when women stand together, celebrate each other, and lift each other up – loudly and proudly.
“What I wish for myself, I wish for other women. Let’s empower each other in the workplace and stand for each other as our unity is our success.”
“Women Supporting Women, where we Shamelessly and Loudly Support, Stand Up for and Celebrate women.”
A CALL TO ACTION
At Spectrum, we are committed to taking real action – ensuring gender equality isn’t just a conversation, but a reality.
“We are proud to support this year’s theme, championing gender equality by celebrating the strength and resilience of women and girls across the globe.”
Finally, as we push forward, let’s take a moment to celebrate our successes – because every step forward matters.
“Understand what works and seek to apply it at Spectrum. Support and encourage those embarked on this journey. Happy IWD all. Don’t forget to celebrate your successes – women have a tendency to downplay them due to humility and lack of confidence.”
On this International Women’s Day, we thank our RISE women for their insights and ideas, and we invite others to join us in accelerating action – because a fairer, more equal world benefits everyone.
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