1.Accelerate Action: The Power of Allyship

Let’s talk about women! Incredibly diverse, resilient, and powerful beings who embody strength, compassion, and beauty in all aspects of life – especially at the workplace. 

Women are not to be asked what they bring to the table because they have proven time and time again that they can deliver valuable contributions to the workplace environment, including diversity of thought and perspective, leadership and management skills, innovation and problem-solving abilities, mentoring and development expertise. They do all these and still crush that work-life balance.They not only thrive in the workplace, they take care of their homes and are excellent wives and mothers outside their jobs. 

Women deserve all the accolades they get. But unfortunately they don’t get enough, especially at the workplace. Globally, over 2.7 billion women are legally restricted from having the same choice of jobs as men. Of 190 economies assessed in 2023, more than one-third (69 economies) have laws constraining women’s decision to work, and 43 economies have no laws on sexual harassment in the workplace. (UNwomen.org, 2024)

This is one of many restrictions that women face in the workplace and beyond. There is a lot of work being done to bridge that gap and make sure women are given the same advantages as men, are safe and protected at the workplace and have the same opportunities presented to men. However, there’s still a long way to go. This is where allies come in – individuals who recognize the disparities and are committed to using their privilege and influence to create a more inclusive and equitable environment. 

Allies can be men or women, and they play a crucial role in amplifying women’s voices, challenging biases, and advocating for policies and practices that promote equality. Both gender play different roles and work together to 

How Male Allies Advocate For Women At The Workplace 

1. Amplify women’s voices: Use their privilege to amplify women’s voices, ideas, and concerns.
2. Challenge sexist behavior: Speak up when witnessing sexist behavior, language, or microaggressions.
3. Support women’s leadership: Advocate for women’s leadership and advancement in the workplace.
4. Listen and learn: Educate themselves on women’s experiences, challenges, and perspectives.
5. Use their privilege to advocate: Leverage their privilege to advocate for policies, practices, and cultural changes that promote gender equality.

How Female Allies Advocate For Women At The Workplace 

1. Support and uplift each other: Foster a culture of support, encouragement, and empowerment among women.
2. Mentor and sponsor: Offer guidance, mentorship, and sponsorship to junior women, helping them navigate the workplace.
3. Create safe spaces: Establish safe spaces for women to share their experiences, concerns, and ideas.
4. Advocate for policies and practices: Advocate for policies, practices, and cultural changes that promote gender equality and support women’s advancement.
5. Celebrate women’s achievements: Recognize and celebrate women’s achievements, contributions, and successes.

By working together, male and female allies can create a more inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace culture.

We are all supposed to advocate for women and play our individual roles to make sure they are recognised and given all the support they need. Here’s how you can become an ally:

How Can You Become An Ally

1. Listen and learn: Educate yourself on the issues women face in the workplace and listen to their experiences.
2. Speak up: Use your voice to challenge discriminatory behavior and language.
3. Advocate for policies: Support and advocate for policies and practices that promote equality, such as flexible work arrangements, equal pay, and protections against harassment.
4. Mentor and sponsor: Offer guidance and support to women in your network, and use your influence to help them advance in their careers.

Together, We Can Create Change

By working together, we can create a workplace culture that values and supports women, and provides equal opportunities for all. It’s time to recognize the power of allies and the critical role they play in closing the workplace gap. Will you be an ally for women in the workplace?