8th Mar is International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honoring the social, economic, cultural, and political progress of women. The campaign theme this year is #EmbraceEquity. It is a reminder for us to continue to challenge gender stereotypes and bias, call out discrimination, and promote inclusion.
As a business leader, what can you do to celebrate this important day? Here are 5 simple but meaningful ideas for you and your team on 8th Mar.
1) Send an email to your team to educate them. (You will be surprised, many still do not know much about International Women’s Day.) Tell them why you believe this day is important and what are your thoughts and feelings. This is also an opportunity to share how #EmbracingEquity aligns with the organization or your personal values.
2) Do you know women are more likely to be asked to organize a staff gathering than men? Women are more likely to clear up a messy office table after a meeting. Look out for these silent contributors in your organization. Do something to recognize and thank them.
3) Organise a social media challenge – get everyone to post something on social media about the achievements of women. Who are the role models who are women – Mother Teresa, Marie Curie, Florence Nightingale? Alternatively, name a woman who has influenced you – a teacher, mentor, friend, or your mom. In what way has this person impacted or even inspired you? Create a hashtag contest and give awards to the post with the most likes!
4) Give back to society. Donate and serve women’s philanthropies in your country. A Google search for “women’s charities near me” produces more than 20 results in Singapore.
5) Organise a workshop on DEIB (diversity equity inclusion and belonging) for your colleagues. While DEIB are great values, we have different understandings of these words. Having a facilitated platform for discussion provides an opportunity for everyone to share his or her perception.