To celebrate IWD we asked some powerhouse women from Because three key questions to get the lowdown on the women that have inspired them and their thoughts on gender equality.
Around the world, 8 March marks International Women’s Day (IWD), which celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women. This year’s theme, #ChooseTo Challenge encourages individuals to call out gender bias and inequality and seek out and celebrate women’s achievements so, collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.
When I look at the incredible women that form part of the Because family around the world, I am immensely proud. They are a true source of inspiration to those around them, as the women they chose to feature in their backgrounds (in the image above) have been to them. Likewise, I am as proud of the awesome men at Because who stand strong as champions of their female colleagues.
This year’s IWD theme states, ‘from challenge comes change”. Across the Because group we are all committed to choosing to challenge. We are committed to always being an inclusive agency and to creating an inclusive world.
To celebrate this important day, we asked three powerhouse women from Because some key questions to get their thoughts about gender equality.
Sharon Richey, Global MD, Because
1) If you could have dinner with any inspiring woman, who would it be – and why?
Bringing it closer to home, I’d invite a handful of my closest girlfriends over (global travel permitting!). Inspiration comes in many forms and whilst the women in my life are all different to one another, there’s a distinct common thread. They’re strong-minded, smart, witty, capable and determined; and they make me feel good about myself when I need their support.
2) What issue around gender equality are you most passionate about – and why?
In my opinion, it’s only ever about finding the very best person for the role, and then taking the time to determine if values and behaviours align. At Because, our senior team has an equal ratio of women to men. This wasn’t planned, it’s simply that we’ve only ever selected on talent, not gender; and the split has worked out as 50:50.
3) What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a young woman starting a career in marketing?
Try working initially both client-side and in an agency – both are two very different dynamics. You’ll quickly see which side of the table feels best for you. If you end up immersing yourself in agency life, then having done a stint client-side will stand you in good stead.
Meredith Cranmer, Founder & Managing Director, Because Australasia
1) If you could have dinner with any inspiring woman, who would it be – and why?
My (late) Nana Williams. She was a mum to 14 children and countless grandchildren. Her empathy, grace and the pragmatic life experience gained from raising and loving such a diverse group sits with me daily, especially as I reflect on my own journey into motherhood and what it means to be a woman. We must continue to share our stories with each other, they are powerful in connecting the past and where we have come from and help us to look forward.
2) What issue around gender equality are you most passionate about – and why?
Covid has vastly effected women in the workforce. Sadly the stats show more women have lost their jobs, have taken on most of the home schooling/ caring roles and some are considering down grading their jobs – the list goes on. We’re losing decades of progress due to the pandemic. I am passionate about this as this is pulling more women into poverty – particularly older women. To tackle this systemic issue, one thing we can all do in the workplace is understand our gender biases and how females are effected during a pandemic, and ensure women are represented at all levels of planning and decision making in the workplace.
3) What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a young woman starting a career in marketing?
Say yes to opportunities, even if you’re not quite sure. You’ll figure it out on the way.
Corinna Homer, Business Director, Because New Zealand
1) If you could have dinner with any inspiring woman, who would it be – and why?
Janelle Monáe. I love her creativity and her commitment to creating challenging music with a message. Monáe delivered a powerful speech at the 2018 Grammys. “We come in peace but we mean business. And to those who would dare try to silence us. We offer two words: Time’s up. We say time’s up for pay inequality. Time’s up for discrimination. Time’s up for harassment of any kind. And time’s up for the abuse of power. So, let’s work together.”
2) What issue around gender equality are you most passionate about – and why?
For me, it is equality in the boardroom and meetings. Over the years, there have been countless times I have been presenting, or meeting with suppliers, or being introduced to new people – and they then direct all questions to my male counterparts. Thankfully this is less common now but it still arises from time to time.
3) What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a young woman starting a career in marketing?
Value yourself, your worth, and your value to the business and your clients. We, as women, have been taught to smile, nod, and agree – be ballsy, fight for your place at the table!