Feminism isn’t just a women’s issue

In 2013 Lloyd Barnes was diagnosed with breast cancer, which for her was a turn in the road. “It felt like a sign from the body to think differently,” she explained. She found power in her experience, and in turn felt now she had the power to change something, be brave, more confident and create space for things to happen. “We all face challenges, but for me as a woman, it was about me getting out of my own way,” she added.

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable

Similar to imposter syndrome, the idea of self promotion is also one that fills many women with dread. Nicola Kemp, Editorial Director at Creativebrief shared an approach to self-promotion in which we are kinder to ourselves and acknowledging the overwhelm that many women feel in their roles. An overwhelm fuelled by a challenging and unstable socio-economic landscape that heightens all the day-to-day pressures people face. An ecosystem which has left 26% of people feeling constantly anxious about their jobs.

Kemp urged the audience to find their own pace in the always-on marketing ecosystem. A  formula which focuses on presence, action, consistency and emotion. Being present to know that if the way you work isn’t working then change it. Taking action inspired by Sarah Elis who says ‘it is no one else’s job to drive your career forward.’ Being consistent by finding what you are good at and working with others to enable your skill set. And, embracing emotion by finding a passion point and channeling your emotions into action. “Let your rage be fuel and not a forest fire, it’s a myth that you care too much,” she added.

We progress when we all progress

Despite the collective challenges we face, Crystal Nyarko, Social Media Executive at Media For All (MEFA) reminded the audience of the importance of looking at things through an intersectional lens to consider how different groups are impacted.

MEFA exists to raise black Asian and ethnic voices within the industry to drive DEI efforts. MEFA circles explore acute marginalisation in the hopes to gain a better understanding and foster more inclusive environments. Nyarko revealed that the data shows only 29% of Black women agreed that new people in their organization have an equal chance to rise to the top versus 43% among all women. She shared that while only 37% of 18-34 year olds feel that their organisation is helping minorities to thrive vs 49% of the 35-44 age group. Statistics which underline the importance of equity and a shift in approach to ensure that everybody can rise.

“Women fit into lots of different sections with components that make us who we are”, says Nyarko, “addressing intersectionality can help create workplaces where all can thrive and improve experiences.”

Ending the session a panel chaired by Susann Jerry, Strategic and Corporate Communications Leader, featuring Melanie Lalou, Head of Westfield Rise, UK, Emma Saddleton, Global Strategy Director at Carat and Matthew Eagle, Head of Investment at Dentsu X, explored how industry allies can work together to drive change.

Lalou and Saddleton shared the importance of women supporting other women and how the myths that society perpetuates block progress. While Eagle spoke on the importance of male allies, sharing how he and his wife’s experiences with baby loss fueled him to push toward policy and progression. Underlining the fact that feminism isn’t just a women’s issue, progress is good for everyone.