As the Chief People Officer at Wirex, a global FinTech company, I firmly believe actions speak louder than words when it comes to diversity and inclusion. While we are proud of our gender balance of 46% women and 54% men, a commendable achievement for a technology company, we recognise that true progress lies in transcending mere statistics.
The theme for International Women's Day (IWD) 2024, "Inspire Inclusion," deeply resonates with our core values at Wirex. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute unlocks the true potential of diversity.
Understanding International Women's Day
Celebrated annually on March 8th, IWD boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Emerging from the global labour movement, IWD initially championed women's suffrage and rights in the workplace. Over time, its scope has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of issues affecting women globally, including gender equality, reproductive rights, combating violence against women, and economic empowerment.
IWD serves as a powerful platform to not only commemorate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history, from pioneering leaders to unsung heroes driving positive change in their communities but also to ignite a collective commitment towards building a more equitable future.
Celebrating Women's Achievements
International Women's Day serves as a crucial reminder of the strides we've made towards gender equality but also highlights the journey ahead. It's a day to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women everywhere, from inspiring leaders to everyday heroes driving positive change in their communities.
Beyond Recognition: Building Pathways to a More Inclusive World
While celebrating achievements is crucial, IWD compels us to move beyond mere recognition. It is a potent call to action, urging us to actively create pathways for greater inclusion and opportunity for all. By inspiring others to understand and value inclusion, we collectively contribute to building a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has the chance to thrive.
The Transformative Power of Diversity
Throughout my career, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of diverse and inclusive teams. When individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together, innovation flourishes, fresh ideas surface, and previously insurmountable barriers crumble. This willingness to embrace change fosters a more dynamic and successful organisation.
Fostering a Culture of Belonging
At Wirex, we understand that true inclusion goes far beyond mere numbers. We are committed to fostering a culture of belonging where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work, where their voices are heard and valued, and where individuality is celebrated. Initiatives like IWD and Women's History Month hold immense value because they shine a spotlight on the importance of diversity and inspire us to continuously strive for a future where inclusion is the norm.
Be the Change You Want to See
As we celebrate IWD 2024, let's not only acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of women but also commit ourselves to building a more inclusive future, together. Let's transform inspiration into tangible action, every single day. We, in leadership positions, have a significant responsibility to champion the change we want to see, and the HR department plays a crucial role in driving these initiatives forward.
Through collaboration, commitment, and a collective effort, we can create a world where diversity is embraced, equality is achieved, and inclusion becomes the cornerstone of our society.
Happy International Women’s Day,
Tracey