Celebrating International Women's Day, I reflect on the conversation about gender inclusion, its impact, and the steps taken within my workplace. It's a journey that goes beyond representation, aiming to create an environment where individuals of all gender identities feel not just seen but truly valued, respected, and empowered.

Within the confines of our workplace, these beliefs translate into strategic initiatives. Active listening becomes a cornerstone – not just hearing but acknowledging the perspectives of underrepresented groups. Our hiring process transforms, adopting gender-neutral language in recruitment advertisements to cast a wider net of candidates. Our Reward and Recognition programs evolve into personalised endeavours tailored to acknowledge individual needs and foster a genuine sense of belonging.

Mentorship programs become a vehicle for nurturing female leaders, offering guidance and growth opportunities. I am privileged to have the support and mentorship of leaders at Tecala who passionately champion diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace has been instrumental in shaping my journey. This support has elevated my professional standing and instilled in me a deep commitment to advocating for others and actively contributing to a more inclusive workplace.

A commitment to strategic and sustainable gender equality programs takes shape, recognising the need for systemic change. Tecala's Employee Value Proposition (EVP) champions flexibility, part-time options, various locations, and hybrid work models. The Tecala Learning Academy provides transparency and accessible career pathways for all employees. Tecala has been re-certified as a Great Place to Work for another year. Celebrating this achievement is important as it represents our people's feeling we are an inclusive environment that is a Great Place to Work.

In envisioning a more inclusive Australia, my focus shifts beyond gender binaries, acknowledging and including non-binary and gender-non-conforming individuals. The goal is to increase the representation of women in leadership roles across diverse sectors, with a specific spotlight on STEM fields. This involves implementing concrete measures such as quotas, mentorship opportunities, and support programs for women entrepreneurs – emphasising a holistic approach to gender inclusion.

Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) published base salary and total remuneration median gender pay gaps for private sector employers in Australia with 100 or more employees on 27 February 2024. Amidst over 5000 firms, our commitment to equality is a shining example as Tecala achieved a neutral gender pay gap well below the benchmark target. Recognising the role of the Australian government, I commend initiatives like Women in STEM and stress the need for continuous support. Interventions addressing gender pay gaps, equal pay for equal work, and incentives for women in traditionally male-dominated fields like STEM are crucial steps forward.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, we must continue fostering a culture of acceptance and equality, paving the way for a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable future.