CSR: Diversifying The Approach
Today, women are playing a significant role in sustainability initiatives for their organisations, which not only covers environmental and societal issues, but also focuses on issues of gender equality and inclusiveness in the workplace. There is an increase in the engagement with sustainability leaders from across industries, highlighting important milestones while taking on the challenges faced by women in sustainability.
In our own way, we should encourage engagement, inclusiveness and recognition of women at every step within the organisation. Address the issue of gender inequality and women empowerment. At the same time, acknowledging how important it is to bridging the gender gap, address issues of climate change and lead social mobilisation.
According to the Sixth Economic Census in India, only 14% of businesses in India are run by women, lower than in many other countries around the world. Yet, Indian women are fast taking to entrepreneurship, both to seize new opportunities, and out of necessity, to be financially secure while using their skills.
Considering societal and other barriers, women are making their way against the odds. Nirmala Menon, Founder and CEO of Interweave Consulting, with global experience of over 30 years says, “The Indian culture of how we raise girls comes in the way of success at work.” It is crucial to overcome these barriers with the support of other women.
Women’s Web is in its 6th edition of Breaking Barriers, is working around the theme of Innovating as Women in Business. Experienced women in business will get the opportunity to listen to speakers, in an environment that encourages networking and future collaboration among participants. Participations from past editions have hired women as employees and vendors, collaborated in mutually beneficial ways and act as peer mentors to each other.
It is important to know that leadership and performance has more to do with competency rather than gender. For the same to progress, we need to make conversations much flexible and easier. To use examples, for solving sustainability problems and driving social impact.
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Regards,
The CSR Journal Team
