#EmbraceEquity: Uplifting Female Voices in Higher Education

#EmbraceEquity

This year’s International Women’s Day Theme is #EmbraceEquity, a campaign which draws attention to the difference between gender equity and equality. Even where everyone appears to have been allocated the same opportunities and resources, achieving true equity requires a sustained effort to accommodate the needs of different groups.

For Emma Leech, promoting equity in higher education means nurturing individual talents through a more inclusive and personalised approach. “Put people before process and let’s challenge conventions and focus on impact over hours”, is Emma’s advice. “Be open to flexibility… and ensure working practices don’t present unintended barriers”.

Breaking down barriers

Has the experience of women changed much from when our panellists started out? Thankfully it would seem the higher education sector is moving in the right direction.

Lauren Dunning believes that we have witnessed a positive sea-change within the sector. Over the past few years, she has felt “empowered to share ideas and influence decision-making at all levels”. She credits this increased openness with an important mindset shift in the sector, as people “start to realise that diverse mindsets and life experiences hold the key to their success”.

Emma Leech agrees, “There’s certainly more diversity in the room since I started 25 years ago, and we’re seeing more women leaders in all areas which is inspiring and gives me hope for an even more egalitarian future.”

An insular and male-dominated hiring process, once a significant obstacle for women looking to break into the field, is a barrier Emma believes has gradually receded. “We [in higher education] have made leaps forward in HR terms. Whilst things are never perfect, it’s definitely less “boys club” than I experienced at the start of my career”.

Despite much-needed progress, there remain challenges to be overcome. For Maree Perkins, persistent negative stereotypes around traditionally ‘feminine’ attributes pose the most significant barrier to women in leadership roles.

Traits such as sensitivity and empathy for others continue to be perceived as weaknesses, though “these traits are essential for good management, regardless of gender”, she reflects. “Understanding how to get the best out of your team is crucial for success, and a lot of that comes from empathising with situations and prioritising people’s wellbeing”.

Looking to the future

Lauren is optimistic about the future of equity in higher education and is confident that its positive trajectory will only continue. “I am excited to see what policy changes are put in place to break down barriers and attract a more diverse workforce”.

What advice would Maree offer to the young women who aspire to be part of this future workforce? The key to success is a belief in the value of your own contribution. “Own your worth and abilities. You have something to bring to the table, so bring it and don’t let anyone put you down for it!”