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Every year, International Women’s Day selects a theme to unite individuals worldwide. This year’s theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” encapsulates the essence of fostering understanding and appreciation for women’s inclusion. 

By motivating others to recognise and embrace women’s contributions, we pave the way for a more equitable society. When women are empowered to participate fully, they experience a profound sense of belonging and relevance. The goal of the #InspireInclusion campaign is to cultivate a world where women feel valued and integrated.

This International Women’s Day, we asked fellow Mediatropians to name the women that inspired them and how individuals can promote gender equality and support women’s advancement in the workplace on a day-to-day basis. And their responses are nothing short of empowering.

Shinta Hawa
Country Team Lead
Mediatropy Bali, Indonesia

The women who inspired her include her mother and mother-in-law, both possessing exceptional work ethic and unwavering dedication to securing a brighter future. Their influence transcends gender, serving as beacons of inspiration.

To inspire more women in the workplace, she believes we need to “Encourage a work-life balance policy with parental leave and childcare support, benefiting both women and men at work. Also, equal opportunities in hiring, promotions, and leadership roles for women. I’m happy that Mediatropy sets a good example by offering these two benefits that definitely can support women’s advancement in the workplace.”

Rizqi Daniya
Full Stack Developer
Mediatropy Bali, Indonesia

Najwa Shihab, Susi Pudjiastuti, and Emma Watson are among those who inspire her. To promote inclusion, she believes in ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity for leadership roles, promotions, and career growth, irrespective of gender.

There are lots of things each of us can do to promote gender equality and help women succeed at work. She believes, “We can start by making sure everyone has a fair shot at leadership roles, promotions, and career growth, regardless of gender. It’s about really listening to what women have to say in meetings and discussions, making sure their voices count and are respected. We should also push for fair policies and practices that include everyone, and take the time to educate ourselves and others about why gender equality matters, and how biases can affect our decisions at work. By doing these things, we can all play a part in making our workplace fairer and more supportive for everyone.”

Rachel Hargreaves
Creative Strategist
Mediatropy Malaysia

The women who inspired her are quite diverse and influential. There’s her best friend, who stands by her through thick and thin; her Account Director at Mutant PR, setting high standards in the professional realm; an ex-colleague, once holding a regional role at Hilton in Malaysia, who undoubtedly left an impression; and of course, icons like Julie Andrews and Taylor Swift, each leaving their mark in their respective fields. Pocahontas, both the fictional Disney character and the real historical figure, embody strength and resilience. And now, Bobbie-freakin-Draper, a new addition to the roster, who adds another layer of inspiration.

To inspire inclusion she believes, “standing up for your fellow women when they are being beaten down, is good enough. We are stronger together.”

Jasmine Lim
Senior Account Manager
Mediatropy Singapore

Rachel Lim from Love Bonito, Crystal Lim-Lange from Forest Wolf, and her ex-boss Roshni Mahtani from theAsianparent are among those who inspire her. To foster inclusion, she believes in supporting working mums, recognising their efforts to balance career and family responsibilities. She advocates against penalising women as long as the work is done well, promoting a fair and inclusive work environment.

Gillian Chow
Technical Project Lead
Mediatropy Malaysia

The woman who inspired her is Sheryl Sandberg. She champions inclusion in the workplace, emphasising the importance of mutual support and openness in addressing challenges or unfair treatment. Gillian believes that by “supporting each other and being willing to open up when they face any challenges or unfair treatment in the workplace” serves as a guiding principle for fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Lynie Rose Tinguban
Senior SEO Specialist
Mediatropy Philippines

Her grandmother is her source of inspiration. To promote inclusion as she aptly puts it, “Celebrating achievements, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive workplace.”

Intan Elfita
Digital Account Executive
Mediatropy Bali, Indonesia

Her inspiration is Jacinda Ardern, admired for her bravery and gentle yet cool representation of women. To foster inclusion, she believes in having the flexibility to raise one’s voice and opinion. She acknowledges that Mediatropy already embodies such a culture, providing a platform for diverse voices to be heard.

Leanne Nicholls
Creative Director
Mediatropy Singapore

The woman who inspires her is her mum! And also Mary Portals, a trailblazer and advocate for gender equality. To inspire inclusion at the workplace, she believes in doing “regular check-ins” with team members to understand their career goals, challenges, and areas where additional support is needed. Leading by example and demonstrating inclusive behaviour and leadership by treating everyone with respect. Promoting work-life balance by respecting personal time and setting reasonable expectations for work hours.”

Kim Brua
Copywriter
Mediatropy Philippines

Her inspiration is former Vice President of the Philippines, Leni Robredo, admired for her class, competence, and proactive approach to challenges. She aims to emulate Robredo’s accomplishments and nurturing spirit. To inspire inclusion, she advocates to have, “Fair pay, accommodations for moms and women who are caretakers of their parents, and consistent empowerment.”

The stories shared by these remarkable women at Mediatropy illustrate the diverse sources of inspiration that drive them towards fostering inclusion and gender equality in the workplace

Together, let us continue to strive towards a future where equality and empowerment are the cornerstones of our professional environments.