Some stakeholders have called on concerned authorities to prioritise the active inclusion and collaboration with women in workplaces and society.
They said that such a move would create equitable opportunities for women in all spheres of life.
That was the consensus of participants at the Polaris Bank’s International Women’s Day webinar themed ‘Empowering Voices: Women Leading Change’.
According to a statement made available to our correspondent on Monday, the webinar offered a dynamic platform for insightful conversations to take place about the well-being of women.
The 2024 International Women’s Day campaign theme was ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ and it recognised that despite progress made, women face significant obstacles to achieving equal participation in the economy.
In his opening remarks, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kayode Lawal, emphasised the indispensable contributions of women to societal progress and economic development.
He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and empowers women to excel.
Reflecting on the global theme of IWD 2024, Lawal highlighted the importance of creating a culture where everyone feels valued and respected.
He reiterated Polaris Bank’s dedication to providing a conducive work environment for its female workforce, free from biases and discrimination.
Panelists at the event delved into crucial topics such as; self-esteem, mental wellness, workplace policies, and the importance of inclusive infrastructure.
They emphasised the need for collaborative efforts from all segments of society to support women in realising their aspirations.
The Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of HerVest, Ms Solape Akinpelu, stressed the significance of inclusivity and called for “concerted action to dismantle societal narratives that undermine women’s capabilities”.
She noted that women were not helpless and advocated for proactive measures to counter sub-conscious biases.
In her contribution, Bukola Oluyadi, who is in charge of sustainability in Polaris Bank, emphasised the importance of connecting with women in the workplace.
According to her, when women feel appreciated and encouraged to bring their best to the table, it enhances their sense of value and contribution.
