07/03/2023
Dear Ladies of Team Priority,
Since 1911, International Women’s Day has been a focus for the call to accelerate women’s equality. With little progress being made in far too many parts of the world it should be a time to reflect on our own roles and the influence we can bring as mothers and sisters, colleagues and members of the community. How can we each advance the change that must happen?
In this context, a few thoughts on what influenced me. Firstly, as a daughter I was lucky - my father was a clergyman, a feminist and with a wonderful sense of humour. With two daughters and a strong wife, he believed ardently there was nothing that was limited by gender and for that I am eternally grateful.
I hope those same beliefs carried through to my children. When they were little, my role was “Mum”, and like all of you, a magician able to literally “kiss it better" so all the more important to not set artificial boundaries. It was not always easy -other generations, the in-laws and different cultures all exert their influence, not to mention the challenges of helping them navigate the journey into adulthood.
Today I cannot “kiss it better” and my children no longer fit on my knee. Instead I can offer the wisdom earned through my own experiences and from the many amazing people I have met along life’s journey, who add another perspective. I’ve met mothers of children undergoing difficult medical treatment in my work with anon-profit, I’ve worked in my professional life with women who are company founders, regional and global chief executives, and each had a story to tell of challenges, disappointments and ultimately of success.
This same approach to equality is fundamental here at Priority Consultants. Since our earliest days, our team has included many outstanding female executives who have more than held their own with their male colleagues. It is a constant frustration that our profession is sometimes seen as more suited to women because it is a “softer” role. It is no such thing - looking back to those early days working with clients in the engineering, offshore and manufacturing arenas, thanks to my attitude and upbringing, the hard hat and safety boots fit me very well.
Today our Priority women work in every area, from management to finance, client servicing to training. Your contributions are invaluable and we salute your dedication and hard work.
I know that you each carry multiple responsibilities at home as well as at work, and for many I know you may still be fighting the battle for equality in too many areas of life. It takes time to change national cultures and political agendas but I am proud to say that here at Priority, no-one faces gender discrimination.
Wishing all our wonderful women at Priority Consultants an excellent International Women’s Day and let’s all work towards the end of inequality in both thoughts and actions.
Jane.