Bridget Snelling’s Post

In the run up to International Women's Day I want to talk about a subject close to my heart, equal parenting. If we want equality for women in the workplace, employers have to support and encourage working fathers to be equally involved and available to support raising their children. Many of us go into parenting slightly naive about the overall impact it will have on our working lives. The timing of drop offs and pick ups is taken out of our hands, where they go to nursery is often dictated by where there is space on the days you need and the level of "Chadmin" (child-related admin) is something I was wholly unprepared for. The reality is there is still more of a stigma in many workplaces, or in terms of reaction of others at large, about working fathers asking to work part-time or flexible hours. This us underlined by how regularly I am told how lucky I am that my partner works 4 days a week and helps with the kids. He is their dad of course he helps! Additionally, lack of paid parental leave for working dads in many workplaces disincentives them to be equally involved at the outset setting the tone of what is to come. We also need to recognise as a society that working part time or flexible hours or from home does not in anyway indicate less of a commitment to your job - far from it, it is usually individuals identifying how they can adapt their role to ensure they can give the most to it whilst balancing other commitments outside of work. The increase of employers demanding physical returns to the workplace flies in the face of this. Doing what we can for equality is so much more than posting about it on a Day chosen to raise awareness. We all need to play a part in practising what we preach. I couldn't do my job without an equal co-parent. Pictured is the Viking Ship he made with my eldest for her viking assembly this week whilst I tackled the World Book Day costumes and related activities. If society encourages and accepts equal parenting as the norm, working mothers will have the support they need to thrive.

On this Women's Day, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of working women around the world. We acknowledge the challenges they face, balancing work and family life, and the pressures they often shoulder disproportionately. I am also grateful for the strength and dedication of my own mother, who paved the way for me. As a working mother, I understand the challenges of balancing work and family life. For interpreters, this can be even more complex, managing demanding schedules, travel, and the need for focus. China boasts a significant female labor participation rate (around 61% in 2023). However, it's important to recognize the historical and social factors that have contributed to the decline in recent years (73% in 1990). Shifting childcare infrastructure: In the early 20th century, "working units" offered childcare and eldercare facilities, enabling women to participate more fully in the workforce. During economic reforms, these support systems were dismantled, leaving a gap in affordable childcare options. Social expectations: Traditional beliefs position children under 3 as primarily the mother's responsibility. This is reflected in the low percentage of children under 3 attending daycare. Self-identification: Societal norms often emphasize a woman's role as daughter, wife, and mother first. This can lead women to prioritize family needs over career advancement, especially with the rise of intensive parenting practices. With the social development, maybe the social belief will change too, as shown by more and more women who think marriage and children are giving way to economic independence and career success. Let's move beyond the concept of "balance" and focus on building a environment that supports all working parents, regardless of gender. May this day mark a turning point towards a future where women can pursue their professional ambitions without guilt or limitation.

On the International Women's Day, it's essential to recognize and celebrate the resilience and strength of returning mothers in the workforce. The journey of a mother returning to work after maternity leave is often filled with challenges, adjustments, and triumphs. Their determination and dedication not only contribute to their personal growth but also enrich the fabric of our workplaces and communities. The decision to return to work after having a child is deeply personal and complex. Many returning mothers face the daunting task of balancing the demands of their careers with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood. From navigating childcare arrangements to managing household duties, returning mothers often juggle multiple roles with grace and perseverance. One of the most significant challenges returning mothers encounter is the transition back into the workforce. After being away for an extended period, they may feel anxious about re-entering a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment. Moreover, the fear of being judged or overlooked due to their caregiving responsibilities can undermine their confidence. However, returning mothers bring invaluable skills and perspectives to the table. Their ability to multitask, problem-solve, and prioritize is honed through the daily challenges of motherhood. Moreover, the resilience they demonstrate in overcoming obstacles both at home and in the workplace is a testament to their strength and determination. Organizations play a crucial role in supporting returning mothers as they reintegrate into the workforce. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjusted schedules, are much needed. Additionally, offering mentorship programs and professional development opportunities can help returning mothers enhance their skills and advance their careers. On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the achievements and contributions of returning mothers. Their journey exemplifies the resilience, determination, and boundless potential of women in the workforce. By recognizing and supporting returning mothers, we can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace where all women can thrive. As we honor the achievements of returning mothers, let us also acknowledge the need for continued advocacy and support. By championing policies that promote work-life balance, gender equality, and parental leave, we can create a more supportive environment for returning mothers and empower them to pursue their professional aspirations while nurturing their families. In celebrating International Women's Day, let us not only recognize the accomplishments of returning mothers but also reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable world where every woman has the opportunity to succeed, both in the workplace and beyond. Together, we can create a brighter future for all women, today and every day. Happy Women’s Day!!!

How do we keep young, talented women in our industry? In the article below I explore the challenges and how the impact goes further than the individuals. “Fewer women means a less diverse, inclusive and profitable industry”.

As we enter #WomensHistoryMonth, I'm reminded of the profound impact of #motherhood and the responsibility we hold to shape a more inclusive world for the generations to come. I want my daughter to grow up in a world where her gender doesn’t limit her in any way. We all have a responsibility to 'Inspire inclusion', this year’s #InternationalWomensDay theme, for those around us and generations to come. #Inclusion isn't just about breaking down barriers; it's about creating an equitable world where women don’t have to fork out more for childcare than they earn, where career breaks to raise children are celebrated rather than penalised and where the decision to work, whether out of necessity or choice, is celebrated. I want women who, like me, raise children on their own to be supported. That support needs to be embedded in legislation, in employment and in communities, and solo parents should be recognised as inspiring role models for the children we raise. It’s time we challenged the inherent bias against solo parents in legislation and government policy, and that’s not just about solo mums but also solo dads. Being a solo or single parent is not considered to be a protected characteristic in the same way as race, disability or gender, so significant discrimination persists from the way the taxation and benefit systems work right down to the way leisure activities and travel is priced, where family deals are so often based on the two-parent model, adding to an already disproportionate financial burden. As a mum and CEO of Luna Foundation CIC where we’re improving the support for children who lose a parent to suicide, I'm committed to instilling in my daughter the importance of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. I want her to grow up in a world where differences are embraced, where her voice is heard and respected, and where she feels empowered to be her authentic self. But my vision extends beyond just my daughter. I believe that by inspiring inclusion today, we're laying the foundation for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow for all children, everywhere. It's a collective effort, and as mothers, as women, as allies, we have the power to effect positive change. So let's continue to champion #diversity, challenge stereotypes, and uplift one another. Let's create a world where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Together, we can #InspireInclusion and shape a future filled with endless possibilities. I hope I’m showing my daughter a way to live her life without limits, and that she will do the same for her own children, if she ever decides to become a mum herself. As an international keynote speaker, I inspire people to live a purpose-driven life, sharing my journey of resilience and overcoming adversity. I’m available for in-person events in Argentina, Brazil and Chile during #WomensHistoryMonth this March, and virtual events globally. More: www.annawardley.com #IWD #IWD2024

I don't think women are "better" than men. I don't think mothers are "better" than fathers or that parents are "better" than people who are not parents. I'm not a bra-burning, man-hating feminist. I don't even think I'm a feminist by some definitions: "An advocate of women's rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes." Equality assumes that everyone is given the same resources. I prefer working towards equity, where everyone gets the resources they need to achieve equal outcomes. ❓ (Maybe I'm just focused on semantics. What do you think?) ❓ In the workplace, focusing on equality often makes us lose sight of employees as individuals. This happens for various reasons - standardisation, efficiency, transparency, perceived fairness, and ease of application. But what I know is that working mothers are different. Trying to fit us into the "ideal employee" model doesn't work. As working mothers, we know this, yet we still try to meet this unattainable goal. A large part of why we do this is that we don't fully understand "motherhood." We don't fully understand what happens to a woman when she becomes a mother. Up until now, we couldn't know because there has been so little research in this area beyond our own lived experiences, which can be easily discounted and dismissed. We do this for fear of "overstepping" or offending anyone. We do this because we don't want to be seen as "less than" because we're mothers. We've been conditioned by society to "fit in." But in recent years, there's been more focus on the impact of motherhood on women. I believe that now that we know more, we should do better by working mothers. So, I focus on working mothers because: ✅ We operate at a disadvantage despite the best efforts of people and businesses to change this. ✅ Our understanding of what it means to be a working mother is incomplete and evolving. ✅ As we know more, we can do better. By doing better, we can move towards equity and equal outcomes for everyone. Because I want everyone to know more so that we can all do better, I'm sharing my insights into what we're learning about motherhood and what it means for working mothers in my new free webinar. I'd invite you to click on the link that I'll drop into the comments and watch this new webinar. Once you've done that, I'd love to know what you think! #balancingbrilliance #careerbalance #workingparents #NewWebinar #equity P.S. If you've ever felt the struggle of balancing career and motherhood, or if you're simply curious about the challenges working mothers face, this webinar is for you. Together, we can create real change. Sally Wade Coaching

This is a great article on women at work. #womenatwork #womenleaders

🌍✨ This International Women's Day 2024 was somewhat different. And I love it. I can feel the winds of change. I sensed more anger, maybe even more resentment as we are still overwhelmed and underappreciated. Louder voices, protests and planned walkouts. We are not being silent anymore about being asked to speak for FREE. We call out double standards when it comes to investment in female founders! And we realise equality starts at home. "I am not willing to put my career on the backburner anymore, each time my husband is gone," - said a fellow entrepreneur and working mum, Anna "I realised I don't have to do everything myself, and I don't want to," - said Lou, a working mother of three with neurotypical and neurodiverse children. "Once I had to leave mid-meeting, that I was chairing. I was still late to pick up my kids from childcare, and then there was still no dinner ready!" says Kate, a senior manager at a major bank. This year I have observed more anger and frustration about the huge gaps that persist. I loved seeing Christina Hobbs from Verve Super staging a walkout at 3:14 as the equivalent of the hours paid for the same work as our male counterparts. Which was picked up by Women's Agenda and some other networks. I saw Mia Fileman putting a list together of what each one of us can do, instead of talking BS and fluff around and sugarcoating us with cupcakes! Loved seeing Jodi Geddes and Kate Pollard from Circle In beating the drum about the lack of funding for female founders (only 2.3%). And I can't get enough of the 'no-prisoner' approach from Cindy Gallop advocating for more investment towards women. Despite strides towards equality, the gender pay gap persists, underscoring the need for action. At 99aupairs, we understand that support in the form of reliable and flexible childcare is not just a service but a cornerstone for empowering women in the workforce. 👩💼👶 Irene Becker, the founder of 99aupairs, puts it succinctly: "Being able to support working mothers in making a difference in their careers, while ensuring their children receive one-on-one care at home, underpins why 99aupairs exists." Coming from a corporate background and as a high achiever herself, Irene understands the nuances of balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities. 🌟 Cultural Au Pair Association of Australia (CAPAA), through agencies like ours, enables mothers to stay in the workforce, pursue their ambitions, and strive for leadership positions. We are here to ensure that women do not have to choose between their careers and their families. Let's use the momentum from the IWD and unite in our efforts to close the gender pay gap and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society. 🔗 Learn more about how you can join our cause and inspire inclusion in your community. Let's make waves. #InspireInclusion #IWD2024 #GenderEquality #SupportingMothers #99aupairs

A recent report titled “Predicament of Returning Mothers” uncovers a disheartening reality: 50% of India’s working women leave their jobs by age 30 to prioritize childcare, and nearly half of those who return to work ultimately quit within four months. This phenomenon, intensified by societal pressures and maternal guilt, emphasizes the challenges faced by working mothers worldwide. 💪 Despite the challenges they face, working mothers harness their unique experiences and skills to thrive in the workplace. Here are some key triumphs of working mothers : 🔴 Emotional Intelligence - They develop highly attuned emotional intelligence which enables them to navigate interpersonal dynamics, build strong relationships with colleagues, and effectively manage conflicts or negotiations. 🔴 Time Management - They become adept at prioritizing tasks, optimizing schedules, and maximizing productivity while juggling the demands of work and family life. 🔴 Flexibility and Creativity - They are masters of adaptability and innovation. Faced with constant change and unexpected challenges, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility in adjusting to new circumstances and finding creative solutions to complex problems. 🤩 Achieving healthy work-life balance is crucial for the well-being and productivity of working mothers. 🤩 Employers can support working mothers by offering flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible hours, to accommodate their family responsibilities. 🤩 Recognizing and celebrating their achievements, no matter how small, is essential for boosting morale and promoting a positive work environment. 🤩 Women like Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, have inspired working mothers globally by successfully managing high-profile careers while raising children. 🤩 Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, revolutionized the undergarment industry as a single mother, showcasing resilience and innovation. 🤩 Additionally, Toor Pekai, mother of Malala Yousafzai, bravely supported her daughter’s education and advocacy for girls’ rights in Pakistan, despite facing adversity. 💪 On this Father's Day, it's also essential to recognize the vital role fathers play in supporting working mothers. 💪 Fathers who share in childcare responsibilities and household duties contribute significantly to creating a balanced and supportive family environment. 💪 Celebrating fathers who champion gender equality and work alongside mothers is crucial. 💪 Their involvement not only supports working mothers but also sets a powerful example for the next generation. Type in your experience with a working mother and father that left you in awe !!!

The choices women make about their lives, especially regarding motherhood, are deeply personal and deserve respect and autonomy. In 2024, it is crucial to acknowledge that we are far removed from the 1950s when societal norms dictated women's roles primarily as mothers and homemakers. Today, women should have the freedom to define their lives on their own terms, without judgment or pressure to conform to outdated expectations. The rise of child-free women, whether by choice or circumstance, challenges the traditional notion of family and highlights the need for a more inclusive understanding of what family means. The new family in 2024 is not a one-size-fits-all concept. With nearly 50% of American women under 45 being child-free, the definition of family has expanded to include diverse forms of relationships and support systems. This shift is not only a demographic change but also a cultural one that requires a broader societal acceptance. As more women like Robyn Dutra and Paula Rizzo advocate for recognition and support, it becomes evident that family can encompass friends, partners, pets, and communities. This inclusive approach allows women to lead fulfilling lives without the traditional markers of motherhood, and it celebrates their contributions in various spheres, from professional achievements to personal well-being. The persistent stigma and societal pressures faced by child-free women underscore the importance of dismantling stereotypes and advocating for equality in the workplace and beyond. Women who choose not to have children should not be viewed as less valued, less fulfilled or less committed to their roles in society. Instead, their choices should be respected and supported through inclusive policies and practices. As Cassandra Rose points out, advocating for more inclusive care policies and fair workload distribution is essential. Empowering women to set boundaries and make choices that align with their values is critical in fostering a society where every woman's decision is honored and valued. In this new era, supporting women's choices means embracing the diverse and evolving definitions of family.