TGM WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
TGM x IWD 2024: HERstory - Katarzyna
Katarzyna's insights for International Women's Day align with this year's theme of #InspireInclusion, amplifying the importance of diversity and empowerment.
Hello Kasia! Thank you for joining us today. As we approach International Women’s Day, we’re eager to hear from inspiring individuals like yourself. Could you please take a moment to introduce yourself?
Yes of course! Hello everyone, my name is Katarzyna Pytka and I’m a Senior Client Service Manager at TGM Research. Thank you for inviting me today, I am a bit nervous but very honored and excited to be here.
Thank you, Kasia. Alright… let’s get started!
First question: How do you think attitudes and perspectives toward gender equality have evolved over the years? Has it gotten better or worse?
No doubt things have changed when it comes to how we see gender equality, but it’s been a bit of a slow ride. Back in the day, women were kind of boxed into these traditional roles, you know, mostly stuck doing housework and not given much of a shot at careers. Over time, people are starting to see that value in everyone having equal opportunities. We’re seeing more people speaking up for change and questioning old-school ideas about what men and women should be doing. So… yes. Progress is happening, just taking its sweet time!
Who are some women, historical or contemporary, who have inspired you, and why?
It's not just women with international careers who can be considered inspiring. We don't have to look for historical or famous women here. Inspiring women are often around us; they are our grandmothers, mothers, sisters, and friends. An inspiring woman for me is my mom. She raised 5 children, and each of us has a good life because she taught us that we can achieve anything we want but must take responsibility for our actions. I admire her for her ease in establishing contact with people, and I try to follow her example.
Do you think having a IWD is important? In what ways do you believe IWD contributes to global conversations and actions towards gender equality?
Yes absolutely, I believe that having an International Women's Day is important because it provides a platform to raise awareness about the issues that women face globally and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in various fields. By getting people talking about these issues, it’s a chance to mobilize individuals and organizations to take action. Also, IWD provides an opportunity for women to come together, share their experiences, and support each other in their fight for equality. When we see other women kicking butt and making waves, it’s empowering for sure!
What challenges do you foresee in the ongoing pursuit of gender equality?
Gender roles and stereotypes have been ingrained in societies for centuries, so I don’t think it will be easy to change traditional mindsets and beliefs. Women often get the short end of the stick when it comes to jobs and money, which just keeps the cycle of inequality going. And it’s not just about gender – there’s all this other aspect like race, class, and ethnicity, making it even harder to level the playing field. I think it’s going to take some serious dedication and teamwork to achieve gender equality but it will be worth it at the end of the day.
Has TGM actively worked to inspire inclusion within the organization?
Yes, I believe so! TGM has been actively and is actively working to inspire inclusion within the organization since the beginning.
What measures have been taken to create a more inclusive environment for all team members?
There is equality at TGM, which means that as women, we have access to management positions. There are many development opportunities, and pay is based on performance, not gender, ethnicity, orientation, or socio-economic status. To support work-life balance, TGM also offers flexible working hours and the possibility of remote work, which allows many women to reconcile professional and private roles. TGM employs women regardless of their stage of life and plans for starting a family. TGM respectfully and seamlessly supports mothers both during and after pregnancy. It facilitates the return to duties and supports in crisis situations, where flexibility in fulfilling duties and working hours is irreplaceable.
What other measures should be employed?
Continuing to support the culture of implementing gender equality and supporting women's self-development through additional training and an open career path. Challenging cultural and social norms that exacerbate discrimination based on gender and socioeconomic status.
Thank you for your sharing Kasia!