Ignite and Empower #IWD2022

One way to build diversity is to have presentations and events in languages other than English.

I got kicked out of high school French regularly – it was like math in my brain – but I have a deep appreciation for those that speak multiple languages.

I remember saying after Trista's presentation, "All the feels!"

I have been writing and rewriting my story for years as I break free from storylines others have written for me.

Charlie was up next. There were a few technical glitches which resulted in gales of uproarious laughter. You would think after 2 years of Zoom we would all be experts. Alas, this was not the case. But no matter and no rattle – on we pushed and Charlie presented in English and swear. Charlie had sought some ideas from our team and settled on presenting the bias that comes along with being a "uterus owner". We quickly learned that this could be an entire presentation on its own. 

From periods to the menopause, to maternity leaves, to breast feeding, women have juggled their biology, whilst building careers, and facing bias and hurdles along this journey.

Iram closed the loop by exploring implicit bias and ways to acknowledge this bias in our own thinking and how to break this bias. Growing a more diverse learning network and looking for folks who do not always look like or think like us and inviting these folks into our lives are a couple of ways to challenge our own personal bias'. Iram had some tech difficulties as well but persevered. We noticed that she has been invited to write a blog on her presentation and we really hope that she accepts the challenge.

I know that I have been acknowledging my own bias and working through these, and that it is an uncomfortable and disruptive process.

I was so grateful to share the screen with Melissa, Trista, Charlie, Iram and Rita as well as our 21 (or so) guests. 

We had some repeat disruptors who have attended past events and some new faces as well. 

There is always such a feeling of togetherness and empowerment at these events and I feel energized.

Thanks to those who attended and we look forward to being together IRL soon!

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