International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day to recognise and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.
That is why this year’s theme for International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action. It calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face.
At Optio, we have spoken to some of our female colleagues on what International Women’s Day means to them.
What does this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” mean to you personally and professionally?
Huda Zabadneh, Administration Manager, Optio Re Mena: ‘Accelerate Action’ means taking the initiative, being proactive, and driving meaningful progress both personally and professionally. It encourages me to set clear goals, continuously learn and step out of my comfort zone. Professionally, it inspires me to be results-driven, collaborate effectively and seek innovative solutions. It’s about turning ideas into action and making a real impact.
Insi Davenport, Chief Risk Officer: The theme of ‘Accelerate Action’ is an important one. Personally, it feels like things are not moving fast enough to make lasting change and, in some respects, change has gone backwards, especially in some parts of the world. I have boy / girl twins and I am passionate that they should both have the same opportunities in life. Professionally, I am fortunate to work in a company that is forward thinking. However, the industry needs to stop waiting for things to change on their own and instead accelerate efforts that dismantle barriers and pave the way for greater opportunities for women everywhere.
Fay Little, HR Officer: ‘Accelerate Action’ means that we need to be more proactive than reactive. Speed up the change by taking big steps and actions. While the insurance industry has changed a lot in the last 10 years, it’s time to actively make changes and encourage inclusivity. I like the quote “Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance”
What progress have you seen in gender equality during your career, and what excites you about the future?
Zemfira Knott, Director, Northcourt: Throughout my career, I have witnessed significant progress in gender equality, yet there is still a long way to go. According to the United Nations, no country in the world has fully achieved gender equality, and at the current rate, it could take another 300 years to reach this goal. My concern is that the current geopolitical climate may undermine the hard-won progress made so far.
Davenport: Over the course of my financial services career, I have seen strides in gender equality. There are more women with leadership roles and there is more emphasis on diversity and inclusion. For the future, I hope that the rise of mentorship and advocacy for women in male-dominated industries will continue to pave the way for future generations to thrive. I am excited to see future generations being vocal, shining a light on inequality and demanding equality by using their voices loud and proud.
Paula Medcalf, HR Director: Senior Managers, both male and female are welcoming back women from maternity leave, recognising that we should be encouraging new mothers to come back, even on a part time basis, so we are not losing their valuable skill sets.
Kelly Hedges, SDI Underwriter: I have seen many women promoted into underwriting roles in construction over the last several years. I am also meeting more and more women who have a seat at the table at the construction firms that we insure.
Have you faced any challenges as a woman in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Hannah Greaves, Head of Underwriting Management Team: After taking 12 months off to have my first child, the challenges women face in their careers have become deeply personal. This was reinforced by shocking statistics from Pregnant Then Screwed: 74,000 women in the UK lose their jobs each year due to pregnancy or maternity leave –a 37% rise since 2016. The system is failing mothers, with rigid workplace structures and the demonisation of remote work putting them at an unfair disadvantage. Karren Brady’s recent Diary of a CEO interview highlighted that57,000 women returning from maternity leave face redundancy or workplace bullying within a year. Even in supportive environments, re-entering the workforce after such a transformative life event is challenging. It’s disheartening that these barriers persist, not just for mothers but for companies losing valuable talent. Words are not enough; it’s time for real, meaningful change.
Davenport: Like many women in insurance, I have my share of awful stories from when I started 28 years ago. As a South Indian woman, I faced underestimation and racial stereotypes more often than I naively expected. Unconscious bias made things harder, but I was fortunate to build strong networks and find mentors, both men and women, who believed in me. By focusing on my expertise and advocating for myself, I let my actions speak louder than bias.
What do you think is the most impactful way to empower women in the workplace?
Nina Evans, Head of Compliance: Equal pay and opportunities. If we are not in the room, we are not involved in the conversation.
Zabadneh: The most impactful way to empower women in the workplace is through strong mentorship, equal growth opportunities and an inclusive culture. Providing leadership support, fostering skill development and ensuring fair recognition help women thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.
Medcalf: Role modelling and leading by example are essential, as is actively listening to everyone’s experiences and challenges. By understanding these issues, we can ensure our company avoids repeating them and fosters a more inclusive environment.
What advice would you give to the next generation of women in your industry?
Knott: My advice to the next generation of women is to dream big and work hard towards your career ambitions. Never stop learning – whether through courses, online resources, or educational YouTube videos. Most importantly, uplift and support other women along the way.
Zabadneh: Believe in your abilities, stay confident and never hesitate to take on new challenges. Seek mentorship, continuously learn and advocate for yourself. Hard work, resilience and a supportive network will help you grow and succeed in your career.
Davenport: Be persistent. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If there isn’t a chair at the leadership table, sit on the floor, show your worth and demand a chair. I echo Sheryl Sandberg - “In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders.” and that is my sincere hope for both my daughter and the next generation of leaders.
Medcalf: Be bold and don’t let others make you doubt yourself. Work on your confidence and make sure you stand up for yourself and what you believe in. Stay humble and learn from your mistakes and the experiences around you.
Evans: Keep pushing and do it loudly and unashamedly!
Little: Don’t compare yourself to others, your path is your path, and it doesn’t have to be a straight line. Support and build up other women around you and expect the same in return. Don’t let people’s biases define how successful you are.