Women’s empowerment and the women behind The Scalers
Women’s Empowerment — two words that have emerged as part of a major global movement, continuing to break new ground in recent years.
Traditionally, ‘women’s empowerment’ was defined as accepting and bringing in women who were on the outside of the decision-making process. However, in recent times, the term is associated with women who simply choose to control their own strategic life choices and live life on their own terms, — allowing them to fully realise their capabilities.
On the occasion of Women’s Day, the Consulate General of France in Bangalore organised a discussion on the topic of empowerment of women in politics, governance, and entrepreneurship. Our CEO, Emilien Coquard, was invited to join the panel and present his thoughts on women’s empowerment in the business, tech, and the IT space.
Here are a few excerpts from the discussion:
Q. What does women’s empowerment mean to you?
Emilien: Growing up, I was surrounded by strong women, especially my mother. As a man, I can never truly understand or relate to what life as a woman must be like or what struggles they go through on a day-to-day basis.
At The Scalers, we have 70% of women in upper management. And so, when I was preparing to attend this discussion, I asked a few of my female colleagues their thoughts on women’s empowerment, and I have to say that it was very insightful and inspiring at the same time.
I think the bottom line is that women must be included — in conversations, in the decision-making process, and life, in general.
Q. Should women’s empowerment be brought about through Government policies, or must businesses take responsibility?
Emilien: I believe that it’s important for organisations to create policies that promote an equal playing field and ensure that the same opportunities are available for women.
And speaking of Government policies, in 2011, the French Government introduced a policy that said 40% of the board of directors in a company must be women. While this was controversial and sparked many conversations, thanks to that law, 44% of seats on company boards are now held by women.
So I think that both businesses and the Government must take equal responsibility.
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Q. What’s the best thing and worst thing you’ve seen about female empowerment around you?
Emilien: If you take a set of candidates who are appearing for an interview, look at their skills and experience, and take gender out of the equation, there is literally no difference. Skill level doesn’t recognise gender, so I believe everyone must be given an equal opportunity. In fact, hiring women in top management positions can inspire and empower others to take risks and achieve their dreams. And I think that’s a great thing!
However, it’s important to not be gender blind. Rather, be gender inclusive. Gender– blindness can be harmful because it can further gender inequalities. But gender awareness and gender inclusivity, especially in the workplace, ensure that one does not discriminate against a particular sex or perpetuate gender stereotypes.
Meet the women behind The Scalers
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we asked the women of The Scalers, ‘What is your superpower?‘. And here’s what some of them had to say:
