Five takeaways from Leaders Meet: Women in Sport in partnership with Facebook

We’re delighted to sponsor the important Leaders Meet: Diversity series in partnership with Facebook, which is aimed at accelerating the pace of change within sport. Our Head of Inclusion and Diversity, Katie De Paoli, joined the Leaders Meet: Women in Sport in partnership with Facebook event, created to not only celebrate diversity, but inspire the next generation of female sport executives. She shares her five takeaways.

1. Fix the system, not the workforce

Sue Day, Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Rugby Football Union, highlighted how we need to work on a systemic change when it comes to achieving gender equality.

Obviously, there is nothing ‘wrong’ with women in the global workforce or with any underrepresented group for that matter. We don’t need to simply ‘fix’ women by giving them training or coaching. What we do need to do is better understand any challenges with the system that may lead to inequality.

2. Inclusion first

Dr. Elisavet Manoli, Independent Director of Marketing and Commercial British Handball Association, had a similar point of view. She said: “Diversity is a reality, whereas inclusion is really something you need to work on.”

I strongly agree with this and would add that we need to work on making diversity work truly and fully because it leads to different ideas, approaches, and points of view. The result is creativity, innovation, better problem solving, and so much more.

This is why at Deltatre we focus on achieving inclusion first, and then we believe diversity will follow. It’s why we invest in creating an environment where each and every one of us feels valued, respected, and encouraged to perform to their full potential.

3. Spread the word

People who are determined to push for change will not be silenced. Leaders Meet: Women in Sport is a forum for many inspirational people who take every opportunity to make their voice heard in many different ways.

I joined the event via live stream, which meant that people across the globe could join the conversation. It was great to be in a room; albeit virtually, with so many inspiring people who are making a real difference.

4. Take control

I was lucky enough to attend the Hands Up Lean In Circle, organized by Leaders in partnership with Wasserman. The initiative highlights the importance of equality and finding a balance to better benefit us all.

It was named Hands Up to inspire people to take ownership of their future by not being afraid to put their hands up and take responsibility for building a better future. The whole session was around leadership values and how these are crucial and relevant to everybody in the company, no matter their gender.

5. Work together

We are all people making our way through our personal and professional lives together. It’s important to look at any shared values rather than focus on our differences. If you understand what values are important to the people in your team then this will allow you to work together more effectively.

Did you attend Leaders Meet: Diversity? Let us know your learnings on Twitter or LinkedIn.