IN commemoration of the recently celebrated International Women’s Day, Guinness Nigeria Plc has advocated inclusivity and gender equality in workplace and the society at large.
Under the theme: ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ the 2024 International Women’s Day campaign echoes the significance of diversity and empowerment across all sectors.
Through its Spirited Women’s Network, Guinness Nigeria Plc spearheads initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering female employees. Since its inception in 2018, this programme has provided vital support and mentorship opportunities, nurturing a conducive environment for growth and development. To date, the Spirited Women’s Network has impacted hundreds of female employees, with a 30 percent increase in female representation in leadership roles.
Speaking at the International Women’s Day event hosted at the Guinness Nigeria headquarters in Lagos, Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria, Adebayo Alli, reiterated the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion. He highlighted the transformative impact of the Spirited Women’s Network and emphasised the importance of creating an environment where every individual can thrive.
“Our commitment to inclusivity is not just rhetoric; it’s a fundamental aspect of our organisational culture,” remarked Mr. Alli. “From lactation rooms to progressive benefits like paid pregnancy loss leave and fully paid six months’ maternity leave, we strive to support our female workforce at every step of their journey. In addition, we have implemented training programs aimed at enhancing the leadership skills of our female employees, resulting in a 25 percent increase in women in leadership positions over the past three years.”
The event featured a keynote address by Executive Chair, African Food Changemakers & Trustee, The Rockefeller Foundation, Mrs. Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, who emphasised the importance of creating supportive communities for women’s growth. She said: “In our journey towards success, creating supportive communities is paramount. However, let us remember that the path to success is not always smooth. It requires constant self-improvement and resilience. Together, as we uplift and empower one another, let us embrace the challenges ahead, for they are the rungs on the ladder of our collective growth.”
Additionally, a panel discussion titled: ‘Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress’ underscored the necessity of investing in women to drive societal advancement. The panel session, moderated by Opeyemi Makinwa, Head of Reserves, Guinness Nigeria, delved into various aspects of women’s empowerment and featured esteemed panelists including Ijeoma Taylaur, Executive Director, AAA Limited, Rolake Akinkungbe-Filani, GM & Group Head, Investor Relations & Corporate Development, Zenith Bank Pc, Dolapo Oshiegbu, Site Director (Ogba brewery), Guinness Nigeria Plc and Adebayo Alli, Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc.
The panelists highlighted the need for the society to be intentional in investing in women, noting that a society without the full engagement of women cannot thrive properly. They emphasized the importance of raising the girl-child to become confident women and discussed strategies for accelerating progress towards gender equality.
Guinness Nigeria’s commitment to diversity extends beyond internal initiatives, with collaborations and partnerships that promote gender equality. Through programs like the Diageo Bar Academy (DBA) and Plan-W that would have benefitted 1,400 women by the middle of this year, the company empowers women with training and resources, fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect. To date, the DBA program has trained over 100 female bartenders, providing them with opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
In collaboration with local communities and non-profit organizations, Guinness Nigeria continues to support initiatives that empower women and girls, demonstrating its dedication to positively impacting society. Through partnerships with organizations like SightSavers, Guinness Nigeria has provided financial support, mentorship, and access to educational and vocational training programs, benefiting over 1,000 women and girls across the country.
As Guinness Nigeria Plc leads the charge for inclusion this International Women’s Day, it sets an inspiring example for businesses and communities alike, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion at every opportunity.
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