Breaking boundaries and building bridges for women in the workplace

A new group to support women in the workplace has been launched by Essex Business School.

The dynamic collective is a testament to the power of unity and advocacy, as members come together to champion gender equality and empowerment in the workplace.

At its core, the Women's Working Group serves as a catalyst for change, striving to dismantle barriers and foster an environment where women can thrive professionally and personally.

Through a variety of initiatives and activities, the group endeavours to address the unique challenges faced by women in the workforce and pave the way for meaningful transformation.

The Women’s Working Group was set up by Teresa Alvarez, Student Services Advisor, Marcia Christina Ferreira, Senior Lecturer in Management and Marketing, and Anna Sarkisyan, Senior Lecturer in Banking and Finance.

One of the group’s key objectives is to provide a supportive and secure space for women to share their experiences, aspirations, and concerns. Through open dialogue and mutual support, members can forge connections, gain insights, and find solidarity in their shared journey towards equality.

Teresa Alvarez said: “We want women in Essex Business School to have a network which makes a difference to them. We want women to feel heard, supported and understood.

“People may forget what you say and do, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

The Women's Working Group is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting discussions on critical issues affecting women in the workplace. From tackling stereotypes and biases to advocating for policies that promote diversity and inclusion, the group is committed to driving substantive change at both the organisational and societal levels.

But the group's impact extends beyond the confines of the School’s walls. By engaging with female alumni and forging connections with external partners, the Women's Working Group seeks to amplify its reach and influence, inspiring change on a broader scale and empowering women across industries and sectors.

Anna Sarkisyan said: “We hope that the Women’s Working Group will provide a platform for female staff, students, and alumni at Essex Business School to share their experiences, to raise awareness and foster positive change, and to inspire and get inspired by each other.”

Through collaboration, advocacy, and collective action, the Women's Working Group embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, demonstrating that together, there can be a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality.

Christina Ferreira said: “Women, transgender, and gender non-conforming people have unique career paths, and we can overcome challenges better by working together.”

The working group - which is open to all staff and students at EBS - was launched on International Women’s Day in March.

For more information, or to get involved, contact the co-chairs Teresa Alvarez, Christina Ferreira, or Anna Sarkisyan.

This story was written by student Frontrunner Tooba Mirza.