At Kindred, we want our workplace to be characterized by diversity and inclusiveness, offering an attractive workplace for people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences. We promote equal opportunities across the employee life-cycle, regardless of gender, ability, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation or age. Our diverse workforce is a key success factor that enhances the quality of decision-making and business performance.
In regards of International Women’s Day March 8 we asked eight women within Kindred to share their experiences and advice to other women (and men) in the industry.
Usha Ganesan, Interim Chief Financial Operations Officer
"Take credit for your work and make sure you are recognised for it."
Although society has made tremendous progress with regards to gender equality in the business world, women can sometimes still feel like outsiders in the workplace because of their unique qualities or differences including gender, race or age to name a few. I have learned through the years to fight against this unconscious bias and below are my top 3 tips to you on this important topic that is very close to my heart.
- Be confident and believe in yourself! Take a seat at the table. You have something to offer that is unique and important. Be clear with what you want and go after it. If something is on your mind, don’t let it go, follow your heart and speak up! You deserve answers.
- Enhance your social profile and get networking. Find yourself a mentor to talk things through. You cannot underestimate how powerful this is! It will build your confidence to move forward.
- Take credit for your work and make sure you are recognised for it.
Look at yourself in the mirror every morning and remind yourself of who you are and what you are capable of. You are as good as anyone! Remember, nobody is born into a role or position. You must be given a chance to grow into a role so be confident and grab opportunities when you can!
Prathiba Sadagopan – Head of engineering, Corporate Engineering
"Women are often kinder to others than to themselves."
As a woman and leader, taking moments to reflect is essential, even in our busiest times. Often, we overlook the mental load we carry – all those checklists for home and work, often conflicting in priority bundled together with heavy emotions - only we can free ourselves from this.
So instead of waiting for external empowerment, let us take control of our lives – professionally and personally, pick a destination and move forward. Let us not stand in our own way.
Prerna Choudhary, Performace Engineer, AMO
"Amplify your voice"
In the realm of technology, your voice is not just valuable—it's essential. Don't hesitate to share your insights, ideas, and experiences. Speak up in meetings, contribute to discussions, and take the lead on projects. Embrace the power of your perspective; it can spark innovation and drive positive change. Amplify the voices of other women in tech too, creating an inclusive environment where everyone's contributions are recognized and valued. Remember, your voice has the potential to shape the future of technology and inspire the next generation of female leaders. So, speak boldly, advocate fiercely, and let your voice be heard.
Ina Macaria, Product Engineering Lead, Player Risk Management
"Own your successes"
Your accomplishments do not speak for themselves, share them proudly. When you talk about what you've accomplished, you're not just boosting your own confidence, you're paving the way for others. Your ideas can inspire someone else's breakthrough, and by sharing, you're showing the world what women in tech are capable of. It's simply stating the facts! Own your successes, share your expertise, and watch as you empower yourself and others in the process!
Eleanor Chambers, Internal Communications Manager
"Celebrate other women & empower other women"
In a world where societal norms often pit women against each other and encourage us to engage in the shared mentality that there is not space for all of us to succeed, it’s crucial we rewrite the narrative.
I am therefore resolutely committed to lifting other women up, celebrating our successes, differences, and unique paths. I think it’s so important to hold the door open to other women in any way I can, be it through introducing them to a useful connection, dual mentoring or helping raise their confidence or self-belief by encouraging them towards their goals and celebrating their wins. By empowering other women, we can create a ripple effect of our successes and pave the way for the next generation of women.
Seema Mann, Director Internal Audit & Controls
"Success is not a destination, but a journey"
When I joined Kindred, I had just returned from maternity leave, and I was impressed by the company's culture and values, especially its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. I felt welcomed and supported by my colleagues and managers, and I was able to participate in the Women's network, which is a great platform for sharing perspectives on relevant topics for women in the workplace. Kindred has also invested in my personal and professional growth, by providing me with leadership training and coaching.
Looking back, I have some advice that I would give to my younger self:
- Do not be afraid to ask for what you want, whether it is a promotion, a salary increase, or a seat at the table. The worst that can happen is that you hear "no", but that does not mean that you should give up. Rejection is also a part of the process, and it can help you learn and improve. Always seek feedback and use it to fill the gaps and enhance your strengths.
- surround yourself with strong and positive people, who can support you, challenge you, and inspire you. Find a mentor, or a role model, who can guide you and share their wisdom and experience with you. You can also be a mentor to others and help them grow and succeed.
- Take time for self-reflection, and be honest with yourself about your goals, your strengths, and your areas of improvement. Identify what you are passionate about, what you are good at, and what you want to achieve. Then, create a plan and take action to make it happen. Be flexible and adaptable and embrace change as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Finally, remember that everyone has their own pace and path, and that success is not a destination, but a journey. You are not going to get everything you want, but that does not mean that you should stop trying. Celebrate your achievements, big and small, and be proud of yourself. You have the potential and the power to make a difference.
Sharon Green, Talent Development Partner
"Bravery is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it."
Five Foundations of Fearlessness
- Face your Fears: Grab your pen, write them down—the doubts, the insecurities. Acknowledge them, but don’t let them stop you. Most of our fears are lies we tell ourselves rather than facts based on reality. They’re generated by our own negative thoughts and beliefs.
- Forge a Friendship with yourself: Challenge your thoughts and your inner monologue. Eject that voice that belittles or devalues you. Change your inner voice from your worst critic to your best friend. Use language that cheers you on and encourages you.
- Freedom to fail : Remember no-one has all the answers. Keep moving forward and embrace lessons along the way. Everyone grapples with fear or lack of confidence. So, when you feel that knot in your stomach, it’s complete normal.
- Foster Fortitude: Cultivate a culture of Kindness and Resilience! Surround yourself with cheerleaders and supporters that are positive and nurturing. Be someone’s support system.
- Focus: Business leaders must keep DE&I at the forefront of their strategy to ensure long lasting positive change for the future.
Venelina Chamoun, Global CRE & FM Operational and Compliance Coordinator
"Keep learning every day and be proud of who you are"
Five and a half years ago, I embarked on an exciting journey with Kindred, a journey that has led me to my current role as a Global CRE & FM Operational and Compliance Coordinator. If I could share a piece of advice with other women, it would be this: Keep learning every day and be proud of who you are. Sometimes, we all have moments of doubt. When that happens, I like to remind myself where I was 5 years ago. Back then, I could only dream of being where I am today. This thought always makes me feel stronger and more confident. Remember, your journey is unique and full of achievements. Celebrate how far you've come and know that you can achieve even more in the future.
