International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th to recognise the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world. This year’s theme, #EmbraceEquity, highlights the need to address the gender inequalities that persist in every corner of the globe.
Despite the progress that’s been made in the last century alone, women continue to face significant barriers that limit their opportunities and hinder their ability to fully participate in society. This is particularly true for women from marginalised communities, including women of colour, women with disabilities and LGBTQ+ women.
At Elevate we’re working to break down those barriers, supporting the incredible females within our community. From business leaders to HQ team members, we’ve been speaking to our team to discover their experience as a female within the industry, and what #EmbraceEquity means to them.
Meet Nicola Calica, Staffing Executive at Elevate Global
What is your experience within the events industry?
I started off working in the events industry 10 years ago, working as a brand ambassador at the One Direction Concert in Wembley as my first job. I moved from a brand ambassador to team leader, then AEM to EM working on huge events including Lego in Covent Garden. I worked on a huge range of programmes including Sky VIP at Goodwood festival, never experienced an event like that! It was one of the most rewarding things that i’ve ever done.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity to me means justice and fairness. Ensuring that people are treated impartially.
What’s the best example of female equity in the workplace that you’ve experienced?
I am very fortunate that throughout my career I’ve had managers and team members that appreciate my contributions to the wider community. At Elevate, Nat put me forward to work on a campaign to address period poverty in the UK, ensuring young girls including school age have access to menstruation products, something I felt very strongly about.
Since working in the office, due to personal circumstances, I’ve been allowed time off and to start later. I’ve been really supported with changes that are currently happening in my life by all team members in head office and I really appreciate that.
What change do you think the industry needs to support females?
As human beings, we should be ensuring that we’re providing the space for everybody to be empowered, feel supported and be listened to.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve received?
Use two screens to work smarter not harder! Feeling supported in the workplace is vital, and I’m here to ensure that everyone who works for Elevate, both internally and out in the field, feels as supported as I do.
On this International Women’s Day, let us all commit to #EmbracingEquity and work towards a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
- Elevate Global
