Breaking the bias

Thank you to everyone that made it to our International Women’s Day event on Tuesday 29 March. Each year we’re proud to host such an inclusive event that celebrates the women in our community and brings people from across the Phoenix area together. 180 people attended our first event at The Green Man since the start of the pandemic.

Phoenix Director of Property and New Business, Lesley Johnson said: “From working for 35 years in a traditionally male-dominated field, I understand first-hand the need to break gender biases, how difficult it can be and why events like this are so important to celebrate the women who are making change in our community. I was thrilled to have so many people join us at the Green Man and hear from interesting and motivational speakers about their experience.”

This year’s event focused on the theme of #BreakingTheBias – creating a gender-equal world by breaking down biases, stereotypes, and discrimination against women.

The event was kicked off in style with talks given by our inspirational speakers: Shenazz Chenia, CEO of YouthBuild talked about her experience of being one of few women to work in the construction industry and how YouthBuild are supporting under-privileged and vulnerable young people gain a career in construction. Inspiring Vanessa gave a talk on her experiences of facing racial, age and gender biases and what we can do to break them.

Our Roots into Work team and Energy Champion Sharon O’Connor were on hand giving expert advice on how to get the career of your dreams and save money on your energy bills. We also had Community Chest winners #WellBEin handing out free wellbeing packs with hygiene and sanitary products.

Participants were also treated to free massages, manicures and health ‘MOTs’, as well as free fish and chips and healthy snacks, balloon modelling and face painting.

Don’t forget to make room in your diary for the Phoenix Festival which returns after a COVID hiatus on Saturday 14 May, 12-5pm. Look out for more information on our website, social media and in the May issue of the Phoenix Flyer.