NAWIC and Lysander amplify commitment to gender diversity with focus on Male Allies in Construction
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has been a pivotal advocate for women in the construction industry, a sector that has traditionally been male populated. Through dedicated initiatives and insightful research, NAWIC has addressed the many persistent challenges often faced by women in the sector. Expanding on this crucial work, NAWIC has recently partnered with Lysander to further champion gender diversity and inclusion, now turning the lens towards engaging Male Allies in this transformative journey.
Kerrie Adaway, CEO of Lysander, emphasises the significance of this partnership: "Our collaboration with NAWIC is not just about continuing the conversation on gender diversity; it's about actively involving men in this dialogue and empowering them to become part of the solution. By developing Male Allies together with NAWIC, we're taking a crucial step towards creating a construction industry where inclusivity is the norm, not the exception."
This collaboration introduces the Male Allies Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at mobilising men to actively participate in breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality in the workplace. Understanding that awareness alone is insufficient, this program calls for action and support from men who are crucial to advancing these goals. Women continue to encounter significant obstacles in professional settings, and achieving a truly diverse and inclusive workplace needs a concerted effort from all, particularly from men who are in positions to foster change.
The Male Allies Program includes five digital modules developed by Lysander in consultation with NAWIC that provide theoretical knowledge about the dynamics of gender equality. Complementing this learning, Lysander offers a practical half-day workshop designed to turn theory into action. This workshop not only equips participants with actionable strategies but also serves as a dynamic forum for male allies to commit to meaningful changes within their organisations.
“Our collaboration with NAWIC is not just about continuing the conversation on gender diversity; it’s about actively involving men in this dialogue and empowering them to become part of the solution.”
The program is tailored for any man committed to improving the workplace for women, including managers, team leaders, and individual contributors. It is ideally suited for those who are eager to lead efforts in promoting gender equity, diversity, and inclusion. Participants are guided to understand their critical role in fostering an inclusive environment and are provided with proven methods to help them succeed.
Both NAWIC and Lysander are dedicated to creating a construction industry where gender diversity is not just aspired to but achieved. By including men as active partners in advocating for equality, this partnership underscores the belief that a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace benefits everyone and enhances the overall health and productivity of the industry. This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards a construction sector where everyone’s talents and potential are recognised and nurtured.
NAWIC’s Male Allies Program will be launching on the 26th of July 2024. For more information around the program or on how to register, please visit: https://nawic.com.au/Site/Events/Courses-and-Education/Male-Allies-Program.aspx