Eunice Ezeoke, President of Women in Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, delivered a powerful address at the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference in Nairobi, emphasizing the urgent need for gender equality in the workplace. Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Ezeoke stressed that organizations must establish fair treatment for all staff, regardless of gender.
During her address, Ezeoke shed light on second-generation gender bias, discussing the subtle but impactful biases that hinder women’s advancement in the workplace. She cited examples such as describing leadership traits in masculine terms and reluctance to mentor women due to societal perceptions. Ezeoke emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing these biases to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Ezeoke’s address has sparked conversations about the role of men in advocating for gender equality and inclusion. She called for the development of strategies to create inclusive corporate environments that foster the development, advancement, and retention of female talent. Her address resonated with many attendees, sparking discussions on how to address gender disparities in various industries.
Advocating for the importance of STEM education for women and girls, Ezeoke highlighted the need for educational curricula to embrace STEM education. She stated that STEM education is essential for the future of any country, as it unlocks the potential for innovation and equips women with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world driven by technological advancements.
Ezeoke’s call to action has sparked conversations about the role of STEM education in empowering women and girls globally.