Ringardas Nigeria Limited joined the rest of the world on 8th March 2023, to celebrate its smart, brave, and wonderful women for their huge contributions to the Company on International Women’s Day. The theme for this year’s event is “Embrace Equity”. The event, which kicked off live at the Head Office in Abuja, had RNL ladies join virtually across 5 locations. A total number of 34 women united to celebrate IWD together.
The Managing Director of Ringardas and Special Guest Mr. Dave Van Den BULCK, congratulated the women and highlighted their exemplary lifestyles through dedication, sacrifice, and contributions towards the growth of Ringardas over the years.
He assured them that the company recognizes the challenges women face at work and home and is keen on supporting them in the best ways possible to thrive and attain their family and career goals.
He thanked the Corporate Affairs Manager Mrs. Nana Shaibu for organizing the event on behalf of Management.
Our guest speaker, Lady Tonia Omeneke Ihiezu who spoke on Gender Inequality, said the place of women from the creation of mankind has been that of providing support and help, however, the narrative is changing, and women are now more actively involved in playing important roles in the world like those of men. Thus, the reference to women as the weaker sex could psychologically affect their health, career, education, and even social life.
She mentioned causes of gender inequality in women as, uneven access to modern education, lack of employment equality in our societies, Job segregation due to societal mindsets, and the insufficient legal framework set in place to tackle gender discrimination and harassment against women and make it an offense punishable by law.
To prevent gender inequality in the workplace, she advised organizations to create social protection programs to raise awareness against gender-based violence and discrimination and establish strict disciplinary measures against unnecessary embarrassment and humiliation of women.
In her conclusion, Lady Tonia advocated for legislative support to be in place and ensure that employers take reasonable steps to enthrone equity and prevent sexual harassment, and discrimination of women in the workplace. Also, the Government and private organizations must be part of the national and international frameworks to tackle gender discrimination and harassment against women and make it an offense punishable by law.
She then admonished the women to be courageous, to speak up, and not be afraid. They should say no to oppression and the fear of being judged by others. Don’t give up, because you too can achieve your goals as a woman.