International Women’s Day 2022 (part 1)

Imagine a gender equal world, the International Women’s Day organisers ask of us. ‘A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.’

The five Change Makers podcast interviewees below not only believe that gender parity is possible but they are also making changes that ensures this ambition remains in sight, and is coming ever closer.

How to ensure women are taken as seriously as men

Her latest book has been described as “a credible roadmap capable of taking women from the margins to the centre”. For political journalist, broadcast and author Mary Ann Sieghart, breaking the bias is front and centre of the work that she does. The Authority Gap sets out to demonstrate that no matter the person or profile, the gender gap is perpetuated by systemic perceptions of women’s authoritative ability. Mary Ann talked to host Michael Hayman not only about a diagnosis of the problem but also a prescription of the change we need to see, as part of the Change Makers collaboration with University of London’s School of Advanced Study which explores the ways in which Covid-19 has changed us as a society.

Today, Mary Ann makes programmes for BBC Radio 4, is a Visiting Professor at King’s College London and is a trustee of a portfolio of organisations and charities. She was a senior editor and columnist at The Times for 20 years and has extensive TV and radio experience, both in presenting and in appearing as a guest.

Listen to Mary Ann’s Change Makers episode here and follow her @MASieghart 

How to be the first

“In every job I’ve done, I’ve been the first woman ever to do it… You’ve got to be courageous; not only embracing the trailblazing but also bringing your own take on it.” In 2016 Leena Nair was appointed the first female, first Asian and youngest ever Chief Human Res