International Women’s Day: Celebrating Inclusion
International Women’s Day marks a time to reflect on the achievements of women and the ongoing journey towards gender equality. For Debrand, this day is particularly significant as a company that is female-led and actively aims to foster environments where women’s voices are heard, valued and included. True creativity, innovation, and success can only be achieved through a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we asked team members to share their thoughts on why this day is important to them or statements on how they aim to action further positive change. These quotes are a valuable reflection of how our team is dedicated to inspiring inclusion.
“Inclusion in both work and life has played an integral role in where I am today. I strive to provide other women with that support and inclusion, while continuing to challenge gender stereotypes, discrimination & bias.”
-Amelia Eleiter, CEO + Co-Founder
“A corporate culture in which women are encouraged and supported to speak up, be heard, and be valued is the only place I’ll ever work.”
-Wes Baker, Co-Founder + SVP of Strategic Initiatives
“I aim to inspire inclusion by using my passions to make the world a better place for women to thrive.”
-Katie Capozzi, Key Account Manager
“International Women’s Day celebrates resilience, empowerment, and boundless potential – let’s continue to maintain an inclusive mindset!”
-Simone Maack, Executive Assistant + Office Manager
“I want to ensure that womxn’s rights are practised on a global scale, particularly those working in the fashion industry throughout the various stages of the supply chain.”
-Lina Londono, VP of Sustainability + Solutions
“From my perspective as a male, I recognize that there are countless situations – business meetings, running after dusk, and solo travelling to name a few – that I may take for granted, wherein women often face unique insecurity simply because of their gender. I see this as an opportunity for myself and all men to offer attentiveness, inclusion, and solicited support, to help foster a fairer and happier world for women.”
-Imre Mihalik, Integrated Marketing Specialist
“Inclusion for women is not just a matter of equity; it’s a strategic imperative for achieving business success, political stability, and social harmony.”
-Todd Hounsell, VP of Growth
“I aim to inspire inclusion by respecting and understanding women and their various needs/desires.”
-Salma Abouel-enin, Finance + Sales Coordinator
“I celebrate and advocate for the inclusion of womxn this and every day, for we cannot reach a just, sustainable, and equitable future without them.”
Christa Clay, Project Manager, VAS
“I aim to inspire inclusion by fostering a safe space for all women to feel seen, heard, understood, and that they belong. I’ll honour and uphold their intersectional identities and diverse life experiences that shape their day-to-day so that they can show up as their most authentic selves, and drive opportunities to further equity-building wherever I can.”
-Melanie Mok, Director of Marketing
“I aim to inspire inclusion by challenging gender norms through fashion, by participating in male-dominated sports, by being my feminine self while simultaneously changing the battery in my car. Women can do it all.”
-Natalie Helm, Account Manager
“Empowering women isn’t just about giving them a seat at the table; it’s about ensuring they have a voice that’s heard, respected and included amongst those seated at that table.”
-Michelle Zunino, Marketing Coordinator