Gender equality is a basic, fundamental human right. However, according to the United Nations (UN), over half the global population still faces gender-based economic, social, and legal discrimination.

While the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 aims to bridge that gap and create equal rights, safety, opportunities, and representation for all genders, a sustainable future is not possible unless it is built upon equity.

Developing and amplifying that equity was the topic of our Founder and Executive Chairman, Dato’ Sri Vijay Eswaran’s ‘Equal Space 2.0’ discussion in conjunction with Women’s History Month in March. The series, streamed on Facebook Live for the first time, explores experiences, perspectives, and constructive ways to create a more gender-equal space in the workplace and beyond.

Dato’ Sri Vijay was joined by co-moderator and Head of Talent Management at QI Group, Shaheen Lakdawalla; Irmak Sutcu, Marketing and Communications Manager, QNET Turkey; John Agama, Head of Global Public Relations, QNET; and Vishal Reekhaye, Senior Data Analytics Lead, QNET Hong Kong.

Dato’ Sri Vijay posed several thought-provoking questions around this year’s International Women’s Day theme, #BreakTheBias. Later, the group also answered several questions from the audience.

The roundtable discussion centred on how men can be engaged in the advancement of women’s equality, rights, and opportunities and how diversity and inclusion remain ever-important in ensuring gender equality.

The talk also highlighted unlearning patriarchy, understanding feminism, putting an end to gender stereotypes, and how organisations can promote equal opportunities. The group enlivened the discussion by drawing from their personal and professional experiences.

Watch the complete episode in the video below: