TheCable

As part of efforts aimed at driving inclusion in the workplace, Unilever Nigeria held a panel discussion session themed “Equity is” to celebrate International Women’s Day.

The event which was held at the company’s Head Office in Lagos brought together leading career women, experts, and advocates to discuss the importance of equity in achieving gender equality. It served as an opportunity to reinforce the company’s unwavering support for more women-driven initiatives and policies.

Declaring the event open, the Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Tim Kleinebenne, stated that Unilever Nigeria as a company remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing gender equity and empowering women in the workplace, marketplace, and community. “Through various initiatives and partnerships, we would continue to support the advancement of women in the workplace. We believe strongly in playing our part in building a more equitable society by championing initiatives that foster diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all.” He said.

Speaking at the panel session, The Chief Executive Officer, Wakanow Nigeria, Adenike Macaulay, explained that women must be ready to support one another to engender inclusion in the workplace and society. “We must be intentional in our support for the next woman. As women, we have to be our cheerleaders. We need to give every woman a voice.”

Other members of the panel discussion, the Head of Trade at the Royal Danish Consulate General, Jette Bjerrum, Marketing Head, Beauty and Wellbeing, and Personal Care, Unilever Nigeria, Oiza Gyang and Executive Assistant, Human Resources Director, Unilever West Africa, and 3P Specialist Opemipo Oyejola, alluded to the fact that the journey to achieving equity for the female gender is a continuous one. Everyone must be a part of it to make it a reality for every woman.

The Human Resources Director for Unilever West Africa, Mr. Ola Ehinmoro, mentioned that Unilever Nigeria has been taking intentional steps to drive equity in the workplace for female employees. ”We have policies that include, Maternal and Paternal Leave, Menstrual Leave, Lactation & Crèche Facilities, Hybrid Working Model, People with Special abilities, and Engagement initiatives. While most of the policies cover all employees, special attention is given to female gender as part of making the workplace as comfortable as it can be for them.” He said.

L-R: Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc., Tim Kleinebenne; Chief Executive Officer, Wakanow Nigeria, Adenike Macaulay; Marketing Head, Beauty and Wellbeing and Personal Care, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Oiza Gyang; Consul General, Head of Trade, Royal Danish Consulate General, Lagos, Jette Bjerrum; Executive Assistant, Human Resources Director, Unilever West Africa, Opemipo Oyejola and National Finance Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Folake Ogundipe during the celebration of 2024 International Women’s Day at the Unilever Nigeria HQ in Lagos.