emirates7 - Anna Kaminski, Neurodiversity Specialist Consultant at The Butterfly and CEO and Founder of NeuroKinds, delivered a compelling session titled “Transforming Challenges into Achievements: Women of Determination in the Workplace” at the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024.
The session delved into the unique strengths of determination exhibited by women and the critical systemic changes required to cultivate inclusive workplaces.
Kaminski began by presenting eye-opening statistics, noting that 15% of the global population lives with a disability, with 80% of these being invisible. Disabilities, she explained, span a wide range, including physical, sensory, medical, intellectual, psychological, and neurodevelopmental conditions, with most being acquired during a person’s lifetime.
"Despite these figures, stereotypes and biases remain prevalent," she remarked. "Women of Determination are often overlooked for leadership roles and relegated to entry-level positions due to assumptions that they require extensive support or cannot succeed."
She emphasized that fostering inclusivity often involves straightforward accommodations. "A ramp for wheelchair access or standing desks for employees with ADHD can significantly enhance workplace accessibility," she said. "It’s not about overhauling entire systems but addressing specific needs to ensure equity and opportunity. Equity means fair treatment tailored to individual needs, and company leadership must set an example by promoting inclusivity."
Kaminski also highlighted the gender disparity in disability statistics, pointing out that according to the UN, 1 in 5 women has a disability, compared to 1 in 8 men. She attributed this disparity to women’s increased vulnerability to discrimination due to lower levels of financial, legal, and societal power.
She explored the broader societal and cultural challenges faced by women of determination, including pervasive biases and limited access to resources. In many cultures, girls are perceived as less capable than boys, particularly in environments where men are expected to be primary earners. These perceptions restrict opportunities and perpetuate systemic discrimination. Women of Determination also face higher risks of mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, often stemming from exclusion and stigma.
Kaminski urged the need to change perceptions and embrace differences, advocating for inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated. She called on organizations to adopt strong policies, provide customized accommodations, and ensure leadership accountability in promoting equity. "Equity is not just about fairness," she explained. "It’s about creating conditions where everyone has the opportunity to thrive."
She also underscored the tangible benefits of inclusivity, explaining that individuals of determination contribute unique perspectives and foster intellectual diversity, driving innovation and enhancing community and shareholder value. "Women of Determination are not just participants in the workplace; they are leaders who bring resilience and invaluable experience to the table," Kaminski noted.
She concluded with a rallying call for collective action, emphasizing that inclusive workplaces require more than just policies—they demand cultural transformation. "When you witness Women of Determination excelling as professionals, mothers, and community members, it becomes clear how powerful inclusion is," she said. "By creating environments where everyone belongs, we empower individuals and strengthen society as a whole."
The session delved into the unique strengths of determination exhibited by women and the critical systemic changes required to cultivate inclusive workplaces.
Kaminski began by presenting eye-opening statistics, noting that 15% of the global population lives with a disability, with 80% of these being invisible. Disabilities, she explained, span a wide range, including physical, sensory, medical, intellectual, psychological, and neurodevelopmental conditions, with most being acquired during a person’s lifetime.
"Despite these figures, stereotypes and biases remain prevalent," she remarked. "Women of Determination are often overlooked for leadership roles and relegated to entry-level positions due to assumptions that they require extensive support or cannot succeed."
She emphasized that fostering inclusivity often involves straightforward accommodations. "A ramp for wheelchair access or standing desks for employees with ADHD can significantly enhance workplace accessibility," she said. "It’s not about overhauling entire systems but addressing specific needs to ensure equity and opportunity. Equity means fair treatment tailored to individual needs, and company leadership must set an example by promoting inclusivity."
Kaminski also highlighted the gender disparity in disability statistics, pointing out that according to the UN, 1 in 5 women has a disability, compared to 1 in 8 men. She attributed this disparity to women’s increased vulnerability to discrimination due to lower levels of financial, legal, and societal power.
She explored the broader societal and cultural challenges faced by women of determination, including pervasive biases and limited access to resources. In many cultures, girls are perceived as less capable than boys, particularly in environments where men are expected to be primary earners. These perceptions restrict opportunities and perpetuate systemic discrimination. Women of Determination also face higher risks of mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, often stemming from exclusion and stigma.
Kaminski urged the need to change perceptions and embrace differences, advocating for inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated. She called on organizations to adopt strong policies, provide customized accommodations, and ensure leadership accountability in promoting equity. "Equity is not just about fairness," she explained. "It’s about creating conditions where everyone has the opportunity to thrive."
She also underscored the tangible benefits of inclusivity, explaining that individuals of determination contribute unique perspectives and foster intellectual diversity, driving innovation and enhancing community and shareholder value. "Women of Determination are not just participants in the workplace; they are leaders who bring resilience and invaluable experience to the table," Kaminski noted.
She concluded with a rallying call for collective action, emphasizing that inclusive workplaces require more than just policies—they demand cultural transformation. "When you witness Women of Determination excelling as professionals, mothers, and community members, it becomes clear how powerful inclusion is," she said. "By creating environments where everyone belongs, we empower individuals and strengthen society as a whole."