Feb 20 2025 | theoutcastcollective
Despite significant progress, women in the workforce continue to face barriers that hinder their growth, leadership opportunities, and overall well-being. Research shows that while women make up nearly 50% of the global workforce, they still earn 20% less than men for the same work (World Economic Forum, 2023). Additionally, only 10% of Fortune 500 companies have female CEOs—a stark reminder of the need for systemic change.
Beyond pay gaps and leadership disparities, women also face unconscious bias, workplace microaggressions, and fewer sponsorship opportunities compared to their male counterparts. A McKinsey report found that 42% of women experience gender-related microaggressions at work, such as having their expertise questioned or being spoken over in meetings. These experiences not only impact career progression but also affect mental well-being and job satisfaction.
Why Inclusion Initiatives Matter?
Workplace inclusion is more than just fairness—it is a strategic advantage. Companies that prioritise gender diversity and inclusion benefit from stronger performance, higher retention, and better financial outcomes. Studies show that diverse teams are 87% better at decision-making (Cloverpop, 2022), and organisations with inclusive cultures experience 22% lower employee turnover (Deloitte, 2023). When businesses invest in inclusion, they create environments where employees—regardless of gender—feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. This fosters better collaboration, strengthens leadership pipelines, and drives long-term success.
Why Organisations Must Take Action
For organisations to truly leverage the benefits of a diverse workforce, inclusion must be intentional. Gender diversity policies alone are not enough—companies must implement active measures to ensure equal opportunities. This includes:
Addressing Unconscious Bias: Training leaders and employees to identify and counteract biases.
- Creating Safe Spaces: Encouraging open dialogue through mentorship programs, allyship initiatives, and psychological safety at work.
- Championing Women’s Leadership: Providing opportunities for women to take on key roles and responsibilities.
- Recognising Contributions: Ensuring that women’s achievements are visible and celebrated.
How TOC is Championing Change This Women’s Day
At The Outcast Collective (TOC), we believe inclusion should be a lived experience, not just a policy. That’s why this International Women’s Day, we’re rolling out impactful DEI initiatives designed to inspire, empower, and drive lasting change.
Here’s how we’re making a difference:
Inclusive Kissey – Stories of Inclusion
A weekly mailer series that raises awareness of workplace inclusion through storytelling. Employees will receive curated stories that highlight inclusive behaviours, challenge biases, and encourage positive workplace transformations.
Dil Se Thank You – Expressing Gratitude
Encouraging men in the workplace to recognise and appreciate the contributions of their women colleagues. Gratitude fosters respect and strengthens workplace relationships, helping create an environment where women feel valued.
Meri Aakanksha – Women Who Aspire
An open contest for women employees to pitch their vision for an ideal workplace where they feel truly empowered. This initiative not only encourages women’s leadership but also builds a network of strong, ambitious professionals who can drive future change.
Nukkad Natak – Inclusion Theatre
A unique, interactive skit-based activity where employees perform real-life workplace scenarios that challenge biases and promote inclusion. Theatre as a medium creates deep emotional engagement and drives behavioural transformation.
WOW Talks – Multigenerational Panel Discussion
Facilitating conversations between women from different generations to discuss challenges, opportunities, and lessons in career progression. This creates mentorship opportunities and builds a culture of shared learning.
Allyship in Action – Empowering Allies
A programme designed to engage men as active allies in workplace inclusion, providing them with tools to challenge biases, advocate for equal opportunities, and support women in leadership.
Aspirise – Women’s Leadership Development
A structured initiative to help women navigate leadership, career growth, and personal development, ensuring they have the support and guidance needed to excel.
The Future is Inclusive
Workplace inclusion is not just about policy changes or one-time initiatives; it is about creating an environment where every employee thrives. TOC is committed to driving this change—not just on International Women’s Day, but every day. By working together, organisations can build workplaces where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
Are you ready to make inclusion an everyday reality?
Let’s collaborate to build workplaces that empower and uplift everyone.
Reach out to lakshmi@theoutcastcollective.com to be a part of the change.