Satynmag AICPA & CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards – the Learnings

Satynmag AICPA&CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards 2023 has come to be recognized as Sri Lanka’s only women focused awards. Since its launch in 2021, the Awards have come to reflect many vital and interesting trends in the Sri Lankan workplace regarding the status of women, the support they receive from their organizations and the need to do more for women to achieve equity at work.

In the 2023 Women Friendly Workplace Awards, unique insights have been observed that are worthy of being seen as initiatives that empower women – exceptional efforts at supporting single mothers, encouraging women who have taken a career break to come back to work with reskilling, and fostering women’s participation in STEM fields have been these key developments. By addressing these areas, we can pave the way for a more equitable and empowering work environment for women in Sri Lanka.

Supporting Single Mothers: Breaking Taboos and Promoting Work-Life Balance

In Sri Lanka, being a single mother is often stigmatized, making it difficult for women to openly seek support in the workplace. It is crucial to destigmatize single motherhood and create an environment where these women feel comfortable and confident in expressing their needs. Offering flexible work arrangements and support systems tailored to the unique challenges faced by single mothers can go a long way in ensuring their success and well-being. By valuing work-life balance and implementing policies that support single mothers, organizations can unlock the potential of these talented individuals while fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

The Sri Lankan organizations who took the initiative to support single mothers in the workplace must be commended for their ability to observe the hardships often faced by these mothers who often play the role of both mother and father. Given the cultural sensibilities that often prevent single mothers from seeking out support, when an organization takes the time to find out who they are and how they can be supported, it speaks volumes for the high level of support such organizations give towards the women on their team.

Returning to work with a Career Comeback: Recognizing Expertise and Willingness

Women often face interruptions in their careers due to various personal reasons, such as motherhood or personal needs. However, these breaks should not overshadow their expertise and willingness to contribute to the workforce. 

Employers can recognize the immense value that these women bring to the table and create opportunities for them to return to the workforce seamlessly. Implementing returnship programs, mentorship initiatives, and upskilling opportunities can help bridge the gap and empower women to pursue their professional aspirations with confidence. By embracing and actively recruiting women seeking career comebacks, organizations can tap into a diverse talent pool and reap the benefits of their valuable experiences.

Satynman AICPA&CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards recognise the Sri Lankan organizations that are encouraging women to return to work and reskilling them ; they need to be commended for their initiative to give talented and skilled women the opportunity to come back to the careers they are more than capable of handling.

Satynmag AICPA&CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards & Women in STEM: Supporting and Empowering Trailblazers

The underrepresentation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields is a persistent issue worldwide. However, there is a growing interest among women to pursue careers in STEM, and it is crucial to support and empower these trailblazers. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages women’s participation in STEM, we can bridge the gender gap in these industries and drive innovation and progress. Organizations can create mentorship programs, scholarships, and networking opportunities to cultivate an environment where women in STEM thrive and excel. By championing gender diversity in STEM, we unlock a wealth of untapped potential and contribute to a more inclusive society.

The organizations that actively support women in STEM in Sri Lanka are contributing towards the upliftment of women entering these fields where the opportunities are many. Satynmag AICPA&CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards are committed to empowering women in tech and encouraging them to grow in STEM.

The Women Friendly Workplace Awards 2023 shed light on the importance of supporting single mothers, enabling career comebacks, and empowering women in STEM fields. By recognizing and addressing these areas, we take significant steps toward creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace. 

The Satynmag AICPA&CIMA Women Friendly Workplace Awards believe that it is essential for organizations in Sri Lanka and beyond to embrace these principles, fostering an environment where every woman can flourish professionally. Through collective efforts, we can build a brighter future, where women are valued, supported, and given the opportunities they deserve.