International Women’s Day at SABA
4 Mar 2024
AshleighMounser
Each year, International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls. In 2024, the theme is ‘inspire inclusion.’
This year SABA spoke to some of our staff about empowerment, supporting other women and overcoming barriers.
Karen Higgs
Executive Assistant to our CEO
“Sometimes what you think is a challenging time can become a blessing in disguise. Optimism in life is key.”
Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day has become an important event over the last several years. Our support office team comes together to not only celebrate, but to hear from strong, influential, and successful women, many of whom are juggling careers and families. I am always inspired when hearing about their journeys.
Q: How do you support other women in the business?
Our support office is approximately 90% women, and our executive team is all women, all of whom have busy work and family lives. Support is about always listening, offering encouragement, and peer support.
Q: How do you encourage women not to give up?
Life can deal some sad and unfortunate hands, but I would always encourage everyone, not just women, to push through. Sometimes what you think is a challenging time can become a blessing in disguise. Optimism in life is key.
Q: What is the biggest shift you’ve seen in the fashion industry?
The biggest change I have seen is the digital shift, and how influencers can dictate fashion styles. Sustainable fashion is also a key consideration now when purchasing fashion.
SHOP THE LOOK
Sang Johnson
General Manager
“I’ve had to learn to forgive myself, and not give myself a hard time when I make mistakes. This is part of learning.”
Q: What inspired you to pursue a leadership role?
A leadership role wasn’t something I planned to pursue when I was younger, but I’ve been fortunate to always have mentors who believed in me and thought I could do more. Being surrounded by these role models has made me want to elevate others in their roles too.
Q: Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women trying to pursue a career in your field?
Have the confidence within yourself to give it a go. Try out for the interview, and apply for the role as you never know where it will take you. I had no idea what an allocator was when I first lived in London, but I looked at the attributes the role was looking for and knew I had those, so I went for it. It was the best career decision I ever made. Take the opportunities that are presented to you – even if you think you aren’t ready.
Q: How have you built confidence and resilience over the course of your career?
I’ve had to learn to forgive myself, and not give myself a hard time when I make mistakes. This is part of learning. I also seek out feedback from others on what I can improve on so I can continue to grow. I try to do more of what I love, like sunrise walks with my mum and friends. Trying new things helps me recharge and stay positive.
Q: What is the biggest shift you have seen in the fashion industry?
The speed at which technology develops has shifted the way the fashion industry operates, alongside evolving customer behaviours and what they expect from brands. Social media now plays a big part in how people discover, shop, and interact.
SHOP THE LOOK
Carina Ton Micheal
Group Head of Technology & Digital
“The workplace should be about the merits of your work and your work ethic. Gender, orientation, cultural background etc … these factors shouldn't hinder your success at work. You should be able to thrive based on merit.”
Q: What are three qualities that you possess that have led to your success?
Ambition, perseverance, self-confidence.
Q: Why do we need more women in leadership?
Every second person in the world is a woman! Leaders set direction, ambitions, and goals for the people they represent. It would seem obvious to have equal representation in leadership roles.
Q: How important is equality to you in the workplace?
Extremely. The workplace should be about the merits of your work and your work ethic. Gender, orientation, cultural background etc … these factors shouldn't hinder your success at work. You should be able to thrive based on merit.
Q: What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in becoming successful in your field? How did you overcome them?
Earlier in my career, in a male-dominated IT industry, I have been the "assumed" note-taker or coffee person in a meeting room full of males. However, with some grit and perseverance, I was able to claim my space in those rooms. I've also had tremendous support from fellow colleagues (of all genders) who helped me develop in my career. Find your support network and be true to yourself.
SHOP THE LOOK
Chalita Muakphloi
Brand Visual Merchandising Manager
“Women often credit our accomplishments to external factors such as “good luck” or “won’t make it without their help”. We must own our success, not undermine it.”
Q: How do you support other women in the business?
Celebrate other women’s small and big achievements either via social media or in person. Women often credit our accomplishments to external factors such as “good luck” or “won’t make it without their help”. We must own our success, not undermine it.
Q: Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women trying to pursue a career in your field?
Do not undermine small works. The best way to learn is from the ground up. Do not be afraid to share your ideas and listen more.
Q: Who is a woman you admire in the fashion industry?
The great Gabrielle Chanel, in the sense that she was the visionary of her own career. She broke through many barriers in a male-dominated industry and paved the way for many women in the fashion industry.
Q: How have you built confidence and resilience in your career?
By recognizing what I lack, learning from my mistakes, and doing my best to exceed expectations the second time around.
SHOP THE LOOK
Sara Hernandez
UX Designer
“Collaboration is key in fostering a supportive environment for women in the workplace.”
Q: What’s the biggest shift you’ve seen in the fashion industry?
The biggest shift I’ve seen in the fashion industry is the increasing emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, with more brands prioritizing ethical practices and diverse representation in their designs and marketing campaigns.
Q: How do you motivate other women?
I motivate other women by sharing my experiences and knowledge, and actively supporting and uplifting them in their career journeys. Collaboration is key in fostering a supportive environment for women in the workplace.
Q: What does empowerment mean to you and how have you seen it?
Empowerment to me means having the confidence and power to control our own lives. Being able to pursue our goals and make meaningful contributions, while supporting others. I’ve seen empowerment manifest through initiatives that provide education, mentorship, and opportunities for women to thrive professionally and personally.
Q: Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to women trying to pursue a career in your field?
My advice to women pursuing a career in UX design would be to continuously seek opportunities for learning and growth, stay curious and adaptable in a rapidly evolving field, build a strong network of mentors and peers for support and guidance, and never underestimate the power of creativity and empathy in creating impactful user experiences.
