Celebrating Women's Equality Day: Inspiring Journeys at Elliot Leigh

As August 26th approaches, we prepare to celebrate National Women's Equality Day. While this day commemorates the 19th Amendment in the United States, its powerful message of gender equality and celebrating women's achievements resonates deeply across the globe, including here in the UK.

At Elliot Leigh, we are actively championing the remarkable women who form the backbone of our success. We proudly foster an inclusive workplace where talent flourishes, regardless of gender. In honour of this important day, we spotlight some extraordinary women who contribute to our achievements daily. Their stories highlight professional accomplishments, personal growth, resilience, and their vision for a truly equal future, shaped by Elliot Leigh's supportive environment.

Understanding Women's Equality Day

National Women's Equality Day on August 26th specifically marks the U.S. 19th Amendment in 1920, a monumental victory for suffrage. This day also prompts global reflection, reminding us of the UK's own milestones like the Representation of the People Act in 1918 and the Equal Franchise Act in 1928, which eventually granted universal suffrage. It is a call to acknowledge progress and the vital work still needed to champion equality in all spheres, especially professionally.

Featured Women of Elliot Leigh: Their Journeys

Angela, our dedicated Marketing Director for almost three years, has been crucial in shaping Elliot Leigh's brand and growth. She established our first marketing department, significantly boosting lead generation and company growth. Angela has grown considerably in confidence, excelling in decision-making and leading meetings in traditionally male-dominated spaces. For her, Women's Equality Day honours past achievements and those who paved the way. Her advice: "Your dreams are achievable, there’s nothing stopping you from reaching your goals, even in male-dominated industries." She envisions a future where opportunities are truly equitable, and talent is recognised without bias.

Ebi, Service Manager with Elliot Leigh TLC since December 2022, is our Ofsted-registered manager, ensuring high-quality services for young people. She oversees operations, builds strong relationships with authorities, and fosters a culture of accountability and empathy. Her key achievement is leading her team through significant growth while maintaining high standards and improving staff retention. For Ebi, Women's Equality Day is about amplifying unheard voices—those affected by abuse, trauma, and marginalisation. Inspired by Michelle Obama, Ebi advises: "own your voice, trust your instincts, and never underestimate your value." Her vision is an industry where all women, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, are respected and given equal opportunity to lead, concluding: "We rise by lifting others."

Elka, our valued Finance Manager for eight and a half years, ensures smooth financial operations. Promoted from Accounts Administrator in under two years, she consistently delivers high standards. Her proudest achievement is improving internal processes, reducing workload and minimising errors. Elka values building strong collaborative relationships, enhancing team culture. For her, Women's Equality Day honours past progress while highlighting the ongoing fight for full equality. She encourages continuous learning and advises women: "Never be afraid of making mistakes." Her favourite sayings inspire self-belief and positive impact: "We are not what happened to us; we are what we choose to become" and "What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."

Dawn, a Placement Officer with Elliot Leigh TLC since 2021, coordinates crucial placements for young people. Her background as a secondary school governor for over two decades provided a strong foundation. A proud moment was the team's Supported Housing Awards nomination, highlighting their impact. Dawn adapts well to change, contributing to TLC's growth and supporting colleagues. She draws daily inspiration from the strong, supportive women she works alongside. For Dawn, Women's Equality Day underscores that women are often undervalued. She advocates for fair pay and benefits, asserting it must be an organisational priority. Her advice: "you are capable of anything you set your mind to. Never doubt your ability to achieve." She envisions a workplace with truly equal opportunities for all women.

Kareena, a Property Administrator at Elliot Leigh, manages property repairs, maintenance, and landlord coordination. For her, Women's Equality Day is about empowerment and awareness, celebrating women who pursue their goals. Her most memorable achievement is becoming a working mother, balancing parenthood with her career. She has gained deep insight into social housing, learning patience and empathy, and is inspired by her multi-tasking and supportive female colleagues. Kareena’s advice: "Always believe in yourself and your abilities. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your ideas as your opinions matter and can make a difference—especially in industries that can often feel male-dominated." She adds: "Who run the world – GIRLS!" 👑

Sarah, our Placements Manager for almost five years across TLC and Property Management, closely assists local authorities in providing temporary accommodation. She welcomes new clients, explains services, and connects them with vital local resources. For Sarah, Women's Equality Day is a profound reminder of the rights gained through past sacrifices, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equal recognition across all platforms. She prides herself on a career promoting equality, and a lifelong passion for organising events to bring people together. Her time at Elliot Leigh has fostered independence and professionalism, and she values continuous learning. Inspired by her late colleague Emma and current mentor Christine, Sarah advises aspiring female leaders to be strong, confident, and compassionate. She firmly believes female leaders should not need to adopt male traits to be successful, and she eagerly anticipates more women in senior roles as our organisation grows.

Tina - Finance Officer

Tina, our committed Finance Officer for three and a half years, brings nearly three decades of valuable finance experience. Despite early maths struggles, her passion for numbers propelled her career. Her proudest achievement at Elliot Leigh is significantly improving timely invoice collection, especially from local authorities. Tina feels settled and happy, crediting her manager, Elka, as an inspiration. For Tina, Women's Equality Day acknowledges all women's contributions. Her advice: "You can achieve whatever you want to be... never give up!" She envisions a society where opportunities are open to everyone, driven by individual ambition.

Elliot Leigh's Commitment to Championing Equality

The inspiring journeys of Angela, Ebi, Tina, Elka, Dawn, Kareena, and Sarah underscore Elliot Leigh's unwavering commitment to championing women. We believe our strength lies in diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where women are empowered, valued, and have equal opportunities for growth and leadership. Through supportive policies, a collaborative culture, and a proactive focus on development, we ensure our team reflects diverse talent, and that women at Elliot Leigh truly flourish.

As we commemorate National Women's Equality Day, the stories of these seven remarkable women at Elliot Leigh are a powerful inspiration. They embody resilience, leadership, and dedication. Their journeys highlight individual achievements and collective progress towards a more equitable world, made possible by environments that truly champion their potential.

Elliot Leigh remains steadfast in its commitment to gender equality, ensuring every woman in our organisation has the platform to succeed, lead, and make a meaningful impact. We invite everyone to reflect on this day's importance and contribute to a future where opportunities are truly boundless for all.