In light of International Women’s Day, Roastbrief interviewed prominent women working within the advertising industry. This time, we spoke with Almudena Blanco, Managing Director of Le Pub, who shares her perspective on the social challenges that still hinder the path to workplace equality, as well as her vision for addressing them.
Q: In the current context, where women play crucial roles, what do you consider to be the challenges still to be faced?
A.B: From my point of view, the most significant challenge lies in the unconscious biases that prevail in our society, rooted in our human nature. Without a conscious effort, overcoming them is difficult. I often hear people claim that equal opportunities are not a problem in their companies, that sexual harassment does not exist, that we have made enormous progress. However, the reality is that we still have a lot to do. It is crucial to recognize that the lack of visibility of certain issues does not mean that they do not exist. We need to continue promoting the growth of women and other underrepresented minorities in the workplace, prioritizing listening more than we speak and acting accordingly to eliminate gender disparity.
Q: Why do you consider it essential to strengthen women’s empowerment in various sectors?
A.B: Personally, I believe that women do not need to be empowered, as power inherently resides in each of us. What is essential is to strengthen policies and corporate culture to completely eradicate the perception that women are less capable or weaker. Empowerment arises when our voices are heard and valued, and when we are given the same opportunities to grow and excel.
Q: What strategies have you observed to have worked in achieving equal job opportunities for women?
A.B: Currently, from my maternity leave, I can answer this question from a different perspective. I am convinced that the best strategy begins long before we enter the workforce, and it is through education. This is the key. If we want future generations, regardless of their gender, to have the same opportunities, we must guide them without making distinctions based on gender stereotypes. Education is fundamental to unlearn toxic behaviors ingrained in our society and foster equal opportunities from an early age.
Q: What advice would you give to women to continue elevating their knowledge and standing out professionally?
A.B: My advice is simple: never allow your voice to be silenced. Stand up and make yourself heard, whether you are starting your career or holding a leadership position. If your opinion and ideas are not valued in a work environment, seek out a place where they are. Women have a responsibility to demand equitable opportunities and to support the advancement of other women in the workplace.
Q: What is your inspirational quote?
A.B: More than a quote, I subscribe to the concept “We should all be feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. In today’s society, anyone who does not consider themselves a feminist is implicitly endorsing gender inequality. This mindset is unacceptable in the contemporary world. We must work together to build a future where gender equality is a palpable reality for everyone.
With each response, Almudena Blanco demonstrates her commitment to the cause of gender equality and her determination to drive significant change in the advertising industry and beyond. Her voice resonates with authority and hope, inspiring others to join in the fight for a more equitable future.
