1. This International Women’s Day, I pledge…
To fight to depict women outside their relational roles to men. Young girls need to see that women have identities outside of being some man’s wife or daughter.

2. Across the advertising landscape, I want to see more female representation in…
Strategy and planning, which is dominantly a male domain. This is counter-intuitive considering the fact that women are so adept at digging deep and understanding the human psyche in a way vital to garnering strategic insights.

3. One stereotype about women that should be busted this year is…
Against working mothers. This is probably because this subset of women is not easy to exploit and overwork. Provisions need to be made to support and facilitate working mothers so that we do not lose out on the invaluable talent they bring to the table.

“Synergy Dentsu is promoting gender equality and women empowerment by recruiting women in leadership roles. My agency is a gender-blind employer, as should be the case across the board.”

4. My organization is promoting gender equality and women empowerment…
By recruiting women in leadership roles. My agency is a gender-blind employer, as should be the case across the board.

5. I believe women can fight gender inequality at their workplaces…
By supporting women. Women in leadership positions in our industry are already working hard to set an example and make it easier for the next generation of women. Atiya Zaidi is the best example of this. They are paving it forward and we need more of the same at every level.

6. As for men, they can help reduce gender bias at home and work by…
Internalizing the truth that women are equals in the boardroom and at home. Unfortunately, too many men pay lip service to the idea but do not live by the very idea they proclaim to support.

7. My message to young aspiring women looking to start a career in 2022 is…
The ad industry in Pakistan is peppered with absolutely incredible women leaders who have fought battles and paved the way so that you do not have to face the discrimination they did. Do not take anything for granted, do not make excuses. Find a mentor and always put your best foot forward.