Launched in 2018, the Equality Impact Awards honor the contributions and leadership of women and allies that are changing historically, and often notoriously, unequal industries.
The awards are given to both women and allies in tech, retail and publishing who are breaking glass ceilings, fighting for equal pay, championing diversity and inclusion and ensuring that the workplace is better for themselves and those who come after them.
Today, we honor one of our 2019 winners, Anna Chalon, Director of Recruiting and D&I at Frame.io. Anna answered 5 questions about the state of equality in the industry. Take a look!
1. If you could tell 16-year-old you one thing, what would it be?
Life may be a marathon but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be impatient and fight for change with all your heart every day.
2. What was your dream job when you were just starting your career? How has that dream evolved?
I wanted to be a singer songwriter, tell stories and entertain people. After moving to NYC and doing this for a few years, I realized I needed a little more structure and predictability and landed in recruiting fairly randomly. I loved it right away. I loved being part of building a company. I loved helping candidates find their next opportunity. And I love being able to have an impact on shaping what a diverse and inclusive tech company can look like.
3. What does gender equality mean to you?
The ability for someone to have equal access to rights and opportunities regardless of their gender. This also means being able to make our own choices without letting gender stereotypes and societal expectations get in the way.
4. Who is one person in your industry who has inspired you in your fight for equality? How have they done so?
It’s hard to pick one! Many people have inspired me by refusing to subscribe to stereotypes and by staying focus on their goals and ambitions. But mostly, by bringing people up with them along the way.
5. What’s one concrete next step that others can take to promote equality (of any sort) in the workplace?
Creating a D&I committee open to all is an easy step to start a dialogue in a safe space and raise awareness. It’s a venue for people to share their stories, learn from each other, make recommendations and take concrete steps to improve equality in the workplace.
At Frame.io, we now have a third of the company in the committee and have been able to implement many initiatives as a result of these discussions.
