Breaking Down Barriers: The Importance of Equity at Oivan
March 8th marks International Women’s Day every year, and the theme for 2023 was “Embrace Equity”. In marking this day, women are honored for their accomplishments and contributions to society, as well as acknowledged for the work that has yet to be done to achieve gender equality.
In the workplace, there are many women who have broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through this blog post, we’ll be highlighting some of the tremendous women in our company who are giving honest opinions on how they see equity at Oivan. Despite their efforts and commitment to excellence, these women are breaking barriers and paving the way for a brighter future for all women who work in different roles. Keep shining and inspiring those around you!
Paulina Wilen, HR Manager in Helsinki office:
From my perspective working in the HR department, equity refers to fairness. At Oivan fairness is ensuring that employees are treated fairly and impartially. To us, this means providing everyone with equal access to opportunities and benefits, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, or any other personal characteristic. This is seen in all aspects of employees’ employment, starting from hiring, all the way to promotions, compensation, and training. At Oivan equity and equality also involves addressing any issues of discrimination or bias that may come up in the workplace and taking steps to prevent those from happening in the future. This promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees can feel valued and respected. In summary, while equality is about treating everyone the same, equity is about giving people what they need to have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Yvonne Ben – Kane, Office Administrator in Helsinki office:
At Oivan, equity means treating every of its employee equally irrespective of their age, race, gender, religion, or status at the company. It involves accepting and appreciating everyone’s contribution no matter how little it may be. This is a key factor to one of Oivan’s core values ‘Fellowship.’ Equity thus promotes inclusion, positivity, and confidence in oneself.
Hafsa Umar, Service Designer in Helsinki office:
It’s not always easy for working moms to balance family and career, but Oivan’s supportive culture has clearly helped me make it possible. I have been always treated as a permanent part of the company from the beginning even though I joined as an intern on a timed contract. I was warmly welcomed and always listened to, which shows that Oivan values you and is committed to creating a workplace that is inclusive and equitable. It’s encouraging to see that our company is making strides toward creating an environment where employees from diverse backgrounds can thrive and succeed. Hopefully, more companies will follow suit and prioritize equity in their hiring practices and company culture.
Jennifer Riley, Senior Project Manager in Helsinki office:
Oivan is a place where I have always felt welcome, a place where I have been able to learn and grow as a professional. In 2023, there is still a huge gender gap in the tech industry, but Oivan works hard to find talented developers, business analysts, project managers, designers, and more regardless of their gender. Oivan not only embraces gender diversity, but our offices are made up of talented folks. When I started with Oivan at the beginning of 2019, I was the first female project manager to be sent on-site to Saudi Arabia. I have never been held back because of my gender. Instead, I have been encouraged to trailblaze. I am looking forward to continuing to explore and learn with Oivan.
Puncharat Nirothorn, Office Administrator in Thailand office:
Oivan always gives growth opportunities to every employee even if we are different in gender, nationality, or religion. Oivan always welcomes employees with kindness, warmth, diversity, equity, sympathy, and respect for each other. I think equity makes us proud because we got the stage and opportunities to perform and display our ability, which also makes employees feel more valued and that they can drive positive energy and attitude toward colleagues.
