Venko is a business where women are the majority. Owned and led by women, we recognise we are somewhat of a (wonderful!) anomaly in our industry. While this is the norm for us, it’s generally not the experience of women in the construction industry.
Our culture at Venko is based around a leadership structure that allows us to all have a voice and that everyone’s opinion and contribution is heard. Speaking up is valued and supported. In considering this outlook, we spoke to our team about their individual experiences over their careers in the Construction Industry.
While a lot has changed, we know from personal experience that equality is a still a work in progress. Several of us shared similar experiences, as the only female in a room, when we have hesitated in the face of the apparent confidence of those around us and stayed quiet at the risk of being ‘found out’ as incorrect, or worse, were quietened by being spoken over or our ideas disregarded.
It became clear from our conversations that one of the key elements we could all identify with is the importance of speaking up. To back ourselves and have the confidence to speak up and own our ‘seat at the table’. As Chantelle put it – “you do have a voice and it is valid.”
“The worst part is when you have the knowledge and you’re just not being listened to.”
– Andrea-Ann Daniels, Interior Designer
It’s important to acknowledge that International Women’s Day is not about celebrating women at the exclusion of men or at the expense of ignoring other inequalities in many people’s lives. Instead, it is an important occasion, every year, for all of us to pause and consider the inequalities that women have faced throughout history.’ Moira Szucs, Associate Venko.
IWD is a celebration for all of us in recognising what women have achieved in bringing choice and opportunity into our lives now and for that of future generations.
We believe that a truly innovative and vibrant design studio can only thrive when individuals from various backgrounds and experiences come together. Inclusivity for us means creating an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and contributes to the collective brilliance of our team. From fostering open communication to embracing different perspectives, we strive to create a workplace that celebrates the unique strengths each person brings to the table.
Venko remains committed to creating a workplace where gender equality and inclusivity thrive. While this week we have celebrated being a business owned and led by women we also know we have work to do to shift the gender balance at Venko – it cuts both ways.
This week we acknowledge and appreciate the talented women who enhance our success with their skills and dedication. Your presence elevates our team, and we’re grateful for the positive impact you make every day.
Team Chats
We sat down with our team for this years IWD. Find out what they had to say at the video links below:
Our IWD Reading List
As part of our commitment to learning and growth, here’s a curated reading list from this week. Watch, read, and listen to thought leaders who are pushing to close the gender gap and advocating for greater inclusivity in their respective fields. Let’s continue to be inspired and empower each other to make a positive impact on the design world and beyond.
- Are there elements of what you do as a designer that are weapons of exclusion? Link Here
- Do you know of these female trail blazers for interior design in Australia? Link Here
- What if women built the world they want to see? Link Here
- Have you ever heard of these women and their achievements? Link Here
- Are you a victim of data bias? Link Here