09 October 2024
Hilton Deansgate, Manchester
#WiCConference
60 Second Interview with...
Honey Ajuwon, Head of Journey Transformation, Planning & Deployment, Natwest
1. In your opinion, why do you think representation should be more championed in the industry?
A: I believe in representation and accountability, the industry should reflect the society and world we live in and ensure a broad set of diverse lived experiences are taken into account when incepting, defining, delivering and implementing all products and solutions.
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2. What advice would you give to the next generation of women in the industry?
A: It can be very hard to do, but do try as much as you can to bring your authentic self to work. The more people see a woman living authentically, the easier the cultural paradigm shift will be in accepting there is no one way to be a leader or a professional.
3. In your opinion or experience, please name 1-2 things that can be done by a) individuals b) companies and/or c) society to support the elevation of women in senior positions in the industry?
A: Firstly, both individuals and companies should look to understand the intersectional nature of diversity and representation. When I talk to women’s experiences and elevation into senior positions, I do so through the lens of my ethnicity and my gender, as such it is important to ensure ALL women have access to the same opportunities for elevation into senior roles. Secondly, we need more sponsorship and less mentorship, more leaders championing us when we are not in the room, lending us their social capital and setting us up for success.
4. What does allyship mean to you and what advice would you give to those who want to be allies in their industry?
A: I tend to have a preference for accomplices, all accomplices are allies, but not all allies are accomplices. While an ally is willing to stand in support of a marginalised voice, risk is rarely involved. An accomplice uses the power and privilege they have to challenge the status quo, often risking their physical and social wellbeing in the process. As such my advice would be for would be allies to use their power and privilege to selflessly challenge the status quo both visibly and invisibly so they become accomplices to the change they are looking to foster.
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