International Women's Day - what does equality mean to us at AJ Products?

At AJ Products, we actively work to be a company where everyone is given the same opportunities to grow. That is why we are eager to celebrate International Women's Day and talk about what gender equality means for us.

Helena Christensen, Head of HR for AJ Products Global

What is gender equality like at AJ Products?
"We are constantly working on the issue of equality and that work extends beyond policy and statutory requirements to active measures in the organisation. For us, it is a matter of course that AJ should be an open, inclusive and equal workplace. However, we must also take into account other grounds of discrimination such as racism, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, age and disability.

Embracing gender equality is about striving for a world where all people have the same rights and opportunities. It is about working to eliminate inequalities and discrimination. It is about giving women, men and people who identify as non-binary the same opportunity to make their voice heard so that they can achieve their full potential and contribute to the development of society.

We cannot rest in that work. It is about building and managing an open culture and helping the organisation with the right tools. When a new manager starts at AJ, training in Inclusive Leadership is a core part of the induction programme. For us, it's about being clear in our expectations of you as a leader and that inclusion is a prerequisite and an opportunity! In 2023, we will roll out an in-depth training programme for all managers. Equality starts with the leaders and the first step is to be aware of the inequalities and discrimination that exist in society."

What other factors are particularly important?
"We want to help our employees combine work and family life. In particular, we want to encourage an even take-up of parental leave and time off to cover childcare needs. The more fathers take an equal share of childcare responsibilities, the easier it will be for women to compete for jobs on equal terms. In the long run, it will hopefully lead to a culture in society where the issue of gender is not even relevant."

Is International Women's Day necessary?
"Absolutely! It is a reminder of how people in previous generations have fought for things we now take for granted, such as being able to vote and have a career. We must not forget those sacrifices, because we still have a way to go. By highlighting the issue and other issues related to inclusion, we can support and encourage individuals to break norms and follow their dreams, then together we can create a more equal society."

What does equality mean to you?

In order to support equality and justice at work, you need to understand what privileges you have in contrast to others. It opens us up to drive change both at a grassroots level and at a structural level. Together, we can influence the development of a fairer society.

Therese Brede, Social Media Marketing Specialist

Head shot of woman wearing a hi-vis vest

Equality for me means that we should all be able to do what we are interested in and good at. If you are good at something, you are good at it, regardless of your gender. Sometimes you need courage to dare to do what you want.

Alicia Björklund, Product Engineer

For me, equality means that all people should have the same opportunities and power to shape society and their own lives, and be met with respect. We need to address these issues early so that hopefully the same work is not required in the future but instead gender equality becomes a matter of course.

Amanda Haglund, Product Communicator

For me, equality means that we work towards reaching a society where both boys and girls have the same opportunities, rights and value, whether at home or in the workplace.

Johanna Andersson, Receptionist

Equality for me is being treated and regarded as equal. Regardless of whether that's at school, at work or at the grocery store. It's also about understanding that people all have different backgrounds and circumstances but must have the same opportunities.

Clara Abrahamsson, Copywriter

For me, equality is about humanity, where all people must treat each other with warmth, kindness and respect regardless of who they are. Together we must stand up against injustice, and inspire and support each other to protect our rights.

Frida Rajković, Marketing Automation Specialist

For me, equality is about creating a society where women and men have the same opportunities, rights and respect, which is fundamental for a democratic and fair world.

Sara Jankulov Westerberg, HR Business Partner

With social media and the 'new' generation growing up now, I'm sure we'll push equality to a higher level than before. I vote for equal pay and equal opportunities for equal work, regardless of gender.

Linda Cedell, Project Sales

Equal rights for all individuals regardless of background and circumstances, and it should apply to all areas of life, in the home, in the community and in the workplace.

Matilda Lerjebo, Assembly Coordinator

Equality for me means women and men having fair conditions in their working life.

Maren Aune, Digital Marketing Specialist

Young girl wearing scholl uniform and brushing her teeth

Do you want to learn more about our work with social sustainability?

Underpinning our corporate culture at AJ Products is a desire for diversity not just in our business, but around the world. We make every effort to ensure that the suppliers we work with meet our high expectations in this area. We also support various charities and associations to help make the changes we want to see.

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