T&T Stock Exchange rings bell for gender equality

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Chief executive officer of the T&T Stock Exchange Eva Mitchell yesterday called on private and public institutions to “not just talk the talk” but to “walk the walk” when it comes to the issue of breaking gender biases.

“Here at the T&T Stock Exchange we are committed to breaking every bias. We have ensured that our recruitment process is focused on selecting the best candidate for the role regardless of gender,” Mitchell said.

“This has resulted in 85 per cent of our management team being female and it is something I am so very proud to say. This occurrence, is something that we take great pride in,” she said.

Mitchell made the statement yesterday as she rang the T&T Stock Exchange’s opening bell as part of the global initiative by The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) to celebrate International Women’s Day 2022 ( March 8) and promote gender equality, highlight the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace, and recognise the contribution of women in building a better future for all.

This year, a record total of 121 exchanges and central counterparty clearing houses (CCPs) around the world were involved in events for the annual ‘Ring the Bell for Gender Equality’ initiative.

Nandini Sukumar, CEO of the WFE said: “Exchanges and CCPs celebrate the role of women in the workplace and look forward to even greater progress in the years ahead. By ringing the bell, public markets are giving voice and visibility to women everywhere.’’

Tonni Brodber, the representative of the United Nation’s Women Multi Country Office-Caribbean, who also delivered remarks at yesterday’s virtual event, said gender equality is simply good for business.

“The private sector is a key partner in achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women. Among all the challenges and opportunities that exist in the world today, one fact is unquestionable: companies with greater gender equality enjoy higher levels of growth and better performance,” she said.

“Not only is gender equality better for countries economic success on a macro-economic level, research has also shown that companies that are intentional about their implementation of gender equality and women’s empowerment principles are more profitable. This is something I am proud to say every year this is evidence based gender equality is good for business,” Brodber said.

Principal Officer & Head of Debt Capital Markets at IDB Invest Carole Sanz-Paris said while women were disproportionately affected by job losses due to the pandemic it now gives them an opportunity to engage in economic recovery that is more sustainable and inclusive.