The advertising industry in this region has plenty to shout about when it comes to gender diversity. We recently interviewed a number of female executives for our annual Women in Advertising issue and there were lots of positive comments about the progress being made.
But no-one will deny there is a lot more work to do in leveling the playing field. We will be publishing these interviews online at Campaign Middle East and in our September issue.
Veronica Nipay, Media Director, Magna Global
Do you think the industry has become more inclusive?
I believe there is a growing awareness of the value diversity brings to this industry. Particularly here in Dubai, we are fortunately immersed in a so-called cultural melting pot with diverse people and backgrounds – which I believe has made the majority of people more tolerant of each other’s differences and more receptive to the value each one brings.
I feel that this melting pot of cultures is naturally fostering a more inclusive environment for us all.
What has been your high and your low point as a woman in advertising?
What I would consider as a high point, not only as a ‘woman’ in advertising but as a professional, is being in a place where I am able to positively influence and grow people, motivate, mentor and unlock their potential, and then witness their achievements.
This provides me with a particular sense of pride and fulfilment. Most especially when it comes to people, I know who work very hard and are always eager to grow.
I find it difficult to think of a low point. But if I really had to think of something, I would find it disheartening to see people not making the most out of the chances and opportunities they have that a lot of other people would otherwise give anything for.
What advice would you give to women starting out in the industry?
If you’re willing to put in the hard work and others can see the value you bring, the so-called barriers disappear. So don’t let stereotypes of any kind, including gender, affect the effort and passion you bring to the table.
Always give it your best, be passionate about what you do, and keep improving yourself. Disregard glass ceilings, but rather constantly strive for self-improvement, and success will follow.
What message would you like to give men in advertising?
I would advise both men and women to develop a habit of challenging their own assumptions and biases. Be open to unlearning stereotypes and preconceived notions about people (including yourself) that you may have unconsciously acquired.
Also, try to practice empathy by imagining yourself in others’ situations to genuinely understand their emotions and experiences. Lastly, let’s collaborate, give credit where it’s due and elevate each other.
What more can be done to support the growth of women in the industry?
I believe positive representation is powerful. Throughout the different stages of my career, I’ve had a manager, a director, and an MD, all are women – they’re my mentors and role models up to this day.
I’ve always looked up to them, admired their strength, and most importantly, they’ve been a great source of inspiration and motivation for me to achieve and pursue great things. In my career, seeing a woman in a leadership position in this industry became a norm.
Women achieve amazing things – and that’s normal. Positive representation of these women I know made so-called barriers disappear.
I believe this mindset should be instilled in young women that regardless of gender, you can achieve great things if you don’t allow anyone including yourself, to put limits to what you can do.
