The Gender equality: Key insights and the path ahead panel discussion is looking to asses where do we stand when it comes to gender equality in the AV sector since the 50/50 by 2020 initiative, taking further the conversation about equity and existing barriers standing in front of a real change. While more data is being collected and there are various initiatives addressing these challenges faced by women and non-binary individuals, the gaps remain.

Challenges like the gender pay gap, moving from an entry-level to heading a department, limited access to below the line roles, and entrenched stereotypes continue to stifle progress. Women face challenges in staying in the workforce, achieving leadership positions or negotiating equitable terms. How transparent is the AV sector, what are the different factors beyond the gender pay gap, and what can we do to reduce it?

The lack of diverse talent is also perpetuating the cycle of inequity, so it is crucial to bring into discussion the additional barriers faced by women of colour, women belonging to the LGBTQI community, disabled women, older women, and women from lower-income backgrounds.

How are we dealing with the sensitive and timely topic of mental health and wellbeing for people working in the sector, along with physical health and safety measure, looking to protecting production staff from bullying, harassment and sexual violence at work?

These are some of questions that will be addressed by a panel of industry representatives who have been advocating and working on these topics in the past years, looking towards the future and exploring new strategies and ways of fighting against the remaining gaps in the industry.

With this offer, the EFM Industry Sessions aim to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).