International Women’s Day (IWD) is an annual event to celebrate women’s achievements and spread the message of female empowerment and gender equality across the world.
As the day grows near, Bahrain Confidential celebrates the achievements of women in Bahrain and around the world by putting them on the spotlight and knowing how they #ChoosetoChallenge every day.
Today’s spotlight is on Kate Hardcastle MBE, Founder of Insight with Passion and TV Presenter.
What does the 2021 International Women’s Day slogan, #ChoosetoChallenge mean for you in your work life?
When I celebrate IWD 2021, I personally commit to doing so with authenticity and purpose. I want to ensure that everyone is part of the conversation and has the platform to be heard – and if that means we must look at how we can share the opportunities and work together to challenge and break through barriers – even better.
What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in becoming successful in your field? How did you overcome them?
In my field I have often been seen as a pioneer breaking new boundaries and engaging across multiple sectors and have faced into difficult times where I have been bullied or harassed by colleagues. It was not pleasant or comfortable at many points, but I stayed true to my values & I made one firm promise to myself that I wanted to be the last person out into that position – so I must change attitudes and pre-conceived ideas by letting the work speak for itself. It can be hard to challenge something when you are also dealing with how it affects you as a person – but we do all need to rise above it and make change.
What’s one tip that greatly impacted you and your career trajectory?
Simply – Two Ears, One Mouth – use it in that order
On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?
I am so fortunate to work with a largely female team, and I learn just as much from them as I hope they do from me. My younger colleagues have helped me to connect & engage in new ways. I hope I can continue to reiterate the importance of knowing your values and sticking to them. It is so important – and we are in complete control of this. Is it worth taking a short cut when it comes to our own brand? I don’t want to over-promise and under deliver, and I always want to ensure that my network feel confident in my authenticity and delivery.
What do you enjoy doing the most when you’re off work?
I am a very fortunate lady in that I have the company of my three fabulous children to look forward to – and I love to travel and learn with them. But for my own time, I enjoy dipping back into my original career path as a singer – and getting back into the recording studios as often as possible.