Women Changing the World – International Women’s Day 2020

“Always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what you believe in. And, when you stumble, keep faith. And, when you’re knocked down, get right back up and never listen to anyone who says you can’t or shouldn’t go on.”

—Hillary Rodham Clinton

Gender equality is a dream – a dream that has cost undue pain and suffering. While many companies around the world aspire to elude sexual discrimination. There are still many obstacles that have prevented them from achieving what they aspire. In an attempt to erase the stigma attached to working women, there have been numerous campaigns around the world. Campaigns to end the screaming sexism – some successful, some in vain. 

Women Above & Beyond

While some women succeed to rise, there are many who fall back due to the challenges hurled towards them.  Even though, in some parts of the world, the issues may be greater than others. The challenges are somewhat the same. As more and more women are entering the corporate world, their talent and skill have begun to shine through. 

A study conducted by the Harvard Business Review found out that women were ranked higher than men when it came to leadership competencies. Further research carried out by the BI Norwegian Business School has concluded that women were better leaders than their counterparts as summarized here by the Independent.

Women Based Start-ups 2020

In an effort to honour women on International Women’s Day, we have compiled a list of startup’s that were set by women. These women against all odds were able to spark a difference at a global level and inspire those around them.

1. Pandia Health

Pandia Health is a passionate, women-led business who’s main aim is to make birth control affordable and accessible for women all over the world. The organization is on a mission to eradicate the health problems faced by women during birth control and labour. They are doing this through affordable telehealth, prescription fulfilment etc. 

2. WEConnect International

WEConnect International is a worldwide network that connects women-owned businesses to buyers, across the globe. The company has the vision to give women a chance to enjoy the same opportunities as their male counterparts. In an effort to achieve this vision. WEConnect has helped countless women build and expand their businesses. 

3. CloQ

CloQ provides nano credit facility and financial literacy. They are a beacon of hope for those who are struggling to get a legal alternative to attain loans. CloQ aims to protect people from the vicious cycle of debt and loans. 

4. AdmitSee

Admitsee is a startup that aims to make the college application process more transparent and smoother. They are on a mission to empower students, irrespective of their past academic experiences. The startup has helped more students to gain access to university. This has helped them shape their dreams into reality. 

5. Hopscotch

Hopscotch is on a mission to create an environment for children that helps them learn the programming language. The founders wish to introduce children to the world of programming. Hopscotch itself is an application that helps kids learn to code in a fun and entertaining way

6. 10Power

10Power is a social impact company that invests in renewable energy projects which can be paid back over time. Their efforts have resulted in access to a clean source of power. This women-based startup has the vision to eradicate poverty, gender empowerment, affordable and clean energy for everyone. The company is also making a conscious effort to minimize climate change.

Challenges Faced By Working Women

While most of the women above were able to create a difference in the fast-moving corporate world. They had to undergo several obstacles to be where they are today. Let’s discuss some of the challenges faced by working women, today.

1. The Struggle to Keep a Balance

According to research, women roughly form about 44% of the workforce. More than 90% of women are unable to find a balance between their home and work life. As a result, they wish to avail the benefit of flexible working hours.

2. Gender Pay Gap

The gender pay gap is a real issue that women from even the most developed countries of the world are facing today. A global report has concluded that every 4 in 10 women have faced an issue regarding the pay gap. Simply because they are a female. Whatever reasons that have contributed to this. The pay gap is a threat to working women and their economic stability. 

3. Harassment

Harassment at work continues to be a big issue for working women in the UK and all over the world. More than half of the working women have faced some form of harassment at the workplace.

4. Career Opportunities

Many companies perceive that men are better employees as compared to women. As a result, they deny women the rightful career opportunities. Many talented women face this bias because of their gender.

Bottom Line

Starting a new business can be a daunting process. Unfortunately, it is even more challenging when you are a woman. Having a strong business foundation in place can play a major role in the success and failure of a business. Our Senior Director, Anam Rehman, has been helping women set up and develop businesses across the United Kingdom. She is a proud advocate and a strong believer in Women being in Business.

On International Women’s Day 2020, let’s celebrate women – Women of all colour, class, creed, and professions. 

Read our Startup Guide if you are thinking about starting a new business.

Clear House Accountants are Specialist Accountants in London. We believe having the right Accountant by your side will help you build a strong foundation for your business while making it scalable. We have helped a large number of businesses build smart solutions for their tax, accounting and growth needs.