Episode 2: Christina Yiakkoupis – Chair of NAWIC Australia
Let’s get loud! On speaking up and insisting industry and government do better
The Leaky Pipeline - a NAWIC podcast · Broad Radio
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Show Notes
Christina had her heart set on becoming an Architect. When a University Careers Counselor saw she had Physics and Maths subjects she was offered a scholarship for Engineering that was too compelling to refuse. She now loves the diversity of her career and reflects on the significant improvements that she has observed in the industry.
On creating cultural shift in construction, change happens from the top. Boldly calling upon government to implement targets and quotas, Christina says this is important because it starts conversation. It’s a catalyst for business to do better, to not only attract but retain women.
“Let’s be very clear,” Christina says, about bullying and gender bias: “It’s not ok, never was ok, never will be ok.”
On confronting sexist comments Christina is often met with “It’s just a phrase”. Christina doesn’t back down and there is no bystander effect for her. She calls it out, urges us all to do the same and tell people to find another way to express themself. Christina says we all can be the tiny steps toward cultural shift.
In her career Christina now feels empowered, and she feels much more confident to speak up. She observes people are much more aware of the misconceptions that women can’t do a lot of trade roles. Advances in technology mean ‘it’s no longer ok to be out there on your own lifting 50kg’. Safety is for all people. Now the work environment has changed so much, it’s safer for everyone.
On getting to 25% participation by 2025 Christina says all organisations need to look at what they are doing and do better. She encourages women to be more visible, be louder!
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