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By Women Automotive Network
As the Women Automotive Network, we are proud advocates for inclusivity and equity in the automotive industry. This International Men’s Day, we reflect on the pivotal role allyship and sponsorship play in driving progress. Celebrating this day offers a meaningful opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of male allies and highlight the collective efforts required to create a more equitable and thriving industry.
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While much progress has been made in championing diversity and empowering women, true equity demands partnership. International Men’s Day isn’t just a celebration of men’s contributions—it’s a chance to inspire conversations about how men and women can work together to build a more inclusive future.
In an industry traditionally populated by men, shifting dynamics require understanding, collaboration, and advocacy. International Men’s Day reminds us of the importance of shared responsibilities, where everyone has a role in fostering positive change.
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At the recent Women Automotive Summit Europe (8th October 2024, in Ludwigsburg), attendees shared their vision for what they believe is needed to see improvement within the automotive industry. Three themes emerged as priorities for industry transformation: SPONSORSHIP, ALLYSHIP and MENTORING.
Allyship is more than words; it’s actionable support. Male allies in the automotive industry can make an impact by:
“Anyone can be an ally. Men, in particular, have a tremendous opportunity to provide a positive impact – especially in male-dominated contexts, industries & companies. We all have biases… all of us. By having men as part of the conversation, it helps create greater awareness around these biases and forces conversations that will create new beliefs, new actions and new, better and more positive results for everyone… I mean… truly, everyone.”
Stephen Livingston, Co-Chair Women of Ford, Ford Motor Company
Unlike mentorship, which focuses on guidance, sponsorship requires actively endorsing and advocating for individuals. Male sponsors in leadership positions can help women and underrepresented groups gain visibility, secure promotions, and access critical opportunities. By sponsoring diverse talent, leaders pave the way for sustainable change. Congratulations again to this year’s Allyship Award Winner, Alan Johnson, Senior Vice President, Region Manufacturing & Supply Chain, Nissan AMIEO, who has actively endorsed a number of actions, including the implementation of unconscious bias training for the executive team.
The automotive industry faces significant challenges, from navigating technological disruptions to addressing talent shortages. Solving these problems requires diverse perspectives and unified efforts. When allyship and sponsorship become integral to our industry’s culture, we unlock the full potential of our workforce.
By fostering inclusive leadership and encouraging collaboration across gender lines, we can shape an industry that reflects the diverse world it serves. This doesn’t just benefit women—it benefits everyone by cultivating innovation, creativity, and growth.
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On this International Men’s Day, we celebrate male allies who are committed to breaking down barriers and championing diversity. To the leaders, innovators, and change-makers: let this day serve as a reminder that allyship is a journey, not a destination.
To our Women Automotive Network members and partners: let’s continue to promote allyship and sponsorship as the cornerstones of a brighter future. Together, we can drive meaningful change for an inclusive automotive industry.
Let’s celebrate, collaborate, and accelerate progress—today and every day.
#BetterTogether #WomeninAutomotive #WomenAutomotiveNetwork #Allyship #Sponsorship
Find out more:
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