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programmes that require an equal number support and allies at work can be career-
of female and male candidates be a solu- changing for women.”
tion,” she asked. Talking about Hactl’s interventions in en-
She added, “For the industry to take a suring gender equality, Winnie Chan, execu-
stand and create a gender-equal working tive director – branding and communications
environment, we need a top-to-bottom ap- of Hactl noted that it is particularly important
proach where the leaders set the hiring goals to raise awareness about menstrual equity in
with an ambitious gender ratio. Women in our workplace, to help break the taboo and
air cargo, similarly to other industries, aspire misconceptions, and promote understand-
to take on leadership roles, and organisa- ing and wellbeing among staff.
tions must ensure that equal opportunities Their contribution In May 2023, Hactl launched the “Hactl
and a fair hiring process are in place. We, air x Free Periods Hong Kong – Be My Buddy
cargo professionals, must foster a culture of extends further as they Buddy” campaign, which included exhibi-
inclusion and diversity on all levels by having tions and talks about menstrual equity,
transparent, non-biased, non-discriminative share success stories held in the community, schools and Hactl’s
rules, but also offer support and help.” and serve as role models. SuperTerminal 1 base.
On the same line, Lawrence notes that the “Within our terminal, we now provide free
focus should be on establishing an inclusive Raising awareness about menstrual hygiene products and “Well-
professional environment that provides equal the diverse career paths ness Boxes”, containing items for relieving
opportunities for women in terms of growth, menstrual discomfort. These are placed in
leadership roles, and impactful contributions. within the industry can easy-to-access locations such as women’s
“This entails the implementation of policies washrooms and office pantries. As the
supporting work-life balance and the crea- play a crucial role in campaign’s lead sponsor, Hactl will continue
tion of mentorship programmes to facilitate attracting more women to work with Free Periods Hong Kong to
women's participation and advancement further promote period-friendly initiatives
within the air cargo industry,” she said. and encouraging them and gender equality, in schools, corpora-
“Companies across the air cargo spectrum to contribute their skills tions and the wider community throughout
should proactively review and update their 2024,” she said.
policies to eliminate gender-based barri- and expertise. Looking ahead, Amy Lam, chief sustainabil-
ers. This involves implementing fair hiring Michelle Lawrence ity officer of Hactl thinks that there is a bright
practices, emphasizing diversity in leader- Airline Services International future for women with the right mindset.
ship, and providing training to cultivate an She said, “The industry has been open-
inclusive organizational culture. Implement- to people feeling their careers will be limited. ing up to females and is more receptive to
ing mentorship programmes and tailored If cargo matters, then women matter. If we those who display passion. With advances in
networking opportunities for women can aren’t seeing a candidate pool in the first technology and automation, women can be
significantly contribute to their professional place with equal representation, we have to employed in a wider range of duties, and this
development. Moreover, companies should ask why. Throughout the logistics industry, is a golden opportunity for us to shine.”
actively participate in outreach programmes the organisations that are committed to the Meanwhile, she also argues that compa-
aimed at encouraging young women to development of talent, and that recognize nies should be prepared to provide appropri-
explore careers in air cargo,” she added. what is holding women back and seek to ate and relevant support in preparation for
She argues that the commitment to out- create inclusive cultures, are going to excel absorbing more women into the workforce.
reach is essential for fostering a sustainable in the long term and as a result, attract the “Some examples are flexible working
and balanced future for the industry. strongest candidates,” she said. hours, providing daycare for children, and
At American Airlines Cargo, Oliver pointed baby feeding facilities. It is also important to
A fundamental cultural shift out that they have created a group called promote gender equality in the workforce,
Diversity and inclusion have become a prior- Women of Cargo. through educational events and soft skills
ity for many air cargo companies which are “The group seeks to inspire women at all training workshops, she said.
implementing many initiatives to achieve levels and to create opportunity by ensuring Finding role models, organising mentor-
this cause. However what the industry and that the tools, resources and support neces- ship programmes and celebrating women in
women in the industry is calling for is a sary for success are made readily available air cargo can attract women to this industry
fundamental shift. to all levels of aspiration. Our mission is to which has the potential to completely
Oliver opines that for diversity, equity and forge inclusive work cultures where women change the global airfreight market as we
inclusion to become an intrinsic part of our can thrive and their achievements are cel- see it right now. Failing to do so could be
lives it has to be a cultural shift across the ebrated. Hearing from others and learning fatal for the industry’s future and organisa-
industry and at all levels. you aren’t alone is incredibly powerful. It is tions across the spectrum have a role to play
“Otherwise, this just feels like lip service just as important that we engage on the in terms of eliminating gender biases and
-- and then has the opposite effect of leading subject with our male colleagues – having fundamentally changing the culture. 
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