ASKING FOR A FRIEND - CATEGORY

Diversity, inclusion & ethics

The creative industry likes to think of itself as progressive, but let’s be honest… we’re still a long way from true equality and inclusion. This category leans into the conversations we don’t always have out loud. The ones about male-dominated leadership teams, unconscious bias, condescending comments, and the quiet struggles of advocating for invisible disabilities at work.

Maybe you’re wondering how to get ahead as a woman in advertising. Maybe you’re tired of people making assumptions about your skills based on your appearance. Or maybe you’re trying to make something meaningful happen on International Women’s Day and wondering if anyone’s actually listening. Here you’ll find grounded, practical advice from industry leaders and mental health experts who’ve been there, covering everything from setting boundaries and finding allies to building confidence and pushing for systemic change.

Because doing great work should never mean tolerating inequality or being diminished by outdated attitudes. Your voice matters, your expertise matters, and your impact can outlast you. These conversations are here to help you hold the door open — for yourself, and for those who’ll walk through it after you

Featured

I’m a female art director. Our leadership team is stacked with men. How do I make CD?

Strategic advice for female creatives navigating all-male leadership teams and working towards creative director roles in advertising and design agencies.

Industry Leader
Wez Hawes

ECD

Innocean

Mental Health Expert
Katie Feder

How do you politely and firmly tell male industry peers not to refer to yourself and colleagues as girls?

Tired of being called "girls" at work? Learn how to shut down condescending language with expert strategies that actually work.

Industry Leader
Wez Hawes

ECD

Innocean

Mental Health Expert
Katie Feder

How do I talk to an employer about invisible disabilities and not be judged or accused of oversharing?

Learn how to talk to employers about invisible disabilities without being judged. Expert advice on timing, boundaries, and finding supportive workplaces.

Industry Leader
Jasmin Bedir

Mental Health Expert
Tara Hurster

All Questions

Why is advertising still a boys club?

Wondering why advertising still feels like a boys club? Industry leaders share honest insights on gender balance, workplace culture, and change.

Industry Leader
Simon Lee

CCO & Partner

The Hallway

Mental Health Expert
Aimee Davies

Mental Health Educator and Counsellor

The Hey Mate Project

Is it worth doing more for the
International Women's Day in a
workplace where most men don't care?

Feeling burnt out pushing for change on International Women’s Day? Here’s how to know when your efforts are worth it, and when it’s okay to take a break.

Industry Leader
Nick Hunter

Founder

Paper Moose

Mental Health Expert
Caitlin Thamm

How do I get ahead as a woman in a company where most leaders are men?

Expert advice on advancing as a woman in male-dominated creative companies. Practical strategies for self-belief, networking, and challenging bias.

Industry Leader
Shane Geffen

Mental Health Expert
Ben Searle