Hounslow Councillor Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Communities, hosted an inspiring virtual forum earlier this month to celebrate International Women’s Day and Brentford FC were proud to be part of it through the involvement of Non-Executive Board Member, Monique Choudhuri. Business representatives from across the borough came together to discuss how to tackle unconscious bias and how to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive society.

Monique joined the Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council, Councillor Lily Bath, Mandy Skinner, Assistant Chief Executive of Hounslow Council and other business leaders to discuss the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, which was all about ‘breaking the bias’.

At the event, Monique spoke about her own experience of tackling unconscious bias. She said: “As a specialist consultant in inclusive leadership and cultures, I have seen first-hand how biases – particularly unconscious biases – are ingrained in workplaces.

“Breaking the bias is no easy task. It is only through a seismic cultural shift that we can make change happen. The fact Brentford FC are hosting a series of matches for the Women’s Euros is just one example of us breaking these biases and showcasing the very best football talent.

“Another example is how we have pushed to have a more diverse board; we know that with diversity you benefit from a wide range of experiences, backgrounds and multiple perspectives.”

Cllr Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We can’t make meaningful change happen without having open and honest conversations about the biases – and often discrimination – women face.

“This forum illuminated the fantastic progress women have made in politics, business and public life – often overcoming multiple barriers to achieve success. However, what we really need to do is ensure these barriers are removed for future generations.”