Driving action and inclusion during women's month

How useful is a conversation about equality if nobody hears it? At MCB, that conversation is turning into concrete change. The recent Equal Salary certification confirms a long-standing engagement on closing the gender pay gap and establishing a fairer work environment. This foundation paved the way for something new this year: a bold expansion from International Women’s Day to a full Women’s Month—a shift that marks the arrival of MCB’s newly appointed Culture & DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) team. The team led a series of activities designed to uplift women and spark lasting change. Because change does not happen on its own. It is the result of action—real, purposeful action.

The Culture & DEI team is driving a shift toward a more inclusive workplace, working to dismantle barriers to growth for everyone, without exception. They have already launched several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to provide safe spaces for meaningful discussion and networking, so everyone feels supported and empowered.

By tackling diversity issues and promoting well-being, the team is fostering an environment where collaboration and new ideas can thrive. This was the spirit behind Women’s Month.

A theme rooted in action

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘Accelerate Action’, resonated deeply with the team and led them to focus on concrete steps to bridge gaps and empower women in the workplace. This pragmatic approach was fueled by the belief that driving progress is a collective responsibility that needs to include everyone.

As stated by Shakila Badouraly, DEI Lead, “This initiative serves as both a reminder and a call to action year-round. I firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to creating a more fulfilling and productive work environment”.

Beyond celebration

Throughout the month, the programme featured a dynamic mix of sessions that equipped the attendees with new skills and fresh insights. The topics ranged from financial independence and work challenges to enhancing professional visibility with innovative tools.

The workshops also covered essential life skills like self-defense and basic car maintenance, along with discussions on often overlooked aspects of women’s health. Rounding off the experience was a new episode of the MCB Talk Podcast and a cocktail event, reflecting a strong collective commitment to empower women in all areas of life.

For our colleagues, by our colleagues

By the end of Women’s Month, it was clear that the initiative had ignited sparks and created a shift in the way we think, work, and support one another. Colleagues forged stronger bonds and renewed their shared commitment to gender equality.

Yet what truly made this month special was the people behind it. While MCB Culture & DEI team did an incredible job, the real magic was in the hundreds of employees from various departments and subsidiaries who joined in to make it happen, echoing MCB CEO’s sentiment: “for our colleagues, by our colleagues.”

What’s next for MCB Culture & DEI team?

In the same spirit, MCB Wellness team, part of the Culture & DEI team followed up by launching the Health Month in April with both in-person and virtual sessions. This format ensures that colleagues across the group can participate regardless of location, addressing both collective and individual needs through diverse themes and topics about physical well-being.

Future initiatives will take the form of regular training, networking sessions, and ongoing campaigns to support growth and inclusion across all levels of the organisation. These efforts intend to build on the momentum of Women's Month and lead toward a healthier and more inclusive workplace.

By centering the discussion on actionable steps and encouraging everyone to play an active role, MCB Culture & DEI Team has laid the groundwork for future progress. With every event, every shared story, and every small victory, MCB is building a culture of mutual respect, growth, and transformation.