We’re not doing enough when it comes to women’s representation in advertising: Experts

Continuing with the slew of Knowledge Seminars on Day 3 at Goafest 2023, News18 Network presented yet another Knowledge Seminar, titled ‘IAA - Voice of Change on Gender Bias’. The session was moderated by Megha Tata, CEO, Cosmos Maya India. The panellists included:

Anupriya Acharya, CEO Publicis Groupe, South Asia

Kailashnath Adhikari, Business Head, Sri Adhikari Brothers Network

Lata Venkatesh, Executive Editor, CNBC TV18

Tarun Katial, Founder & CEO, Coto

In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing battle, this gathering of diverse minds held the key to fostering lasting change. Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking insights, the panel delved deep into the pervasive issue of gender bias and its multifaceted impact on our societies.

Megha Tata began this session with a presentation of an interesting study about the realities of women’s representation in advertising. Anupriya Acharya mentioned, “We are clearly not doing enough, we have progressed over the last 20 years, but it is only the tip of the iceberg. Awareness and education are key.”

Tarun Katial added here, “Unfortunately the stereotyping of women has been very harsh.” He went on to give several examples, national and international, where this case has been witnessed. 

Unanimously, the panel agreed that merit needs to be the driving force and that the change needs to begin at home in the way we teach and treat our children. The panellists also stressed on the need to create a future where everyone’s potential knows no boundaries, irrespective of gender. The discussion uncovered the immense potential that lies in questioning established norms, pushing boundaries, and embracing the unconventional.