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Celebrating Global Diversity Every Month: How Women in Pro AV Lead the Way

Published: November 21, 2024
Davide Angelini / stock.adobe.com

As we head towards the end of 2024, I dive into a retrospect of what’s still amazes me about my sistas in the pro AV business. Every October, Global Diversity Month prompts many organizations and individuals to reflect on the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. However, the truth is that diversity isn’t a one-month event; it’s a continuous commitment that enriches every industry, including the professional audiovisual (pro AV) sector. Women in the pro AV industry exemplify this commitment, displaying how diverse perspectives drive innovation and foster success throughout the year.

The Importance of Diversity in the Pro AV Industry

Diversity encompasses various dimensions, including gender, ethnicity, age, ability and more. Diversity is not just about what you can “see,” it’s about the unseen, as well. In the pro AV industry, a diverse workforce brings together a multitude of viewpoints, experiences and ideas, all essential for problem-solving and creativity. The rapidly evolving nature of technology demands that companies adapt quickly, and diverse teams are better equipped to navigate these changes.

Despite the industry’s challenges, women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles and influencing the direction of the pro AV sector. Their contributions not only enhance the quality of work but also inspire a culture of inclusivity that encourages collaboration and innovation. As I continuously say, inclusion does not mean exclusion.

Women Leading by Example

Women in the pro AV industry are actively shaping the landscape, proving that diversity is not just a goal but a driving force for success. Here are a few ways in which women are demonstrating global diversity every month:

  1. Championing Diverse Perspectives: Women leaders in pro AV, such as Gina Sansivero of AtlasIED, are advocating for diverse hiring practices and creating inclusive workplaces. By valuing different perspectives, they foster an environment where creativity thrives.
  2. Mentoring the Next Generation: Many women in the industry are committed to mentorship, providing guidance and support to young professionals. Organizations like WAVIT and other industry networks are dedicated to connecting experienced women with those just starting out, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is well-equipped to contribute to a diverse workforce.
  3. Driving Change in Organizational Culture: Women in leadership positions are key to driving cultural change within their organizations. They implement policies that promote flexibility, work-life balance and equal opportunities, which benefit everyone in the workplace.
  4. Showcasing Success Stories: By sharing their experiences and success stories, women in the pro AV industry inspire others to pursue careers in technology and audiovisual fields. Celebrating these achievements not only highlights the importance of diversity but also encourages companies to prioritize inclusivity.

Strategies for Embracing Diversity Year-Round

While October serves as a reminder to focus on diversity, it’s crucial for organizations to integrate diversity and inclusion into their daily practices. Here are some strategies that pro AV companies can implement to embrace diversity every month:

  • Continuous Education and Training: Provide ongoing training on diversity, equity and inclusion for all employees to foster an understanding of different perspectives and reduce unconscious bias.
  • Create Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Establish ERGs to provide support and networking opportunities for underrepresented groups within the organization.
  • Celebrate Diversity Initiatives: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate diversity initiatives and milestones throughout the year, highlighting the contributions of women and other minority groups in the workplace.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Create forums for open dialogue about diversity and inclusion, allowing employees to share their experiences and suggestions for improvement.

While Global Diversity Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of diversity, it’s essential to recognize that the commitment to inclusivity and equity should permeate every month of the year. Women in the pro AV industry are not only proponents of this diversity; they are leading by example and driving transformative change in their organizations. By celebrating and embracing diversity continuously, the pro AV industry can foster a culture of innovation and collaboration that propels the sector forward, ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table.


Althea Ricketts is vice president of corporate initiatives at Shure.

Posted in: Insights

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