On September 25th, the Dive In Festival and the launch of the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance took place at PGGM in Zeist. We look back on an exhilarating event with a lively and engaged audience. It was an afternoon filled with powerful insights, personal stories, and reflection on the steps that still need to be taken toward gender equality and inclusion.
Nelsy Salden, WIFS board member, acted as moderator, welcoming various speakers and guests. Together with Lars Dijkstra (PGGM), she opened the program. Lars’ powerful words set the stage for an inspiring afternoon of fresh perspectives: "Everyone talks about D&I, but inclusion comes first, and diversity follows. The reverse is much more complex."
The Importance of Male Allyship
Keynote speaker Robert Baker emphasized this during his address: gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it’s a human issue. He quoted Gloria Steinem:
"Once men realize that gender roles are a prison for them too, they become really valuable allies. Because they’re not just helping someone else, they’re freeing themselves."
Baker underlined the need for men to be active allies, not just spectators. While women still face obstacles such as gender bias, exclusion from networks, and the gender pay gap, men can help break down these challenges. The question to the audience was clear: “What is your commitment to action?” This challenge sparked valuable discussions during the break. Curious to learn more about the importance of male-allyship? We wrote an extensive LinkedIn post about it.
Launch of the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance
Rinke Zonneveld, a jury member for the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance, shared an honest reflection after Baker's keynote: "I thought I was a good ally, but there is much more work to be done." On behalf of the entire jury—consisting of Marguerite Soeteman-Reijnen (chair), Cindy van Oorschot, Nicolette Loonen, Faisal Setoe, Stephan Veen, and himself—Rinke proudly launched the Top 50 Women in Sustainable Finance 2024.
Inspiring Stories from Top 50 Nominees
Geraldine Leegwater and Chantal Inen, both Top 50 nominees, brought their personal stories to life, focusing on leadership, sustainability, and inclusion. Their stories showed that inclusion is not only about equality but also an essential component of effective leadership.
A Call for Confidence
On a day like this, it was vital to recognize the strength of women. Seada van den Herik expressed it perfectly: "You don’t need to step back with the thought 'maybe someone else can do it better'; take your place." This powerful call for self-confidence was supported by a tribute to departing WIFS board members Diana Zandbergen and Mirelle van Gemert, and the newly appointed board members, Chantal Korteweg (chair) and Indra Frishert (vice-chair).
The New WIFS Leadership
During an inspiring conversation with moderator Nelsy Salden, Chantal Korteweg (chair) and Indra Frishert (vice-chair) shared their vision for the future of WIFS. Their energy and determination made it clear that WIFS' mission is in good hands.
We not only look back on a celebration of female role models but also reflect on the steps that still need to be taken for greater inclusion, diversity, and gender equality. Together, we continue to strive for a financial sector that is as inclusive and diverse as our society, step by step.
Photo's: ©LOPKE FOTOGRAFIE