Why more men should join the conversation on women in leadership

Here's why we need more men to join the conversation on women in leadership.

At last year’s Women in Leadership conference, we noticed something important: very few men were in the room.

This year, we want to change that.

Gender equity in leadership is not just a women’s issue. It is a shared responsibility. Real progress happens when all voices are part of the conversation.

Here is why your presence matters, and how you can help build more inclusive leadership across our sector:

Leadership equity benefits everyone

When men participate in conversations about gender equity, it helps create more inclusive and respectful workplaces. It also drives meaningful cultural change at every level.

Supporting women in leadership is not about meeting a quota or ticking a box. It is a strategic decision. Organisations with diverse leadership perform better, are more innovative, and enjoy stronger team morale. Everyone benefits.

Shared learning and allyship

Men in leadership roles, or those who aspire to lead, have an important role as allies. Attending the Women in Leadership conference is an opportunity to:

Understand the barriers women face
Reflect on unconscious bias
Learn how to be an active and effective advocate for equity

You do not need to have all the answers. What matters is showing up, listening, and being open to learning.

Stronger, more diverse leadership for the sector

At DSC, we believe that meaningful social change happens when diverse voices are heard and valued. By encouraging more people to attend the conference, we create space for richer conversations and stronger outcomes.

Inclusive leadership is not just good for women. It is good for the entire voluntary and community sector.