It is not often that we see women leading production lines, managing supply chains or operating heavy machinery. This is a direct result of enduring gender biases and established norms, confining women to certain roles based on dated perceptions of strength and skill.In the pursuit of strategic growth within male-dominated sectors, the cornerstone lies in fostering an inclusive culture through a focused and mindful approach. 

However, there's been an evident shift in recent years. Women are stepping up, taking on these roles, and changing the narratives that have been in place for years. By contesting the traditional definitions of competence and skill, they are debunking the myth that certain roles belong exclusively to a specific gender. This shift in the manufacturing industry signifies a larger transformation toward an era of greater inclusivity and empowerment, underscoring women's valuable contributions across all sectors.

At HCCB, our pursuit of inclusivity revolves around rewriting narratives and unlocking the unmitigated potential of women within manufacturing. Women in HCCB are not only reshaping norms but also redefining strength, skill, and leadership. Their journey in traditionally male-dominated roles serves not as an exception, but as a tribute to what can be achieved when we truly #InspireInclusion.

The need to inspire inclusion in manufacturing 

Historically, the manufacturing sector was seen as a field suited primarily for men, due to the perceived ‘strength’ it requires, however, true strength goes beyond gender. By creating a workplace where women can excel in these roles, we challenge these outdated rules directly. Why? Because bringing different perspectives into manufacturing is vital. A diverse team means more creativity, better problem-solving, and ultimately, more innovation.

Within HCCB, we see real stories of change. Women are not just participating; they're leading the way as production executives, forklift operators, and sales experts. They are proof that ability is about skill, determination, and leadership qualities developed through facing challenges head-on, no matter the doubts or stereotypes they may encounter.

Celebrating International Women's Month at HCCB's factories

HCCB's factories across India celebrated International Women's Month with extreme enthusiasm and joy, illustrating the spirit of #InspireInclusion through an array of activities. Celebrations included specialised training programs on leadership, inclusion and personal growth, sports activities and team-building exercises towards breaking traditional barriers. Extending impact beyond the factory, HCCB team members also mentored students at a nearby girls’ school to discuss their career aspirations 

Empowering women professionals

At HCCB, we champion various initiatives like the Women Inspired Network, sponsored by women leaders, which facilitates networking, sharing experiences and building meaningful relationships with each other; targeted programs like LIFT - Leveraging & Inspiring Female Talent which empowers our women leaders to mentor future women talent seeking opportunities within our organisation and STEP-UP - a professional growth program for​ early career​ women professionals​. Our direct grievance-sharing channel, VOYC, empowers female associates with a platform to openly share challenges and concerns. Additionally, initiatives such as Men as Allies and Embrace Equity, through interactive workshops, build awareness and sensitise associates towards embracing differences and thriving together, exemplifying our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Benefits from these initiatives include -

Fostering professional relationships 

The workshops serve as a platform for establishing professional connections and also with the senior leadership of HCCB. Mutual rapport building leads to strong working relationships in the future.

Opening doors to mentorship

By connecting early-career women with senior leaders, there's an opportunity for mentorship. These mentors can provide guidance, and support, and share their experiences.

Promoting a culture of support

These programs foster a supportive culture and a platform for interactive exchange. Employees can lean on each other for advice, share unique experiences, and learn from each other's journeys.

Enhancing learning through peer interaction

By connecting with peers from diverse functions and regions, participants can gain a wider perspective, and learn about different roles and challenges faced in those roles, ultimately enhancing their overall professional understanding.

Boosts visibility and influence

Networking within the organisation boosts visibility, especially for early-career women. It enables them to showcase their skills and thus creates a positive impression that can enhance their career advancement.

Through women empowerment initiatives we create spaces for networking, sharing, providing women with an opportunity to grow, learn and lead within their respective roles. These efforts actively instigate change, paving the way for inclusivity.

Why does inspiring inclusion matter beyond our walls? 

Inspiring inclusion through concerted efforts to empower women within HCCB has implications that are far beyond the confines of our company 

Achieving gender parity

By providing opportunities for women to take on leadership roles in manufacturing, we can directly address gender disparity. This bolsters the wider movement towards achieving gender equality in every sector and shows that jobs in manufacturing are not exclusive to any gender.

Driving economic growth

Empowering women in different sectors significantly contributes to economic growth. Multiple studies have indicated that increasing female participation in the workforce leads to higher aggregate productivity. By tapping into this underutilised talent pool, we can foster economic growth not just for a company, but on a larger scale.

Promoting sustainable development

Efforts for inclusivity align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. By paving the way for gender equality, we can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world.

Catalysing industry-wide change

Initiatives for women's empowerment create a benchmark that inspires other companies to incorporate similar inclusive and diversity-promoting practices. This can lead to industry-wide change, progressively eradicating gender biases.

Social empowerment

From a community perspective, initiatives like the digital and financial literacy program and other women empowerment initiatives, actively contribute to empowering women in the society at large. This promotes societal progress by equipping women to have a stronger say in their career choices, financial decisions, and overall lives.

Paving the way for a more inclusive tomorrow

This International Women's Month, as we reflect on the strides made, we also look ahead. These women empowerment initiatives have laid a solid foundation, sparking important dialogues about the importance of inclusivity. Amidst the bustling production lines, the clinks of bottles, and the buzz of machinery, there is an undeniable sense of progress with women growing stronger, taking the lead, and inspiring others.

Looking ahead

This International Women's Month, our commitment to #InspireInclusion shines as we look to the future. As we celebrate the achievements of women, we also urge all to introspect and confront inherent biases. Together, let's support women's progress in every arena.