Embracing Equality this International Women's Day

This year, the theme of International Women's Day is Accelerate Action, so we wanted to showcase how CrossCountry is challenging the inequalities that women and girls face. We value our colleagues - from on-board colleagues to leaders in the rail industry, CrossCountry is proud to have wonderful women representing us.

To celebrate International Women's Day, we are joined by our Customer Service Managers, Sarah, Erica, and Clare; and our Business Change Manager, Candice. These women have each overcome obstacles and use their talent and tenacity to become leaders in our industry.

Read on to discover how they reject gender-biased attitudes, believing in themselves and their potential instead.

As the world marks International Women’s Day, why is it important that we celebrate it in this industry?

Erica: It is about celebrating the many great women that we have working on the railway and sharing their stories, inspiring future generations to become a part of the railway and encouraging more women to apply for more roles across our industry.

Sarah: Traditionally, the rail industry has been male dominated and some still see it that way. It’s important to highlight the many women and their career successes to help demonstrate that rail is inviting to all individuals and their career aspirations.

Clare: International Women’s Day is a time when we can recognise and celebrate the fantastic achievements by women around the world. We empower each other to achieve what we want, and this isn’t restricted to professional achievements.

So, as someone who has experienced the industry first hand, why would you encourage other women to pursue it as a career?

Erica: I think the railway has always been historically seen as a male-dominated environment, and it used to be daunting to women to apply for certain roles, but that has changed. It is an interesting and exciting place to work with lots of opportunities throughout the industry to suit everyone.

Sarah: Traditionally, the rail industry has been male dominated and some still see it that way. It’s important to highlight the many women and their career successes to help demonstrate that rail is inviting to all individuals and their career aspirations.

With that being said, what advice would you then give to the women who want to pursue a career in rail?

Candice: Do it! Give it a try! This is a great industry with a vast variety of roles available; there is always more to learn. If you do join the industry, my biggest piece of advice would be to get yourself a mentor. Someone to bounce ideas off, open opportunities for you and help you to grow your network.

Sarah: Be yourself, believe in yourself and stretch your capabilities. I’ve had both mentors and coaching to help me build my confidence, strategic thinking and leadership strength. Drawing on others experience has been very beneficial.

Empowered women empower women. So, as we celebrate the women in our workforce, which women have inspired you the most?

Candice: Easy answer - my mum! My mother is the most efficient, fast-paced woman that I know and has an outstanding ability to juggle several priorities at the same time. Throughout her life she has set up several of her own start-up businesses, become an absolute specialist in her area of work within the Middle East where my parents live. She always has more than one job on the go at a time and yet somehow found time to bring up three children. I will always look up to my mum's ability to make the most out of every day and do so with compassion, determination, and time for other people.

Clare: I have always been inspired by women who are not afraid to show who they are and work hard to achieve what they want even when faced with adversity. They have helped shape who I am today, shown me how to be compassionate, humble, and resilient.

Sarah: Nisha Katona, previously a successful child protection barrister, to then entering the restaurant business. She holds an MBE, has 18 restaurants across the UK and featured on many popular television channels. Nisha is a fine example of demonstrating how you follow your dreams and that you can be successful should you choose to change your career path.