KEYNOTE

We ALL have a role to play —

When the topic of gender equality is referred to as a “woman’s issue” then it will never be a priority. This is a human issue, and we ALL have a role to play.

The “Pioneers in Skirts” award-winning filmmakers use storytelling and scenes from the film to show your audience why and how we, as individuals, can choose to be more inclusive. We understand that some people’s journey of realizing their own biases may start with viewing our film or keynote presentation, so we lead with kindness. There is no blame or finger-pointing. And, as the audience starts to see their personal role in both the problem and the solution, we move towards solutions and encourage them to take action. After all – we CAN do this together.

Key Takeaways:

• Techniques for being more vigilant about the perpetuating bias & sexism in the culture we live, work, and learn in
• The approach we can take to be better allies for women, and all under-represented groups
• How to shift from the feeling of “wanting to do something about it” into everyday action.

KEYNOTE

At the age of 27, Ashley Maria’s dream for her directing career was quickly eroding. After years of working in the industry and receiving her Masters in Cinematic Arts, Ashley was shocked to experience the stereotypes surrounding her every time she was referred to as a “woman-director.” She never thought it would happen to her.

The “Pioneers in Skirts” award-winning filmmakers use a multi-generational storytelling approach, and scenes from the film, to share their story of why they had to make their film, and what it took to empower Ashley to take back her career aspirations and become the director she always dreamed of being.

Key Takeaways:

• What happens to young women to make them feel burned-out soon after starting out in their careers
• What to do when confidence quickly turns into doubt and insecurity
• The best ways to support women who are confronted with unfair career-limiting obstacles and setbacks

KEYNOTE

All over the world, the pandemic has had a devastating impact on women. Many have been driven out of the workforce due to locked downs.  Their experiences at home, in their jobs, with their health, and their economic wellbeing have all been negatively affected. Clearly, we ALL must take steps to reverse the impact. 

The good news is: women aren’t waiting for you to fix this problem.

As the pandemic enters its third year, we’re starting to see that women are putting a new focus on their personal lives, careers, and roles in society.

• A recent survey of more than 100,000 people in 10 countries shows that women are coming out of the pandemic having had taken charge of their lives by re-skilling for white collar work, valuing more personal benefits, and mobilizing for social action.

The “Pioneers in Skirts” award-winning filmmakers use storytelling and scenes from the film to share empowering ideas for personally addressing the structural problems at work and the negative affects the pandemic has brought forward. 

Offering strategies for keeping careers on track, getting better salaries, having a work-life-blend career, and achieving professional growth — the audience will begin to empathize with what is forcing women out and what can be done to empower them to stay.

Key Takeaways:

• How employers can truly support their female employees and keep them from dropping off
• How to change the dialogue and mindset in support of today’s working woman
• How men can be better allies and stand with women

SYMPOSIUM

Kids 13 and up join the filmmakers for an interactive program about using one’s ambition to start a journey towards achieving their dream career!

The “Pioneers in Skirts” award-winning filmmakers lead an interactive program to demonstrate how to counter biases and nay-sayers and provide the building blocks we all need to take charge of our own “Pioneering Path.”

In the end, participants will see that the best goals are the ones that are important to us, and that when we personalize our goals, we are energized to keep going!

EDUCATORS and PARENTS use this program in a variety of settings as either a stand-alone activity or part of a larger unit on careers.

The program works great with middle school students to demonstrate YOU CAN DO ANYTHING. Older students engage in a discussion about the realities of our society’s work culture.

¤ Supplies Needed per Pioneer:

• If online, a computer with a camera, mic, and Internet connection
  • Headset with microphone optional
• Printer (for printing the worksheet)
• Pen or marker, any color  

¤ Supplies Provided by the Filmmakers:

• The Pioneer Path worksheet
• “I’m a Pioneer” digital decal