Women’s Industry Groups: Who are they and why do we need them?
As a part of the lead up to International Women’s Day this Saturday we at darc want to reiterate some of the women in design industry groups we work alongside, discuss the impact they’re making and why joining or supporting such groups are important to everyone.
Women’s industry networking groups are crucial for providing a supportive space to address gender-specific challenges, promote mentorship, and foster career growth. In many industries, particularly those dominated by men, which is most, women face barriers such as pay gaps, lack of representation in leadership, and limited mentorship opportunities.
Industry networks for women help break the cycle of work inequality by connecting them with role models, providing guidance, and encouraging career advancement. Additionally, they create a safe environment to discuss workplace issues, such as gender bias and work-life balance, without judgment. While some criticise these groups for being exclusionary, advocates argue that they are necessary to drive meaningful change, increase diversity in leadership, and inspire future generations of women in the workforce.
Women in Lighting (WIL)…
WIL is a global digital platform dedicated to showcasing and celebrating women in the lighting and lighting design industry. Through storytelling, social activism, and a strong online presence, WIL highlights achievements, challenges unconscious bias, and inspires the next generation. Supported by ambassadors in 75+ countries, the initiative fosters a connected international community, offering resources, local and global initiatives, an annual conference on 8 March, and an awards programme to recognise excellence in the field.
Established in 2019, by Martin Lupton and Sharon Stammers, the duo, known as Light Collective, are committed to documenting and celebrating all things light and all that it empowers. The Women in Lighting organisation has documented essential research into gender imbalances in the industry including a global survey in 2023 examining the lighting profession’s equity and opening discussions on how to change this.
Women in Office Design (WOD)…
Another close collaborator with [d]arc media, WOD is a global platform for female architects and designers to collaborate, connect and create. The groups goals are dedicated to promoting professional growth, leadership and connecting other design individuals with the goal of empowering women in their professional roles.
Founded by interior designer Harsha Kotak in May 2018, Kotak noticed the disparity in numbers of women executives in the workplace design industry and these statistics were surprising, if not disconcerting. She poses the question at many event gatherings; what do we want our industry to look like and how do we get there?
Women in Architecture (WIA)…
A dedicated group of women from diverse backgrounds working to promote equity and inclusion in architecture. Led by a committed steering group and supported by a wider committee, ambassadors, and industry collaborators, WIA drives initiatives such as mentoring and networking events.
Reformed in 2018 following the documentary ‘She Draws: She Builds’, WIA gained momentum alongside the #MeToo movement, expanding its outreach and advocacy. Today, it continues to champion female architects through events, mentorship, and community-building efforts across the UK and beyond. Through community-building, policy advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration, WIA aims to create a more inclusive profession. In 2024, its focus includes expanding networks, shifting work culture, and strengthening mentorship. WIA remains committed to evolving its mission to meet the challenges of the profession.
Women in Furniture Network (WFN)…
A networking group curated for women in the furniture industry to learn, connect, and share their ideas. Created in conjunction with ‘The Furniture Show’, the platform was created with the belief that whatever position you hold in the furniture industry women should be offered a supportive space to thrive and grow professionally.
WFN offers a mentorship programme where people in the furniture industry can connect with mentors who are at the top of their field, providing guidance and tips as well as their own stories of rising through adversity.
www.thefurnitureshows.com/women-in-furniture
In previous years, [d]arc media has collaborated closely with these industry groups to create a platform for meaningful discussions on gender issues. In 2024, alongside LiGHT24, we explored how men can actively serve as allies in amplifying women’s voices and fostering a more inclusive industry.
Building on the success of last year’s event, [d]arc media are proud to host the second edition of the Women in Design industry group brunch at Clerkenwell Design Week on 22 May in London on as part of Design Meets. Follow darc’s social media to keep in the loop on upcoming details on the event and register for Clerkenwell Design at https://www.clerkenwelldesignweek.com/darc-invite
Click here to follow us on Instagram
Click here to follow us on linked in
