Each year on March 8, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, a day that challenges us to break the bias, take action for equality, and make a difference. Throughout the month of March, MSCI’s Women’s Leadership Forum and Women in Tech ERGs organized over 30 global and local events, including book and panel discussions, fireside chats, workshops and networking events.

Read about some of the events that have taken place over the last few weeks:

Global events

On March 17th, the WLF hosted a fireside chat featuring Paula Volent, board member of MSCI. During the chat Paula talked about her career, from working as an art restorer to becoming the most successful Chief Investment Officer in the history of Bowdoin College. With a highly successful career behind her, she shared her experiences on bias she encountered and how she managed to overcome them. Paula also highlighted the importance of mentors during her career, and how having role models can help women to start their career in finance.

MSCI’s Women in Tech ERG launched a brand new Speaker Series to bring voices from the financial industry and our clients into MSCI. The goal of the series is to engage with the end-users of MSCI’s products, while celebrating the accomplishments of women in asset management and technology.

Local events

In Hong Kong, the WLF organized a one week Virtual Charity Run, encouraging colleagues, family and clients to run 5 kilometres and donate for a local non-profit organization. The event raised over 2,000 USD, which will help over 50 moms attend classes on entrepreneurship and how to start their own businesses and pursue their dreams.

The Budapest office hosted an interactive workshop on gender bias and how to overcome them, facilitated by professional trainers. During the session participants of both genders shared their experiences on bias they are facing, and the facilitators conducted exercises that highlighted the many similarities between women an men. Before the event, MSCI colleagues had the chance for to connect and network over a delicious brunch.

The local WLF chapter in India partnered with the Bombay Stock Exchange and UN Women for India for the second consecutive year for the Opening Bell Ringing ceremony for International Women’s Day. The multi-day event featured guest speakers and educational and networking events, with the objective to develop women leaders and inspire actions for a more inclusive future.

#BreakTheBias

In honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, listen to MSCI and some of our clients share what actions they are taking to #BreakTheBias and forge gender equality for a more diverse, equitable and inclusive world.