The Women’s Network plays an important role in creating opportunities to connect, share experiences and support one another. Through networking events, fundraising initiatives and development activities, it helps to strengthen relationships and foster a supportive environment.
We spoke with Tanya Scott, Women’s Network Leader at Dowty, about the network and its impact.
Reflecting on her four years as leader, Tanya highlights several stand out moments. Among them is the Nelson Trust Winter Appeal, a fundraising and donation appeal that brought colleagues across the business together during the festive season to support women and families in the local community.
The Nelson Trust, a charity local to Dowty’s UK headquarters in Gloucestershire, provides support for women facing extremely tough circumstances, including domestic abuse, addiction, trauma, and homelessness. Through the appeal, colleagues came together to create care packages for the Trust, wrapping gifts and building nursery equipment for the women and families supported by the refuge.
“Everyone came together to help”, Tanya explains. “From senior leaders to those on the shop floor, people across the site contributed their time to support the appeal.”
Delivering the donations to the refuge in Gloucester was a particularly meaningful moment for Tanya, who had the opportunity to meet some of the women and families supported by the charity.
“It was emotional, but also incredibly rewarding to see where our donations were going” she says. “I am beyond proud to have been part of the initiative.”
Global perspectives
Tanya was first approached to lead the Women’s Network at Dowty in 2022 after being recommended by her predecessor. Having already been involved in several of the network’s activities, from fun runs to fundraising events, stepping into the role marked a new chapter in her involvement.
“I had always enjoyed getting involved,” she says. “So when I was asked to take on the role, it felt like a great opportunity to give back.”
Taking on the position became a turning point in Tanya’s leadership journey. Over the past four years, leading the network has helped her grow in confidence while supporting others across the business.
“The Women’s Network has helped me connect with other people who have experienced similar moments of self-doubt. We aim to transform it into belief, empowering each other to step out of our comfort zones and drive our careers.”
Tanya also attended the cross-ERG Leadership Workshop in Milwaukee, USA, where she connected with fellow network leaders and shared experiences on both a personal and professional level.
“The UK & Ireland Women’s Network leaders are no longer just colleagues – I now see them as inspiring friends who I can turn to for guidance and support,” she says.
Meeting leaders from around the world also brought fresh ideas and inspiration.
“I met so many inspirational people at the event. I came away brimming with ideas of how we can evolve the Women’s Network at Dowty.”
At its core, the focus of the Women’s Network at Dowty is to maintain an inclusive environment, whether this is offering supportive networking events, or raising awareness of gender equity topics.
The importance of support networks
Outside of work, Tanya credits the support of family and friends with helping maintain her confidence and perspective. Whether it’s catching the nearest heavy metal concert or hosting her bi-monthly dinner parties with friends, she values the time spent connecting with those closest to her.
“Being surrounded by strong, supportive people has helped me grow in confidence and capability,” she says. “My children are also a key driving force, inspiring me to set a good example and to keep pushing myself in my career”.
Tanya says she is particularly thankful for the influence of her mother, who has played a significant role in shaping her career and outlook.
Tanya explains “My mother gave me the belief that I can achieve anything I put my mind to. When my imposter syndrome appears, she is the person I turn to for perspective and encouragement.”
Tanya is excited for the year ahead. Plans are already underway to continue building on its key initiatives, including the Mud Run, Children in Need, and the Easter and Winter appeals.
Alongside these activities, the network also aims to host a range of training sessions designed to further strengthen engagement across the organisation and within the wider community.
Related Posts
