To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re putting the spotlight on some of the most inspiring women in the creative industries on The Dots.
Over the rest of the week, we’ll be highlighting their work, thoughts on what it means to them to be in the creative industries, their inspirations, aspirations, iconic role models and sage words of advice.
Next up, Caroline Lever, Director of Culture at The Editions Hotel, a group of the luxury boutique hotels conceived by Ian Schrager.
What does it mean to you to be female and in the creative industries?
Over the past few years we have witnessed an amazing new wave of feminism in mainstream culture; female leaders from the creative industries standing together to call out inequality and demanding action. There’s clearly still a long way to go but change is happening and I’m so pleased that this is top of the agenda. On a personal level, I feel a responsibility toward younger women who I work with or who come to me for advice. I feel very lucky to be part of this community and am endlessly inspired by my colleagues and friends who are doing incredible work.
Do you have words of wisdom for other women looking to break into the industry?
Don’t wait for permission, don’t be afraid, just start doing whatever it is you want to do. Do your research, read up, go to events, find other people who are interested in the same thing as you. Read the news. Be engaged in the world beyond your own. Reach out to people you admire, ask to meet them or to talk to them, show them your work. Work very hard and be prepared to do things you don’t really want to do.And be nice to everyone.
Who is your all time female creative icon?
That’s an impossible question, there are so many, but to name one: Tilda Swinton is a unicorn. She has a timeless wisdom, beauty and generosity that shines within and out. She is filled with magic.
Check The Dots, our blog, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for inspirational insight throughout the week.
#InternationalWomensDay
#IWD2016
#JoinTheDots