01/03/2023

We Recognize Different Ideas and Leadership Styles, Regardless of Gender

This year, International Women's Day is celebrated under the motto #EmbraceEquity, a concept that is deeply embedded in our IQOS culture. We believe in creating solutions that take into account the diverse needs and experiences of individuals and diverse communities, and tailor services and principles to these differences.

Last year we got to know some of the ladies in the IQOS team, we found out what their motivation and inspiration for success is, and this year we are talking to colleagues of the opposite sex, who shared their views on the topic of gender equality.

interview with Ninoslav Milosevski, Ilija Mukaetov, Ognen Kostovski and Elion Jashari

Ninoslav Milosevski – part of the commercial operations team

What stereotype about women would you change and why?

The "division of men's and women's work" stereotype. I personally think that there is no need for division. I have a personal experience on this topic, which I want to share and point out through an example. One of my previous work experiences is as a car sales consultant. We collaborated daily with my colleague who also worked in that sector. Very often when any of the customers who were interested in buying a new vehicle and wanted to get more information in terms of technical details, performance and features, they would end the conversation with her and go directly to another male colleague. Although the person in question may have been the best acquainted and really knew all the information in that area better than all of us at the dealership, she still faced these unpleasant situations on a daily basis. From this personal experience, I find these stereotypes outdated and unnecessary. All of us, regardless of gender, should constantly try to break down these prejudices and get rid of the stereotypes that strong and modern women in society constantly refute and prove exactly the opposite.

Ilija Mukaetov – part of the management team

If you could have dinner with any three inspiring women, who would they be and why?

The women who, in my opinion, represent an example of success and inspiration as individuals, are the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, the tennis player Serena Williams and the actress Julia Roberts. We are talking about strong women who left their mark on society. Jacinda is considered one of the most iconic leaders in the modern world, a leader who truly reflects the values of the nation she represents, both in New Zealand and far beyond. Serena Williams will be remembered as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, but her greatest achievement is that she used her sporting success to change the lives of countless women from different social groups. It's hard not to admire someone who is a fighter for women's rights. Julia Roberts helped pave the way for young women who want to achieve something meaningful in their lives. Her talent, success, hard work, the way she deals with fame has long been an inspiration for all women in the world. That's why I would like to hear more from them about their path to success, their motivation, as well as their message to all women in the world with advice on how to achieve their dreams.

Ognen Kostovski – part of the team responsible for distribution

In your opinion, what results does the established equality of women and men in the IQOS team bring?

Gender equality in itself means nothing if it is not realized in its essence. One of the main priorities of the team behind IQOS is achieving gender balance and the focus is on utilizing the full capacities of women in the workplace. The benefits of gender equality in the IQOS team are seen in the expanded perspectives and the improvement of the way of working. In this way, the IQOS team ensures a more efficient execution and implementation of the jointly set goals. We at IQOS are rooting for changes that lead to a constant improvement of the social situation, where more and more women can express and show their potential and as freely as possible contribute to a better society for all. Our team has always functioned as a whole made up of different individuals and in my opinion that is the formula for a successful team that always exceeds expectations. Following the trend of the entire organization, the IQOS team stands for equality and equity, with the aim of ensuring maximum inclusiveness. For this, support, freedom of expression and a healthy working environment are necessary. Here, we nurture a culture of gender equality and raise awareness at all levels about women's safety, balance in professional and private life.

Elion Jashari – part of the sales promotion team

What is the most important advice or message you want to share for Women's Day?

Women have overcome countless obstacles and barriers throughout history and continue to do so today. They broke stereotypes, broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations. So, for this Women's Day, as for all others, I would like to ask that we acknowledge and recognize the courage, strength, resilience and resilience of women everywhere, and renew our commitment to creating a world where all women can thrive and succeed.
Equality is the goal, and equity is the means to get there. In the IQOS team, we constantly break down barriers, embrace gender equality and believe in women leaders. We don't stop at words, we think, accept, value and fight for gender equality.

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