Proud ally of #WomenEd and a passionate teacher!

Recently, I attended an outstanding #WomenEd Malaysia conference and, out of an auditorium full of passionate and inspiring educators, I was one of only four men present. The conference itself was expectedly both eye-opening and humbling, as I listened to stories of the barriers women face in education, barriers that, as a man, I've rarely had to consider. But the real issue for me was the one-sidedness of the audience. 

How are men supposed to help improve the landscape when we aren't even in the room yet?

I've always believed in gender equality, but for a long time, I wasn't sure how to help. I wanted to be supportive, but I often found myself second-guessing what to say or do. I worried about saying the wrong thing, overstepping or making a mistake that could come across the wrong way. So, like many men, I sometimes stayed quiet, thinking that silence was safer than getting it wrong.

But over time, I realised that hesitation wasn't helping anyone. In fact, avoiding the conversation only reinforced the very inequalities I wanted to challenge. The more I listened to female colleagues, read about gender bias and reflected on my own actions, the more I understood that being an ally isn't about having all the perfect answers - it's about showing up, speaking up and making sure women's voices are heard. Real allyship means being willing to learn, get uncomfortable and act, even if you don't always get it right.

That's why I've made a conscious effort to help men be more proactive in supporting women in education. Becoming a proud supporter of #WomenEd Malaysia was a good first step but I still don't have all the answers. I do know that small, everyday actions can make a big difference. Men, if you've ever felt unsure about how to be a better ally, you're not alone. Here you will find some practical steps that have helped me andthat we can all take - to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in education.

There is a problem.

In 2021/22, 75.5% of school teachers in the UK were women, yet a 2019 analysis by the Department for Education found that even after accounting for experience and location, female teachers were 14% less likely to be promoted to senior leadership and 20% less likely to become headteachers than their male colleagues.

In Primary schools, women constitute 85% of teachers but only 74% of headteachers.

In Secondary schools, the disparity is more pronounced: women make up 63% of the teaching staff yet, even now, hold only 42% of headteacher positions.

This imbalance extends to international British schools too: a 2021 study by the Council of International Schools found that only 25% of heads of international schools were women.

So, how can men step up and support women in educational leadership in meaningful ways?

1. Listen and Learn: Understand Women's Experiences

HeForShe's research highlights that men who take the time to educate themselves about gender inequality are far more effective in driving meaningful change. The first step to allyship is listening and learning.

How to Take Action:

• Engage in conversations with female colleagues and ask about their experiences. Listen without interrupting or offering immediate solutions.
• Read about gender bias in education and leadership.
• Reflect on your own biases and how they may influence workplace interactions.

2. Challenge Bias and Inequality: Speak Up and Intervene

Workplace in Action highlights that men who challenge gender bias, whether in hiring, promotions or daily interactions, contribute to a more equitable work culture. Male allies must be willing to call out gender-based biases and work towards systemic change.

How to Take Action:

• If a woman is being overlooked or spoken over, intervene and redirect the conversation.
• Call out biased comments, even in casual settings, to set the tone for a respectful environment.
• Actively advocate for policies that promote gender equity, such as fair parental leave and flexible work options, and challenge those which don't.

3. Amplify Women's Voices: Ensure They Are Heard

Research from Humans of Globe shows that women's ideas are often overlooked in meetings, only to be acknowledged when repeated by a male colleague. This is known as the "hepeating" phenomenon, which limits the contributions of women in professional environments. Male allies can actively counter this by ensuring that women's contributions are recognised.

How to Take Action:

• If a woman's idea is ignored in a discussion, reinforce it by repeating and crediting her by name.
• Encourage women to take the lead in discussions and decision-making.
• Avoid interrupting and ensure all voices are included in conversations.

4. Mentor and Sponsor Women: Open Doors for Growth

Research from the HBA Network shows that organisations with strong male allyship programmes see greater diversity in leadership, yet women still face systemic barriers to career progression. Men in leadership positions can play a vital role in mentoring and sponsoring women to advance in their careers.

How to Take Action:

• Offer mentorship to female educators, sharing career advice and growth opportunities.
• Actively sponsor women by recommending them for leadership roles or promotions.
• Challenge biased hiring and promotion practices to ensure women are given fair opportunities.

5. Model Allyship for Others: Be a Role Model for Change

A study from Leading Now found that when male allies set an example, it shifts workplace culture and accelerates progress towards gender parity. When men openly support gender equity, it encourages others to do the same and helps normalise inclusive behaviour.

How to Take Action:

• Show up for gender equity initiatives and advocate for inclusivity.
• Support women-led initiatives, research and educational programmes.
• Encourage other men to engage in discussions about gender bias and equality.

Final Thoughts

Being a male ally in education is not about perfection—it is about consistent effort. The amazing work that WomenEd Malaysia and WISE are doing is paving the way for greater equity in education, and I hope to see more male allies supporting their efforts next time. Education should be a place where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive. 

Let's commit to making that a reality.