Task Forces

Task Force on Woman and Leadership

Terms of Reference of APAGE Task Force on Woman and Leadership Committee

Period of appointment

As per the current Council term which governs until APDW 2025 Singapore

Overview

As the committee for Woman and Career Development, our mission is to empower and advance women professionals within the field of gastroenterology, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for their professional growth and success. We are committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion across all levels of our organization and the broader gastroenterology community.

Missions

Our mission encompasses several key objectives:

Supporting Women in Career Development: We provide comprehensive support to women gastroenterologists at every stage of their careers, addressing barriers and biases that hinder their career progression. Through mentorship programs, career counseling, and professional development workshops, we empower women to overcome barriers, seize opportunities, and achieve their full potential in the field of gastroenterology.
Creating a Platform for Networking: We recognize the power of networking in fostering connections, collaborations, and opportunities for growth. We would like to create the platform that serves as a hub for individuals to connect, share experiences, and forge meaningful relationships with peers and industry leaders, creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures personal and professional development. Through conferences, seminars, and online forums, we facilitate connections and exchanges of ideas, promoting camaraderie and solidarity within our profession.
Striving for Gender Equality: We are dedicated to promoting gender equality within gastroenterology and beyond. By advocating for policies and practices that eliminate gender-based barriers and biases, we seek to create a level playing field where all individuals have equal opportunities to excel, regardless of gender identity.
Developing and Enhancing Leadership Skills: We cultivate leadership skills and opportunities for women gastroenterologists, empowering them to assume leadership roles within their institutions, professional societies, and the broader healthcare community. Through leadership development programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, we empower individuals to unleash their full potential and become effective leaders who drive positive change in the field of gastroenterology.
Fostering Mentorship Programs Across Asia-Pacific and Worldwide: Mentorship is a cornerstone of professional growth and success. We facilitate mentorship programs that transcend geographical boundaries, connecting mentees with experienced mentors from diverse backgrounds and regions across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. By fostering mentorship relationships, we cultivate a culture of learning, guidance, and support that enriches the professional journey of individuals across the globe.

Action Plans (2024-2025)

To ensure that women gastroenterologists are well represented at the APDW meeting in 2024 and 2025. We aim at 20-30% of the total number of APDW faculty. The roles include moderators, speakers, live demonstrators, workshop instructors.
To hold a scientific session related to gender equality, career development, or leadership roles at APDW 2024 and 2025
To create a platform for a mentorship program. This program is applicable for both men and women who seek guidance in career development and leadership roles.
To collaborate with the other taskforces on exploring the evolution of women representatives at APDW meetings over the years with the goals to eliminate gender-based barriers and biases, and create opportunities for women to be well represented.