Marriott International (ANZP) has announced a two-year partnership with UN Women Australia in a bid to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in hospitality and beyond, across Australia and the Pacific.
As the official hotel partner of UN Women Australia, Marriott International aims to fundraise $120,000 by 2026 towards Markets for Change, a UN Women initiative in Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu that aims to reduce violence and theft risks for women stallholders, empower women and strengthen their economic position in families and communities and alleviate poverty.
“We are delighted to partner with such an amazing organisation promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, and are working on many initiatives through the Women in Leadership Council to raise $120,000 over the next two years,” said Marriott International, Chair of the Women in Leadership council, Kim Mahaffy.
“This partnership is an opportunity for us to support and uplift our female associates in Fiji and a chance for our female leaders within the organisation to take action to promote, advance and inspire women’s leadership, inclusion and development.”
Marriott employees will have the opportunity to provide direct support to UN Women initiatives by participating in fundraising activities, training and events.
“As part of the people first culture at Marriott International we take great pride in not only being focused on the wellbeing of our Marriott associates, but on spearheading initiatives that re-affirm our commitment to driving positive change for the people and communities around the world in destinations where we operate,” said Marriott International, Area Vice President Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Jason Nuell.
“I congratulate the associates in our Women in Leadership Council on their commitment to making a positive and sustainable impact, and for reflecting our company goal to be a global, transformational leader in Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.”
UN Women Australia CEO, Simone Clarke, said the partnership marks a significant step towards achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls across the region.
“This partnership not only amplifies our efforts to support women and girls in the Pacific but also highlights the crucial role that businesses can play in driving gender equality,” Clarke said.
“By joining forces, we are working towards a future where women are safe, empowered, and equal participants in their communities.”