Womxn's Network Committee 2023-24: Aditi Pandey, Aditi Sebastian, Claudia Kitchen and Delfina Imbrosciano
What inspired you to join SPP’s Womxn’s Network?
Claudia - I have always been passionate about social justice and it’s actually part of the reason why I wanted to study public policy. It is the unfortunate reality of our world that not everyone automatically feels safe and respected in academic, professional, and social spaces. I want to find ways to make that change.
Aditi S - As a student of public policy, in one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, we learn a lot about the importance of inclusivity and diversity. What drew me to the Women’s Network was that it provided a platform for students who needed support in navigating a broken system, and being able to leverage this platform for good was a wonderful opportunity.
I think there’s a lot more work that can be done in terms of improving diversity and inclusion at LSE, but the Women’s Network is a great place to start the conversation and I’m grateful to be a part of it.
Aditi P - I have always deeply felt for and have been committed to uplifting marginalized communities. I've worked with various non-profits in my home country India, focusing on girls’ education and menstrual health awareness. When I came to LSE, joining the Womxn's Network was a natural choice to keep trying to be the voice of marginalized communities, in policymaking or otherwise
How can we #inspireinclusion in policymaking?
Claudia - What I’ve learned from all the inspiring policymakers I’m surrounded with at the SPP is that inclusion is not just its own realm of policymaking — it does not stop at EDI. It should be embedded into policymaking in every single sphere. Financial, international, health, urban policy — it’s not exactly necessary that inclusion is part of those domains. But it’s important to remember how every single decision we make in them will affect marginalized communities.
Aditi S - I believe we can #inspireinclusion in policymaking with evidence-based data. Facts and numbers scream injustice while there is plenty of evidence to disprove outdated notions of what is considered “successful” in society.
Educating non-female members of society is also imperative in their empowerment as this is not a lone struggle and collaboration is the only effective means to an equal end.
Aditi P - To #inspireinclusion, it is imperative to cultivate a mindset that values acceptance and openness to diverse perspectives. Embracing differences and varying viewpoints, as well as fostering an environment where ideas are welcomed, are essential components. Accepting individuals as they are, without prejudice or discrimination, is fundamental. The widespread adoption of this inclusive mindset facilitates not only more inclusive policymaking but also enriches all aspects of societal engagement.
Who inspires you?
Claudia - These is such a cheesy answer but my friends, especially and including the ones I’ve met at the SPP. I’ve never been around such talented and hardworking people in my life, and we all are such a great support system for each other.
Aditi P - The women in my life serve as constant sources of inspiration, motivating me to continually strive for improvement and growth. However, if I were to name one individual, it would be Safeena Husain.
How can people get involved or hear more about the Womxn’s Network?
We just opened applications for our 2024/5 board. We need individuals who are passionate about social justice — regardless of if they’ve been a part of WxN in the past — to fill our board positions for next year. Find out more here.