International Women’s Day panel celebrates women in Communications

This International Women’s Day, McMaster’s Communications and Media Arts Society (CMAS) hosted a special panel discussion to celebrate and inspire women in the field of communications. 

CMAS co-president Mona Haider opened the event by highlighting the unique membership of the society, which has been made up almost entirely of women for the last three years. This, she noted, is not by design but a reflection of the increasing presence of women in communications leadership roles.

The event brought students together with three industry professionals who started out at McMaster: Debora Jesus (MA, Communication and New Media ‘16), Kathleen Adams (BA, Communications Studies and French Literature ‘05) and fourth-year student Mackenzie Barwell (Communications and Political Science). Each panelist offered insights into their career paths and obstacles they’ve faced along the way.

Adams, whose career spans many corporate communications roles, spoke candidly about the challenges of balancing ambition and societal expectations. 

“Women are constantly walking a tightrope to have careers that match their ambitions, but the camaraderie between women is stronger than ever,” she said. “We cheer each other on instead of breaking each other down.”

Barwell, an emerging voice in sports broadcasting, emphasized the importance of confidence in spaces dominated by men, and shared experiences of facing gender biases in sports media. 

“There will be pivotal moments when you realize you need to lean on people who truly have your back,” she advised.

Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized the value of mentorship and allyship. Jesus, a marketing and communications manager at a large corporation, noted the lingering attitudes among older generations who believe “It was hard for me, so it should be hard for you.” 

She countered this mindset, stressing the importance of creating more inclusive workplaces. “We need to support each other, not make things harder,” she said. “Finding mentors and allies is key.”

The role that communicators play is even more vital in today’s polarized media, noted Barwell. 

“Controversy sells, but it’s up to communications professionals to soften things so that there’s less division among political groups.” 

As she spoke to the gathered students, Adams highlighted how communicators play an essential role in amplifying research and innovation — even in STEM fields. 

“You’re surrounded by scientists and researchers – but what’s their greatest honour? Getting media coverage,” she teased. “You are the storytellers bringing that research to the world.”