Networking In Heels: Expert Shares Insights On How Women Can Fight Sexual Harassment In Job Market

• Networking in Heels is not a membership organisation but a drive that organises events for women in different stages of their careers to network
• Sexual harassment and solicitations in exchange for job opportunities are rampant and affect a large number of women in the Kenyan job market
• Women find themselves undignified and harassed to show up for jobs with more than just their resumes hence the need for women to network

Elijah Ntongai, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, leverages more than three years of expertise in financial, business, and technology research, providing profound insights into both Kenyan and global economic trends.

Sexual harassment and other gender-based harassments have been discussed for a while among the main challenges faced by women in the job market, particularly when it comes to networking and landing new job opportunities.

Networking in Heels, founded by Violette Wambua, has emerged as a pioneering platform serving as a vibrant space where women in the job market can network and foster connections that fuel personal and professional advancement.

"Over time, we have discovered that Networking In Heels is actually a great pitching point for one’s aspirations whether for business or job opportunities. It is a friendly place to prepare for meeting sharks in the marketplace," Wambua told TUKO.co.ke

What is Networking in Heels?

Networking in Heels is not a membership organisation but rather a drive that organises events for women in different stages of their careers to socialise with other women and form networks that aid in the furtherance of their careers.

TUKO.co.ke spoke to Violette Wambua and she described Networking in Heels as an adventure that was born out of necessity having had to face various hurdles when she was trying to establish herself as an entrepreneur.

"Back in 2010, I was trying to find my footing as an entrepreneur and I needed both mentors and clients. As I continued to speak to other green horns like myself, I realized there was a need, specifically a need to be around women focused on their goals as well as others who were ahead of us," Wambua told TUKO.co.ke.

"This would be a setting where we’d have healthy interactions in a relaxed manner, away from the then popular high-powered mixed-gender networking events that were happening at the time. After the very first event, I knew it would not be a one-time forum," Wambua added.

Sexual exploitation of women in the job market

Wambua told TUKO.co.ke that sexual harassment and solicitations for sexual favours in exchange for job opportunities are rampant and affect a large number of women in the Kenyan job market, especially when they need help to land a job or a business deal.

"The cases reported are a drop in the ocean compared to the real numbers. I have witnessed this challenge, but mostly on the business side of things, where tenders are available, as long as the entrepreneur is willing to play ball," said Wambua.

What can women do about solicitations in the job market?

Wambua remarked that it would be amazing if we lived in an ideal world where everyone does what is right and morals are venerated, but the opposite is true and people who abuse women like this are often protected by their organisations or the requirements to prove such forms of abuse are set in a manner that makes it impossible for women to report these cases.

"Women find themselves undignified and harassed to show up for jobs with more than just their resumes!" Wambua said.

"There is no one silver bullet to handle these situations but first things first, document everything that happens. Keep a record of times, places, people, incidences, and witnesses if any. This will help if one decides to take action in the future," she added.

Women entering the job market

Wambua notes that the whole purpose of starting Networking on Heels was because she saw a need to create a safe space where vulnerable women can meet mentors and make connections with other women in the job market without the fear of being harassed.

This is particularly necessary for young women who are starting their careers because they often fall prey to sexual predators in the workplace.

"Many women walk away and others report into a whisper network, which is important in its on ways, while others give in. We cannot judge, we can only resound the call for healthier work environments," wambua told TUKO.co.ke

Upcoming events

The Networking in Heels events are not merely networking spaces but serve as educational forums covering crucial topics like personal branding, finance, trade, health, and leadership.

As Networking In Heels continues its mission to empower women, the upcoming event themed "Finishing Strong and Starting Right" aims to inspire, motivate, and equip attendees to overcome challenges and embrace the coming year with renewed vigour.

Women in the taxi industry

In other stories related to sexual harassment of women in the workplace, TUKO.co.ke previously reported on the challenges faced by female taxi drivers in Kenya.

Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Lilian said she had not been sexually abused, however, there have been instances of sexual harassment, unwanted advances and physical touch.

"Sometimes, male customers ask for female drivers with ulterior motives. Just the other day, I went to pick up a customer and he asked me to go help him carry some luggage from his house on the third floor. When I told him the company policy does not allow that, he had the audacity to tell me he would pay me KSh 10k," Lilian said.