We caught up with key members of the Stonehage Fleming team in Jersey to hear about how best to challenge bias, the things they have faced as working women over the last year and what advice they might give to younger women at the start of their career in Jersey in 2021.

Tatiana de Sousa
Tatiana joined Stonehage Fleming in 1997 and is a Senior Associate in the Family Office Division. She is responsible for a number of international high-net-worth clients, working with their families and advisers. Tatiana has also had exposure to a great number of the different facets of the Group’s business, including being closely involved in information technology and business application software, business process development, data management, client accounting, compliance, governance, corporate secretarial and risk. She is a full member of the Society Trust and Estate Practitioners (TEP).

For me, choose to challenge means defying stereotypes. It will help to create an inclusive world where organisations are challenged to promote, support and retain women within their ranks and ultimately to create a world where there is no gender inequality. To achieve all this, women must back each other up when needed, work at being approachable to each other and be available to offer help.

I have struggled with the loss of freedoms that covid has brought. I have overcome the restrictions by staying in regular contact with friends and family. I have also been disciplined about taking time out for myself, ensuring I take a proper lunch break, being careful not to work too late just because your computer is there staring you in the face. These things sounds simple but are definitely easier said than done.

Many clients have struggled with the uncertainty the pandemic has brought. Like everyone, they have found the lack of clarity difficult – not knowing when the situation would come to an end. Many have relied on us to be there as a sounding board to bring their family challenges and concerns to. Whatever the issue, we can always find someone to help.

My advice for women entering the workplace in Jersey is don’t be afraid to speak. Young women need to be supported to find their voice in business and IWD is all about supporting them to do so. Young women who are passionate about what they do should be confident in themselves and their own abilities.

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