IWD2021 #ChooseToChallenge: Katy Mountain

Disclaimer: Please note that all commentary and opinions provided in this interview are those of the individual and not the organisation/company they are employed by. 

What does “choose to challenge” mean to you? 

Choose to challenge firstly means recognising and understanding where gender bias and inequality exists, which could be anywhere from your workplace to your home. It’s then our decision to consciously address these issues and proactively educate and promote an inclusive world. I’ve personally encountered numerous occasions of gender bias and inequality due to age, race, ethnicity, and it’s our responsibility to ensure we handle each situation appropriately and with care.

What are you really, really good at?

I thought about this question for a while. It’s sometimes so easy for people to say what they’re really, really good at. Yet I’m stuck and I struggle to sing my own praises, which then makes me ponder why… is this related to my upbringing, society, culture, personality and of course gender? After some thought I’d like to believe that I’m really, really good at hockey. I’ve played hockey since high school, have over 50 caps for Hong Kong and have received a number of accolades along the way. I’m also really, really good at establishing and managing sponsorship. I’ve been lucky enough to work with the All Blacks, Premier League, ATP, and The O2.

What impact could Kamala Harris’ appointment to Vice President have on the next generation of female leaders? 

Kamala Harris’ appointment gives hope for a world of equal opportunity. It signals that women can achieve their dreams no matter how high, they can break the glass ceiling, and there are no limits. I hope this means the next generation sees more female leaders, leaders with the confidence and courage to stand up for an inclusive world, break more barriers, and a belief that anything is possible because Kamala Harris‘ appointment is proof that it is.

What is your next goal or adventure? 

I have a couple of personal goals for this year. The first is to hike all the peaks in Hong Kong. There are 136. The second is to run 5km under 20mins. And I’m sure there’ll be more!

Why is it important that we “choose to challenge” and call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping?

It’s important because every time we “choose to challenge” it is a step towards an inclusive world. Otherwise nothing will change.

Click below to read the full edition of IWD2021 #ChooseToChallenge: Female Leaders Across The Globe.https://indd.adobe.com/embed/bb2678fd-fafb-4e5f-b57b-bbe97612e7cf?startpage=1&allowFullscreen=true