Being promoted while on maternity leave shouldn’t be exceptional, but Professor Hannah-Louise Holmes knows that sadly there are many women across the world who aren’t as fortunate. 

“I’m very lucky that I’ve been well supported in my career, by both men and women.  I was promoted on maternity leave, just after having my daughter, and within six months of coming back to work, I was promoted again.  However, I’m fully aware that globally women are discriminated against when they become mothers and it’s an issue I want to stand up for and I’m more than willing to be vocal about it.” 

COVID CHANGED HOW WE SEE EACH OTHER, LITERALLY 

Understanding that there is a long-held belief by women that they should separate work and home life to get on, which she too believed, Hannah witnessed first-hand, during Covid, the benefits of sharing the full picture of her life and responsibilities to create a more inclusive workspace. 

“It was impossible to separate work and home life during the pandemic,” says Hannah. “I had a four-year-old photo bomber for starters. We were all under such a lot of pressure. The lines became blurred, and I got more comfortable in saying, you know what, this is very tough. But I realised others felt it too and it was something people needed to hear me say.  They weren’t alone and we weren’t inadequate.  We simply had a lot on our plate and were still doing a good job. 

“I think before the Covid lockdowns there was a part of myself that I didn’t bring to work, but during that time my perspective changed. I guess before I thought I was exposing a vulnerability and that sharing that I had other responsibilities as a wife and mother might hold me back.  In hindsight I realise it’s a super-power.  My life isn’t one dimensional, I multi-task.”   

“It’s unhealthy to keep things hidden, we have to show up for work as our authentic self. My role as a mum is important to me and it’s important for my colleagues to know this. I have a full life with other things going on outside of work and as a role model to women in the department and those I mentor; I want them to understand that we don’t have to squash motherhood into a small space. It’s a big part of our lives; it doesn’t disconnect us from the great work we do or our ambitions.” 

CHANGING MINDS AND CHANGING ROOMS 

When Hannah came back to work after maternity leave, she found that other mums were expressing milk in the toilets and disguising milk containers in the fridge.  They didn’t want to make others feel uncomfortable.  She also found that when she brought her baby in to work there was nowhere private to change her.  Feeling uncomfortable about the lack of inclusivity, Hannah set about trying to change the landscape. “It wasn’t a huge space that was needed, but it was an important one. There had to be space for me and other mothers.”   

After spearheading the need for change, a changing station is now available in the building. Not just that, changing room facilities were also included in the design plans for newer buildings on campus, including our the Institute of Sport.  “These small spaces will make such a big difference to a lot of people.” 

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATIONS  

“Without doubt, International Women’s Day is one of my favourite days of the year.  I like to thank all the people that support me.  I like to see the outpouring of support here at Manchester Met, hear uplifting stories, and ensure we take the time to recognise that we haven’t got where we are on our own. This year is no exception.