In partnership with Barclays, We Are PoWEr delivered an impactful Advocacy programme of activities designed to inspire action, deepen understanding, and empower advocates to move from passive to active advocacy and allyship in the workplace. This programme of activities featured a variety of formats, including roundtable discussions (PoWEr Circles), networking events, and sessions focused on learning and knowledge exchange.

Advocacy Virtual Briefing 

Delivered as a pre-dinner virtual session, this briefing engaged participants in a dynamic roundtable and power circle discussion format. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, creating a platform to align advocacy goals and drive actionable insights.

Advocacy List Dinner 

This dinner brought together members of the Advocacy List and key Barclays colleagues for an evening of networking, strategic discussions, and collaborative insights. The dinner was notable for its diverse range of attendees, including individuals from various industries and professional roles, offering a wide array of perspectives and experiences. This diversity gave depth to conversations, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within advocacy.

The evening began with opportunities for informal connections, creating a welcoming atmosphere for attendees to share their experiences and aspirations. The highlight of the dinner was a Listening Circle facilitated by Simone Roche MBE. This session encouraged open and meaningful conversations, providing a safe space for participants to share their stories, insights, and perspectives on advocacy and inclusivity. Stephanie Lloyd presented compelling data insights, sparking thoughtful dialogue on actionable strategies to drive equity and inclusion. Attendees explored key themes, exchanged ideas, and connected on shared commitments to advancing advocacy within their professional and personal spheres.

Advocacy Listening Circles 

The Listening Circles provided an engaging environment where participants delved into the nuances of advocacy through the lens of three male advocates. The session focused on actionable strategies to drive advocacy in professional and personal spheres, anchored by the following principles: Defining Advocacy

• Discussions explored the differences between advocacy, allyship, and the concept of “change-makers,” clarifying roles and expectations.
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Overcoming Barriers: Participants examined common resistance to advocacy by understanding limiting behaviours and challenging mindsets that hinder progress.

Driving Genuine Impact: Advocates highlighted the need for meaningful action that opens opportunities for others, focusing on collective progress rather than personal gain.

Bridging the Diversity Gap: The session addressed systemic barriers contributing to underrepresentation in middle management, emphasising the importance of equitable progression pathways.

Relatability and Trustworthiness: Advocates emphasised the importance of building genuine connections, ensuring their actions and intentions are perceived as authentic and reliable.

Programme Impact  

We Are PoWEr, in partnership with Barclays, delivered a transformative Advocacy programme of activities that equipped participants with the tools, strategies, and insights to champion effective advocacy in their organisations and communities. By integrating strategic discussions, leveraging data-driven insights, and fostering meaningful engagement, the programme has established a benchmark for advocacy in the workplace.

Creating a Ripple Effect  

This programme of activities has already started creating a ripple effect, driving positive change across professional networks and communities. Participants emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to inspire others and lead initiatives that prioritise equity, diversity, and inclusion in tangible ways. Together, We Are PoWEr and Barclays have set the stage for a future where advocacy is not just a value, but a practice embedded in organisational culture.