Ex journalist looks to inspire women across Greater Manchester

A former Stockport Express journalist has launched a campaign that is inspiring women across Greater Manchester to believe they can become leaders in their chosen careers.

Above: Kirsty Day (right) with business partner Grace Dyke

The #imnotjohn campaign was started by Kirsty Day, director of Yellow Jigsaw, a community interest communications company, with her business partner Grace Dyke after reading research that showed a lack of women occupying the top jobs in FTSE100 companies – with more men called John who are chief executives than any women.

Half a million people have already been reached on social media from Stockport to San Diego through a dedicated Thunderclap and by sharing success stories of entrepreneurs who are championing the campaign through blog writing.

Kirsty, who was at the Stockport Express for eight years, said:

“This is our first year in business and as a not-for-profit we were keen to run a campaign straight away and #imnotjohn raises issues that are important to both of us.

“We want the campaign to provide women in Stockport and Greater Manchester as a whole, with role models who show that you don’t have to be a John, to succeed and be the boss.

“We have met some fantastic examples of female leaders and have been showcasing them on our website and through social media.

“They are championing the #imnotjohn campaign and challenging this research, which we read about in The Guardian. They are giving women who want to rise up the ranks the belief that they too can be the boss in their chosen career.

“We hope it inspires women and men to make sure our generation and the next generation of Janes aren’t outnumbered by the Johns.”

A launch event for the campaign was held at the Museum of Science and Industry, which kicked off a week of activity running from November 9 to 13.

If you would like to get involved with the #imnotjohn campaign go to www.yellowjigsaw.co.uk/imnotjohn.