Women In Ctrl’s latest update shows marked progress in gender representation, but challenges remain.
The UK-based initiative, Women In Ctrl, has been a significant force advocating for gender equity in the music industry. Established to address disparities in representation, the campaign is particularly known for its influential ‘Seat at the Table’ reports, which monitor the diversity of leadership within industry organizations. Founder Nadia Khan recently shared a reflective post outlining the group’s achievements over its first five years as well as its future direction.
Between 2020 and 2024, Women In Ctrl has reported a notable increase in the representation of women on boards, rising from 34% to an impressive 52%. The representation of Global Majority women has also seen a significant jump, moving from a mere 3% to 16%. These improvements highlight the organization’s relentless focus on breaking down barriers that have historically hindered women’s access to leadership roles.
Khan emphasized in her post that the progress seen was not due to a lack of qualified women, but rather a lack of visibility and clear pathways into these roles. Many women were unaware they were eligible for board positions, while others faced obstacles posed by convoluted election processes. Such insights underscore the need for transparency in recruitment and election procedures in the industry.
Despite these achievements, Khan cautioned that the progress made is still fragile. She pointed out that advancements often rely on a few individuals who champion for change or on temporary alignments of interests. “Without enforcement mechanisms, timelines, or consequences, accountability remains optional,” she stated, highlighting the need for systemic change.
Looking ahead, Women In Ctrl plans to tackle the critical question, “What is inclusion without authority?” This inquiry will form the basis of the upcoming 2026 ‘Seat at the Table’ report, set to launch in March. As the organization continues its mission, it aims to foster not just representation but also genuine authority for women in the industry.
