The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary defines allyship as:
“the state of being an ally (= a person who helps and supports somebody) to a particular group of people that you yourself do not belong to, in order to help ensure their basic rights and ability to be happy and successful in society”
This book exposes the problems that arise from a patriarchal or narrow-minded work culture. It tells the story of professionals in multiple industries where they are confronted by male dominance or discrimination. We see how characters become allies for each other to support personal and professional development.
This book is available for pre-order and is expected to be published on 29 October 2024. Orders will be fulfilled once the book is available.
Allyship Actually follows Lucy – a spirited newcomer to the tech industry – and David – a seasoned professional – as their paths and those of other characters cross in unexpected ways, against a bustling London backdrop.
The characters’ careers develop amid toxic cultures. Based on real-life events, the narrative gives a vivid depiction of Lucy and David’s frustration with outdated work cultures, and their efforts to support colleagues suffering inequity or harassment.
As the characters launch initiatives to change attitudes, we understand the importance of allyship in our professional lives. Lucy and David show us how allyship, when championed effectively, can advance transformation and inclusion within the workplace.
Lucy Grimwade completed a Computing BSc and then followed a somewhat linear path in ITSM/as an IT professional.
In 2018, after going through personal and professional challenges, she embarked on a journey to become a qualified professional coach. Lucy has completed more than 200 hours of coaching, has a coaching diploma with the internationally recognised ICF, and holds additional qualifications in NLP and CBT.
Lucy classes herself as a modern-day feminist. She is passionate about empowering and doing the right thing by and for women. Lucy also hosted a podcast called “Talk Female Friday” to share stories and advice from real women in real situations.
She is a huge advocate for allyship. She is focused on making sure that all people, especially women and people of colour, are not only invited to the table but also have a seat, a voice and a contribution.
David Barrow has more than 30 years’ experience working in IT ‘service’ roles. He has made a career out of IT, starting out in small businesses and gradually becoming a trusted consultant to a number of large global organisations.
David acts as a mentor to people at various levels both in partnership with Reed within the ‘Women in Technology’ initiative and as a committee member for ITSM and ITAM for the British Computer Society. He is also part of a committee for the British Standards Institute looking at education in service management.
David is passionate about acting as an ally, having benefitted from some great allies – but he’s also seen how people can be let down based on their gender, religion or life choices, and he’d like to help level this field.