ACMI x EQI: Trusted Long-Term Partnership for Gender Equality

We partnered with ACMI to embed a meaningful, tailored and sustainable approach to gender equality across their organisation. Through strategic advisory, collaborative consultations, policy audits and bespoke training, we supported ACMI to build internal capability, embed inclusive practices and position themselves as a cultural leader genuinely committed to equity and inclusion. 

The Challenge

ACMI is uniquely positioned to influence narratives and challenge gender stereotypes across creative industries and education sectors. Committed to the Gender Equality Act and recognising their influential role, ACMI sought to move beyond compliance to meaningful, embedded change. The challenge was translating broad commitments into actionable steps that resonate within a creative and fast-evolving environment, while building internal capability and sustaining momentum. 

They needed a trusted partner who could provide responsive, personalised support across a range of needs, from facilitating broad staff and board consultations to shape their Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) to auditing policies with an intersectional lens and delivering specialist training to equip staff in supporting workplace inclusion and safety. 

The Solution

Our long-term partnership with ACMI is built on trust, adaptability and holistic support. Our ongoing work together started in 2022 where we assisted ACMI in creating their first GEAP. This included facilitating multiple rounds of consultation, engaging staff and leadership in shaping a practical and ambitious 2022-25 GEAP aligned with ACMI’s unique culture and sector. This collaborative process ensured the plan reflected their team and positioned ACMI for impactful action. 

To build internal capability, we delivered tailored trainings on gender impact assessments, empowering ACMI’s teams to embed gender analysis across their programs and decisions. We conducted detailed audits of recruitment, onboarding, and induction policies, providing recommendations that incorporated intersectional factors to strengthen equity. Responding to insights from the GEAP, we integrated select modules from our online education suite to raise awareness of unconscious bias across the organisation. 

Understanding the sensitive nature of workplace inclusion, we designed and delivered bespoke training for Harassment Discrimination Contact Officers (HDCOs). This equipped ACMI’s HDCOs with the confidence and skills to support colleagues navigating discrimination, harassment or bullying while strengthening a culture of safety and respect. 

Throughout, we remain an on-call advisor, providing strategic guidance, practical tools and compassionate support as ACMI navigates emerging challenges and opportunities on their gender equality journey. 

The Impact

Our partnership has helped ACMI embed gender equality deeply into its culture and operations. Staff at all levels have engaged with the tailored trainings and resources, building capability and confidence to advance inclusion. Feedback has been consistently positive, as reflected by one participant who commented, “Fully enjoyed the session. Fun yet very professional.” This highlights our approach of combining expert knowledge with engaging and accessible delivery. 

As ACMI continues to evolve its gender equality efforts, our ongoing support ensures they’re equipped to meet new challenges with confidence and compassion, fostering a workplace culture where everyone feels safe, respected and valued.