Empowering Women in PR: Navigating an Internship in a Male-Dominated Industry

As Women’s Month comes to a close, it’s important to highlight the experiences of women entering traditionally male-dominated fields. My six-month internship at SWM Communications, a full-service PR, media management, and marketing agency serving the Engineering, Technology, and Built Environment sector, has provided valuable insights into the challenges and successes faced by female interns in these industries.

Entering these sectors presented challenges, but being part of a predominantly female company like SWM Communications made the transition smoother. From day one, I was surrounded by accomplished and supportive women who set high standards in PR and communications. This environment created a strong sense of belonging and laid a solid foundation for my professional development. Mentorship is a cornerstone of the SWM experience, offering invaluable insights, constructive feedback, and encouragement. This support helps navigate the industry’s complexities and builds a foundation for future success, empowering the next generation of women to excel and lead. As an intern, I was involved in a variety of tasks, from drafting press releases and managing social media to engaging with clients and organising events, each offering learning opportunities that contributed to my skills development and professional growth.

The collaborative atmosphere and mentorship from experienced professionals were crucial in building my confidence and expertise. Despite the supportive environment, working in a traditionally male-dominated sector came with challenges. I encountered instances of being underestimated and faced implicit biases that highlighted the industry’s gender dynamics. These experiences helped me develop resilience and determination. With support from my female colleagues and successfully managing projects, I felt empowered to assert myself and ensure my contributions were both valued and recognised. The internship significantly boosted my confidence, and successfully managing projects reinforced the value of my hard work.

Women’s Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of women across all industries, especially those traditionally dominated by men. It’s an opportunity to honour progress and inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in these fields. SWM Communications has always been at the forefront of challenging gender stereotypes in the Engineering, Technology, and Built Environment sectors. By sharing our stories and successes, we aim to inspire and encourage other women to break barriers and pursue their professional aspirations.

Interning at SWM Communications has equipped me with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to navigate a career in any industry, especially a male-dominated one. As I move forward, I carry the lessons learned and trust in my knowledge and experience. The future holds immense possibilities, and I am eager to continue my journey with the foundation built during my time at SWM Communications. As we celebrate women, let’s recognise the strides made, address the remaining challenges, and continue to champion a more inclusive and diverse industry. The experiences of female interns today pave the way for a more equitable future in PR, media management, and beyond. I am grateful for the invaluable lessons learned, the support received, and the opportunities for growth. Let’s continue to support and empower women, ensuring their contributions are recognised and celebrated in all industries. The journey continues, and together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable working environment.

Written by Gabriella Leatt

Communications Intern 2024