The Office of Gender Affairs Coordinator Miss Patricia Hackett is stressing the importance of healthy professional relationships in the workplace to ensure high levels of productivity.

Miss Hackett while addressing educators at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) at their staff meeting, highlighted the importance of proper communication in the work place as this prevents misunderstanding and misinformation which can foster animosity between co-workers.

Miss Hackett said, “As we try to foster a workplace culture that champions equality, equity and inclusivity, cooperation, collaboration and effective communication stands as backbone of progress.”

The Gender Affairs Coordinator said prioritising communication, should be upward, downward, horizontal and vertical in the workplace. She added, “We cultivate an environment where diverse perspectives flourish, paving the way for collaborative solutions and ensuring that every individual, irrespective of race, ethnicity, contributes to and benefits from the collective success of the organisation."

Ms. Hackett underscored the importance of good workplace relationships between staff. She stated that healthy professional relationships are the cornerstone of a thriving workplace, promoting collaboration, trust, and open communication.

"In the workplace, fostering healthy professional relationships is crucial for gender equality,” she said adding, “Building trust and respect creates an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of gender, religion and cultural orientation, can contribute and thrive."

The presentation at HLSCC staff meeting is in line with the Office of Gender Affairs mandate to improve and promote healthy professional relationships and effective communication in the workplace to improve corporate culture in the Virgin Islands.