Women-only co-working spaces have been a topic of debate recently, with some closing their doors while others continue to thrive. The concept gained popularity during the MeToo movement, but opinions on its impact vary.
The Wing, a prominent women’s co-working space founded by Audrey Gelman, faced a downfall during the pandemic due to staff revolts, allegations of mistreatment, and legal challenges for sexual discrimination. Despite this, other women-only co-working spaces like The Hearth in London are still operating and attracting members like Bonnie Lister Parsons, who values the supportive environment for female entrepreneurs.
Critics argue that women-only spaces may not be empowering in the long term, with some workplace experts suggesting that they could hinder progress towards gender equality. Anne Kirby, founder of The Candy Factory co-working space, believes that excluding men from the workspace is counterproductive to achieving respect and equality in the business world.
However, supporters of women-only co-working spaces see them as a safe haven for women to navigate the challenges of a male-dominated industry. The Hearth, for example, offers a nurturing environment with wellness rooms and female-focused events, providing a sense of community and understanding among its members.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how women-only co-working spaces will evolve and whether they will play a lasting role in promoting gender equality in the workplace.