So You Think You’re An Ally...

by Youssef Skalli

The word “Allyship” gets applied to a variety of causes advocating for stronger equality and equity. But the word itself deserves to be defined.

For me, being an ally is not a label, a title, or an identity. It is definitely not an award. It means standing next to and behind the supported individual or group of people. Allyship is not a one-time action. Instead, it is a life-long process that consists of asking, learning, un-learning, listening, and speaking up.

Whatever the cause and whoever the individuals are you stand for, they and only they, have the right and the full understanding of what an ally means to them and represents. You may want to position yourself as an ally, but if it is not validated by the person, your actions will have less impact.

To be an effective ally, I believe it starts with a selfreflection on your beliefs, self-awareness of your own biases, and is then followed by engaging in a continuous process of inquiry, listening and learning before acting.

If I want to be your ally, I first need your help to understand how I can help. I also need to understand clearly what are my advantages, gifts, and privileges that can support both of us in your journey – a journey in which you are the pilot leading the way and I am using my span of influence to be your co-pilot.

It is important to understand that an ally is not a savior or a fixer. Sometimes just listening actively and carefully is an act of allyship. Empowering others to take action or simply to speak up and share their lived experiences is an act of allyship.

When it comes to women’s empowerment, having male allyship is essential for all. What’s more, men also need women as allies. When everyone joins forces for the greater good, we can drive the change needed for now and for generations to come.

Youssef Skalli is an enthusiastic professional empowerment coach and workshops facilitator with 20+ years of progressive experience in a multinational corporate environment.

After a successful career in corporate Finance and Human Resources, holding leadership roles in different countries and multicultural contexts across the three continents of Africa, Asia, and Europe, he moved to North America and settled in Ottawa –Ontario, Canada where he funded his professional empowerment coaching practice.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/myskalli/