Author Archives: Athene Donald

Skills, What Skills?

Posted on May 30, 2025 by Athene Donald

The answer to many of today’s problems seems to lie in the magic word ‘skills’, but this word can be used to mean so many different things, depending on audience and context, that in itself it is far from sufficient … Continue reading →

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Choosing Your Image

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Athene Donald

We all know people who seem quintessentially comfortable in their own skins, who effortlessly fit in to whatever group they want to belong to and reign supreme in their world (at least socially). But, note my use of the word … Continue reading →

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What do ‘Skills’ Mean to You?

Posted on April 27, 2025 by Athene Donald

We frequently hear the word ‘skills’ tossed about, as in ‘there’s a skills shortage’ or ‘a skills mismatch’, but put a bunch of people in a room, and ask them to discuss skills, and – with no additional qualifying words … Continue reading →

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Gender Pay Gaps: Getting Worse

Posted on April 10, 2025 by Athene Donald

This is the season when all larger employers have had to report their gender pay gap. Is it good news? No, things appear to be going backwards. “Enduring gender pay disparities in Whitehall reflect low female representation in senior roles … Continue reading →

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Is Ballroom Dancing like Academia?

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Athene Donald

One of my secret loves is watching each series of Strictly Come Dancing. It is a feel-good vibe we all need in these dark geopolitical days, however much I don’t care how many sequins are sewed on by hand.  So, … Continue reading →

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