World Menopause Day at Diageo

At Diageo, we have practical ‘Thriving Through Menopause’ guidelines in over 45 geographies, giving our employees the help, information and support that they need. We also offer educational materials for line managers, as well as an array of online resources, videos and guidance. And this year, we are offering two Menopause Awareness sessions for colleagues to hear about different experiences across markets. We know how important it is to raise awareness about menopause and perimenopause, through normalising conversations on the topic and learning from each other about the impact it can have.

Throughout the business, we also spotlight our Menopause Champions – those colleagues that tackle this topic boldly, and, by doing so, continue to shape our inclusive culture. Jeanette is one of our champions. “Diageo’s Thriving Through Menopause guidelines have given me the confidence to tell people how I am feeling and how this is impacting me at work, and most importantly to ask for support when I need it.” Being a Menopause Champion has helped Jeanette “come to terms with this natural next stage in my life” through awareness and collaboration. Now being better equipped, Jeanette has started the passions she’s always wanted to do: volunteering and learning to surf!

There is always more to do, and Diageo is committed to integrating menopause awareness into more leadership conversations and encouraging more colleagues to share their perspectives. And our Spirited Women Network employee resource groups continue to encourage these important conversations around the business.

This World Menopause Day, we hear from two of our employees.

“My journey into menopause began with fear and confusion. I had undergone surgery, and although I was advised that it would induce menopause, I had no idea as to what to expect. When the symptoms began, I didn’t realise they were linked to menopause because I had never been educated about it, and my GP couldn’t provide all the answers and initially misdiagnosed the symptoms. For too long, it has been a subject surrounded by silence. Everything felt so sudden, from the surgery to the healing and the overwhelming rush of emotions. That experience shaped a promise I made to myself: if sharing my story could help even one person feel more prepared and less alone, then it would be worth it.

“Menopause is part of a woman’s natural life cycle, but its impact extends far beyond individuals. It affects families, colleagues and communities. Education is essential because many of us, men and women alike, do not know enough to understand or support those going through it. A small amount of awareness can make a big difference to how people cope and how workplaces respond.

“Breaking the taboo is central to progress. Menopause is not a secret and not a choice. It happens every day across the world, and it should be understood and supported, not hidden.

“I consider myself fortunate because, during that difficult time, the support I received from my family, and work colleagues was phenomenal. At that time, I worked in an all-male team, and luckily one of my colleagues took the time to explore the resources available at Diageo to better understand what I was experiencing. Their empathy and willingness to learn reminded me how powerful allyship can be in creating a truly inclusive workplace.

“For anyone experiencing perimenopause or menopause my message is simple. Be gentle with yourself. Speak to professionals to find the right support. Talk to colleagues and friends. By sharing experiences, we create community and reassurance.

“When we open up the conversation on menopause, we build a more inclusive and supportive culture. Together we can ensure every colleague feels seen, understood and valued.”

“My mother went into menopause at just 34 years old, a stage medically regarded as early menopause. There was never really an explanation for why it happened. Sometimes early menopause can be linked to medical treatments, illness, or lifestyle factors, but in her case, it came without warning. I was still young, yet I could sense that something had changed, even though we didn’t have the words or openness to talk about it.

“Growing up, I watched her struggle quietly with calcium and iron deficiencies that often led to painful cramps and arthritis-like aches. She endured it with remarkable strength, but we rarely spoke about what she was going through. In our culture, as Black Africans, menopause is not something we discuss openly. That silence meant she carried much of her pain alone, and I believe it became one of her greatest burdens.

“Despite it all, my mother never allowed menopause to define her. She remained dedicated and resilient, continuing to thrive in her work life. Yet, I suspect the lack of awareness and communication around her experience affected her marriage - a reminder of how silence can deepen emotional distance.

“As we celebrate World Menopause Day, I honour her strength and the strength of every woman navigating this journey, often unseen. I am proud that at Diageo, we are working to change that - to bring menopause into the open, create safe spaces for conversation, and ensure that no one has to go through it alone. Through education, allyship, and support, we’re building a culture where women at every stage of life can thrive - with understanding, dignity, and care.”