"Will you have sex with me when I give you the money?," a senior male asked me as we shook hands to secure a potential new-business relationship.

Staring directly into my eyes and repeating those words, insisting he had the right to have sex with me if he gave me money. This occurred just minutes after telling me about his business and wife. I was stunned into silence, staring back at him as I continued to shake his hand. I was in utter disbelief, my body coursing with anger and an overwhelming sense of violation. Here was a man who objectified me in a work environment with total unwavering confidence.

One of my male colleagues stood about two feet away from me, both of us in the same place, time and situation of making new industry contacts, yet having completely different experiences. This stark contrast highlights the pervasive issue of sexism in our industry.

This happened on Tuesday night at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. I was there representing Brixton Finishing School, networking with industry professionals outside a bar on the Croisette. It was packed – full of talents of all levels, including Cannes Lions winners. The chaos of networking made it easy to feel anonymous and alone.

The remainder of the festival was spent networking, attending client meetings and industry parties, but under a fresh lens of hyper-awareness. Thoughts of my attire, getting taxis home alone, and my safety dominated; daily concerns for many women. I........

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