Code of Conduct

Purpose of the Code of Conduct

Our Code of Conduct isn’t here because we expect problems — it’s here to give every attendee confidence that YOW! events are spaces where respect, professionalism, and inclusion are the norm.

By clearly stating the behaviour we expect, and our commitment to inclusivity and diversity, we help ensure that YOW! Conferences remain a welcoming and safe environment for everyone.

The YOW! Code of Conduct

YOW! Conferences are dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity or religion.

We do not tolerate harassment of any participant in any form. Sexual language or imagery is not appropriate in any conference space, including talks, workshops, sponsor booths, or online channels. Participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the event without a refund at the discretion of the organisers.

Any written or verbal communication — including social media posts — that could be considered offensive, exclusionary, or harassing toward attendees, speakers, exhibitors, or staff is not allowed at YOW! events.

If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code, please inform a YOW! staff member immediately. Our leadership team will address the situation as promptly and discreetly as possible.

Harassment includes (but is not limited to):

Offensive comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, or religion
Sexual images in public spaces
Deliberate intimidation or threats
Stalking or following
Harassing photography or recording
Sustained disruption of talks, workshops, or social events
Inappropriate physical contact
Unwelcome sexual attention

Participants asked to stop any unwelcome or harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

Exhibitors, sponsors and partners

All exhibitors, sponsors, vendors and booth staff are also subject to this policy. They must not use sexualised images, clothing, activities, or environments in their materials, displays, or interactions.

Consequences

If a participant engages in harassing or harmful behaviour, organisers may take any action deemed appropriate, including a warning or expulsion without refund.

If you are being harassed, notice someone else being harassed, or have any safety concerns, please contact a member of the YOW! team. Staff can be identified by their YOW! shirts or badges.

Our team is ready to assist with contacting venue security, local authorities, providing an escort, or otherwise helping you feel safe for the remainder of the conference.

We value your attendance and your safety.

We expect all participants to follow this Code at all conference venues, partner events, workshops, and official social gatherings.

How to Report a Code of Conduct Violation

All reports are handled confidentially. We will never disclose the reporter’s name without consent.

If you witness or experience a violation, please notify a member of the YOW! organising team.

You do not need to confront the individual(s) involved or put yourself in an uncomfortable situation.

Each session room has:

A track host (who introduces the speakers)
At least one crew member (wearing a YOW! crew shirt and lanyard)

All staff and crew members are briefed on the Code of Conduct and can connect you with a senior organiser to discuss next steps and, if needed, complete an incident report.

Who:

Names or descriptions of the people involved (attendee, speaker, crew member, sponsor staff, etc.)

Where:

Session room, foyer, sponsor booth, hallway, workshop space, social event, etc.

When:

Approximate time of the incident.

What happened:

Verbal behaviour (jokes, slurs, comments, dismissive behaviour)
Visual content (slides, shirts, materials with inappropriate imagery)
Physical behaviour (any non-consensual or inappropriate contact)
Any relevant context

If everyone involved is physically safe, we will only involve security or law enforcement at the request of the affected person.

Report a Violation

If you need help during the conference, please approach any YOW! staff member or visit the registration/help desk.

Or please reach out to the team as written above or if case you feel more comfortable writing to a general email address that the whole organizing team can access, please write an email to: info@yowconference.com