We’ve all heard it – the unique roadblocks women leaders face. Gender bias, a dearth of mentorship opportunities, and more. Yet, the narrative often paints this as a sob story. I’m ready to flip the script.
To me, there’s perhaps nothing better than to celebrate the tenacity of women who persistently shatter barriers. They are not merely overcoming these challenges, they are rewriting the rules, pushing boundaries, and paving new paths for the generations to come.
Consider the lack of mentorship opportunities. It’s a fact – there are fewer women in leadership roles to act as mentors. However, many women leaders today are building bridges instead of walls, creating networks and communities where mentorship is abundant and accessible.
In the face of gender bias, self-confident female leaders are not just resisting stereotypes but actively dismantling them. Each time they step into a boardroom, lead a team, or make a key decision, they are breaking down preconceived notions about what leadership looks like.
Yes, women leaders face unique challenges. And there’s plenty of progress left to be made. In my humble opinion that becomes easier to do when we focus on celebrating the victories, the change-makers, and the trailblazers.
“[Progress] becomes easier to do when we focus on celebrating the victories, the change-makers, and the trailblazers.”
The #FollowFriday series I created in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic is one example of a way to break down these invisible walls. Social media in general has provided a platform for communities to be built around a shared interest, experience, or goal. By featuring the amazing women in my network and beyond, we’ve created a community built on the understanding that we’re in this together, and a rising tide lifts all boats.
By extension, the #FollowFriday International Women’s Day Conference is creating a more inclusive, open-minded, and supportive network for women across the career ladder. Through this community, women are able to encourage inclusion, build communities, provide networking opportunities, and celebrate each other’s achievements. Women supporting women icreates a powerful network that can break down barriers and lead to greater success for all.
So, to the women leaders out there – keep breaking those glass ceilings. And to those who witness their journeys, let’s not just watch but actively support and champion their cause.
Because when one woman rises, we all rise.
