This International Women’s Day, it’s imperative to reflect on the remarkable strides made by women in boardrooms worldwide, and to recognise the pivotal role they play in shaping the future of leadership.
In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving business landscape, the presence of women in boardrooms is not merely a matter of representation; it’s a testament to the transformative fiscal and cultural impact and power of diversity and inclusion. Women bring a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and insights to the table, enriching decision-making processes and driving innovation. And they can help to connect with the £bn market – women drive 70-80% of all consumer purchasing through buying power and influence.
The journey towards gender parity in boardrooms has been marked by both progress and challenges. While significant strides have been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality. According to recent studies, women occupy only a fraction of board seats globally, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and action to break down barriers and create pathways for female leadership.
Women hold 42% of board seats at big UK firms
The proportion of board positions held by women in the FTSE 350 rose to a record high of 42% this year, according to the government-backed annual FTSE Women Leaders Review. This is up from 24.5% in 2017 when the report was launched. Whilst there is a way to go, we encourage you to be ready for your time to bring change to the table.
At BeOnBoard, we firmly believe that diverse leadership teams are not only essential for business success but also for fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging. When women are empowered to lead and contribute at all levels of an organisation, the entire business ecosystem thrives.
In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing struggle, every act of empowerment carries profound significance. Maya Angelou’s timeless quote encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.” This powerful statement underscores the transformative power of individual agency and its broader implications for women collectively.
Empowerment through individual agency
When a woman asserts herself, whether it’s in the workplace, community, or personal life, she is not only advocating for her own rights but also challenging societal norms and expectations. By speaking up, taking risks, and pursuing her ambitions, she demonstrates the inherent strength and resilience that lies within every woman.
Building solidarity and unity
Acts of empowerment create a ripple effect, inspiring other women to assert their own voices and claim their rightful place in society. This sense of solidarity among women is essential for collective progress, as individual struggles are recognised as part of a larger movement for gender equality.
Breaking down barriers
Empowered women play a crucial role in breaking down systemic barriers and challenging discrimination and inequality. From leading grassroots movements to advocating for policy changes, women have historically been at the forefront of social and political change, driving forward the fight for equality and justice.
Celebrating diversity and intersectionality
It’s essential to acknowledge that women’s experiences of empowerment are diverse and intersectional, shaped by factors such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. As we celebrate women’s achievements, we must also recognise and celebrate the diversity within the women’s movement, ensuring that the voices of all women are heard and valued.
Inspiring future generations
Empowered women serve as powerful role models for future generations, instilling confidence and resilience in young girls and aspiring leaders. By standing up for themselves and refusing to be silenced, women are paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
But our celebration doesn’t end with acknowledgment; it extends to action. As advocates for gender equality and inclusion, we are committed to championing initiatives that promote the advancement of women in boardrooms and beyond. Whether through mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, or policy advocacy, we’re dedicated to creating a level playing field where every individual has an equal opportunity to succeed.
As we honour the achievements of women on International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a future where diversity is celebrated, and every voice is heard. Together, we can create a world where women thrive, businesses flourish, and inclusion reigns supreme.
