On this International Women’s Day, we remember women’s achievements, struggles, and resilience in overcoming barriers to success and highlight their significant contribution to society. The campaign for the year is “Inspire Inclusion”, and with that, we emphasise the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society.
The focus on driving equality for women in leadership roles is crucial for women to find self-confidence in their abilities to drive this passion to the highest level in the workplace. If we look at self-confidence and self-assurance, these aspects are essential for the working woman who has many plates to spin simultaneously with work, family, looking after parents, looking after children and running the household. Even with this in mind, women are rising to the top in their professions, and this needs to be equal in all industries, allowing for equal opportunities for both males and females.
Nowadays, we need to highlight the value of mentorship for women in ensuring we have the proper guidance, support and affirmation to allow for self-reflection and for women to reach their goals no matter the hurdles or obstacles they may face. Where there may be barriers to success, problem-solving together to break those barriers is a skill women must have today. The level of high EQ amongst women and their understanding of empathetic leadership is crucial to their success, and only now do we see the discussion of “vulnerable” leadership being highlighted as a strength. When women feel inspired and feel a sense of high value and inclusion, a sense of empowerment aligns with this, leading to self-confidence and a longing to showcase further strengths and progress in our roles.
This empowerment and self-assurance for young women has to start in school and is an essential task for school teachers to address that stereotypes which may be instilled from home are banished in school and that education allows for full inclusion, equity and success for all, no matter of background, colour, race or gender.
Views expressed by Ms Jasmit Kaur Kang, Founding Principal, Glendale International School
