Imagine a thriving ecosystem, where women not only break the glass ceiling but shatter it, creating a mosaic of empowered leaders who lean into and lift each other as they lead teams and organisations. This transformation of a woman that evolves from self-confidence to a strength that has the power to influence, is not a solitary journey but enabled often through a collective effort fueled by the power of communities.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of gender diversity in the workplace, particularly in leadership roles. According to a study conducted in 2021, women outperformed men in leadership effectiveness, receiving higher ratings and being perceived as more effective in 13 out of the 16 assessed competencies.
However, research shows that women lag behind men when it comes to attaining leadership positions, and women from marginalised backgrounds even more so, due to gender bias, lack of support systems as well as inclusivity and belongingness at the workplace. Through our research and in-depth interviews to better understand the needs and collect feedback from our network of mid-senior women professionals and leaders, we gathered that there is a critical need to infuse DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion and belongingness) and allyship in our workplace cultures as well as networks.
Further, even when women have a seat at the table, that does not always translate to having a voice. According to research by Brigham Young University, when alone, women face 70% negative interruptions from men. In groups of four women, only 20% interruptions are negative; men become less aggressive. The research is clear: communities empower women.
This is what we at EquiLead have set out to achieve. EquiLead is dedicated to realising a transformative vision by centring community building as a strategic approach, endeavouring to initiate and nurture communities for women leaders across different demographics, poised to join, grow, and take the lead in organisations committed to making a positive social impact. As engaged participants within this evolving community, women leaders as well as women in middle and senior roles who wish to evolve into leadership, can avail themselves of opportunities for skill enhancement along with safe spaces, mentorship, networking, and collaborative ventures, which can empower their journey toward leadership aspirations.
1. Networking Opportunities
Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement, and communities can create a supportive environment, allowing women to exchange ideas, insights, resources and build professional relationships. Through our community building approach, EquiLead will enable women to expand their professional networks, gain access to a broader range of opportunities, enhancing their chances of career progression within organisations. We aim to do this by nurturing communities across themes, demographics and work experiences, such as convenings for senior women leaders to brainstorm, advocate and collectivise or thematic peer learning and knowledge sharing circles for women professionals facing various challenges in their professional lives.
2. Mentorship and Role Models
Having a mentor provides guidance, support, and a source of inspiration. However, our research revealed a notable absence of structured mentorship programs for mid-senior women professionals. At EquiLead, we intend to offer a platform for mentorship and the opportunity for aspiring women leaders to connect with established professionals. This mentorship initiative will be designed to enable women to navigate the challenges of leadership roles more effectively, benefiting from the experiences and insights of those who have already paved the way. Further, we are also committed to champion women and their leadership journeys as well as strategies that have the power to inspire by showcasing successful women as role models, creating a tangible vision of what is possible for aspiring leaders.
3. Skill Development and Training
To excel in leadership roles, individuals need to continuously develop their skills. EquiLead aims to empower women and create opportunities for them to develop their skills through workshops, training sessions, and masterclasses tailored to the specific needs of women in leadership. These opportunities not only enhance leadership capabilities but also address challenges unique to women in the workplace, such as overcoming gender biases, building resilience and developing soft skills to navigate power structures in their professional lives.
4. Building Supportive and Empowering Ecosystem
Building confidence is crucial for women in leadership. EquiLead’s communities aim to serve as empowering platforms, fostering confidence through shared experiences and encouragement, celebrate achievements, address challenges, and create a supportive ecosystem, reinforcing the idea that women can thrive in leadership. Thereby boosting women’s confidence, enabling them to overcome obstacles and contribute meaningfully to organisations.
The collective success of women in leadership ultimately contributes to the overall success and sustainability of organisations in an ever-evolving and competitive social impact landscape. As we recognise the immense value of gender diversity and inclusivity, fostering communities that support women's leadership growth becomes not just a social responsibility but a strategic imperative.
If this work and vision excites you, write to us at soumya@equilead.org, so we can collectively venture on this journey, and bring about transformative change to enable more women professionals to shine as leaders.
