IWD 2024 CXO Panel DiscussionBreaking the Glass Ceiling
“Invest in her” kept the audience riveted on International Women’s Day with a sparkling panel discussion moderated by Shivangi Walke.
Coming together to share their insights were Niti Khosla, Nadene Martin, Henriette Wendt and Jasprit Sahnsi, four C-suite executives and leaders in their own right. Their stories provided a glimpse into the challenges they have faced and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths to leadership. Through their narratives, we explore themes of motherhood and the C-suite, the power of advocacy, evolving leadership styles, and overcoming self-imposed barriers.
Motherhood and the C-Suite: The Balancing Act
The integration of motherhood and executive roles presents a complex challenge for many women heading towards the C-suite. Nadene Martin shared a poignant moment when her daughter's innocent inquiry about her absence at home sparked a deeper reflection on balancing career ambitions with family commitments. This turning point led Nadene to reassess her priorities, ultimately highlighting the importance of flexibility and support from organizations to enable women to excel in both realms without having to compromise one for the other.
Advocacy: The Invisible Hand of Support
Advocacy within the workplace plays a critical role in advancing women's careers, especially in leadership roles. Niti Khosla’s experiences underscore the significance of having allies who ensure that women's contributions are recognized and celebrated, paving the way for their progression. Her journey illustrates that advocacy goes beyond mentorship, acting as a catalyst for opportunity and visibility in spaces where women might otherwise be overlooked.
Evolving Leadership Styles: Adapting to flourish
Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, especially for women in C-suite positions who often navigate varied and dynamic corporate cultures. Henriette Wendt recounted her move to Sweden as a transformative period that prompted her to adopt a more empathetic and people-oriented leadership style. This shift was not just about adapting to a new cultural context but also about evolving her approach to leadership to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment, underscoring the adaptability and resilience inherent in successful leaders.
Overcoming self-imposed barriers: Breaking through limitations
The journey to the top often involves confronting and overcoming not just external obstacles but also those we impose on ourselves. Jasprit Sahnsi spoke candidly about her struggle with self-imposed limitations, stemming from doubts about her ability to attain certain opportunities as a woman of colour. Her story of growth and achievement, fueled by encouragement to dream big and the backing of sponsors, displays the power of self-belief and the critical support of mentors in transcending these internal barriers.
The insights and anecdotes shared by these remarkable women, makes it evident that the path to the C-suite, while unique for everyone, shares common challenges and themes. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from organizations, allies, and the women themselves to foster an environment where aspiring female leaders can thrive. Through understanding and concerted effort, the glass ceiling that women face can be dismantled, making the journey to leadership a more accessible and empowering experience for all women.
