D,E& I in Africa: Achieving Gender Diversity in Leadership Teams

The just-concluded session on "D,E& I in Africa: Achieving Gender Diversity in Leadership Teams" was incredibly insightful and impactful. The session tackled crucial concerns surrounding inclusion in organizations, offering practical solutions that, if implemented, can lead to significant positive changes.

One key takeaway emphasized during the session was the paramount importance of culture over strategy. It was emphasized that for an organization to truly achieve and maintain gender balance, D,E&I principles must be deeply embedded in its culture. When faced with cultural barriers, the speakers recommended strategies such as respectful assertiveness, conducting thorough background research on colleagues to understand their perspectives better, and leveraging social, economic, and cultural connections to mitigate biases.

Moreover, the session provided additional empowering tips for women aspiring to leadership roles:

1. Believe in Yourself: Never settle for your current position; strive for continuous improvement as your growth not only benefits you but also sets a positive example for future generations of women leaders.

2. Utilize Social Media: Be proactive in seeking mentorship and guidance from individuals who represent your envisioned future. Leveraging social media platforms can accelerate your professional growth journey.

3. Represent Women: View yourself as a representative of a broader constituency of women at every level of your career. Take every opportunity to educate your peers and colleagues about the significance of gender balance and inclusion.

4. Self-Development: Take ownership of your professional development by acquiring valuable skills relevant to your organization. Continuously seek opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge base.

By implementing these strategies and fostering a culture of inclusivity and equity, organizations can create environments where diversity thrives, leading to enhanced trust, influence, and overall success.

We deeply appreciate our speakers: Cecilia Akintomide and Lawrence Eta for their time and wealth of experience offered during this session.

Be sure to advocate for yourself!

#AWCN # DEIsession #inclusion.