Game Changers: Women Shattering Expectations

As we wrap Women’s History Month, it’s important to reflect on the role women are playing from sports to music, film and beyond, women are shattering expectations and leaving an indelible mark with their talent, creativity, kindness, determination and actions.

Take a look at this year’s NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. University of Iowa star Caitlin Clark broke college basketball’s long-standing scoring records in February and this month is leading her team as it chases a national championship. While Clark is far from the only star in what has been an incredible NCAA Women’s Tournament to date, she is unquestionably the biggest and is an inspiration for so many young girls who dream of making their mark in the sport.

Consider the impact of the Barbie movie, which was led by director Greta Gerwig and actress Margot Robbie. The film was a resounding success over the summer, received nine Academy Award nominations and, more important, has served as a symbol for so many to be authentic and challenge barriers. Barbie even landed a spot on Forbes’ most powerful women in the world list.

Tennis star Coco Gauff won her first Grand Slam title as a 19-year-old last September and is the first U.S. player to secure a spot for the upcoming summer Olympics. And we all know the cultural impact Taylor Swift continues to make as she captivates audiences while using her enormous platform to advocate for women and artists all around the world.

But it doesn’t take a star athlete, musician or actress to make a difference. At Walmart and Sam’s Club we see it happening every day. I’m so impressed by the work of our very own Kath McLay, who is Chief Executive Officer of our Walmart International segment. Last year, Kath earned the opportunity to become the second women to lead our international unit (the first was recently retired Judith McKenna). It came after a successful four years leading Sam’s Club. She stands as a role model for so many women at Walmart and is truly passionate about our associates.

Then there are leaders like Vanessa Bennett at Store 2493 in Grand Rapids, Mich., set an example by investing in her team, As a store manager she saw that associates Maryam and Ali Ibrahim brought a unique perspective to the workplace because they are deaf. Vanessa wanted to embrace that by learning a new way to communicate with them so she learned American Sign Language (ASL) and continues to encourage others to do the same.

As we celebrate all of these women, it's essential to remember the importance of mutual support, especially in the workplace. While the workplace looks different for some — a basketball court vs. a board room — there are a few ways to create such an environment:

• Mentorship: Encourage experienced employees to guide and support those just starting their journey sharing experiences and providing internal role models.
• Recognize, celebrate accomplishments: Regularly acknowledge the achievements and contributions of all team members. It can go a long way in creating a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Open communication: Encourage open and respectful dialogue to help create a platform where everyone feels heard and valued.

As Women's History Month comes to a close, let's strive to support and uplift one another, as we continue to share our voice, break barriers and create a more inclusive world.