Building a Future of Impact and Inclusion

In my conversations with women from diverse backgrounds and industries, one common thread emerges: shared challenges across work, home, and society. These discussions underscore the pressing need to address gender inequality and foster inclusivity on a global scale.

Recently, I came across an inspiring video interview campaign by Joy Soap Nigeria, a PZ Cussons brand, aimed at cultivating confidence and authenticity among Nigerian women. By redefining beauty norms, they're taking a bold step towards challenging societal standards and promoting self-acceptance.

As I delved into the topics covered – from housing to body image and marriage – I couldn't ignore the persistent pressure for women to conform to outdated standards. It's disheartening to see these expectations, perpetuated even by women themselves, continue to limit our potential.

Harvard Business Review publication, Research: How Bias Against Women Persists in Female-Dominated Workplaces - Amy Diehl, PhD, Amber L. Stephenson, and Leanne Dzubinski PhD.

Inspiring Change: Taking Action

Google's commitment to closing equity gaps in Computer Science across Europe is commendable. Through their research partnership with Canvas8, they're shedding light on the barriers preventing girls from pursuing Computer Science education. These insights are crucial for driving meaningful change and encouraging more girls to enter STEM fields.

The Women Techmakers (WTM) community is also playing a vital role in this endeavor. Through outreach efforts, role model spotlighting, and creating supportive environments, WTM is empowering women in tech and breaking down barriers to entry.

Stereotypes and Bias: Challenging the Status Quo

According to #IAmRemarkable’s literature review, a stereotype is a widely held, oversimplified, and fixed belief about a specific group. The literature review highlights sociologist Marianne Cooper's argument on the social backlash faced by high-achieving women. Traits like assertiveness and competitiveness, often associated with success, are perceived as "unfeminine" and elicit negative reactions. It's time to challenge these stereotypes and create space for women to thrive without fear of judgment or backlash.

Elevating Voices: Insights from Women

In addition to these findings, I collected insightful quotes from women in my network on how we can inspire the next generation to impact the future. Their perspectives offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Join my upcoming LinkedIn audio event to discover how Aniekan Inyang is breaking barriers to inspire inclusion in her career as a Data Scientist.

Looking Ahead: Making Every Moment Count

As we celebrate Women's History Month, we're reminded of the pivotal role women play in shaping our world. It's a time for reflection, action, and solidarity. Every second, minute, and hour counts as we strive to create a future of impact and inclusion for all. Let's seize this moment to drive meaningful change and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Important Reports and Resources

• Save the date and attend my upcoming LinkedIn audio event titled, Breaking Barriers to Inspire Inclusion.

• Register for a free #IAmRemarkable workshop.

• Video interview campaign by Joy Soap Nigeria, a PZ Cussons Nigeria brand, aimed at cultivating confidence and authenticity among Nigerian women.

• Google's research on barriers to girls' participation in Computer Science education.

• Women in the Workplace: Key Findings 2023 by Lean In.

• 6 Ways That Women Can Champion Each Other At Work by Lean In.

• Coding Kickstarter courses for those interested in pursuing tech careers.

• Join WomenTech Network to celebrate the Top 50 Women in Tech Marketing Executives in 2024.

• Journal of Women’s Health by National Library of Medicine (NLM).

• Visualizing the data: Women’s representation in society by UN Women.

🌟 Mentions / Quotes🌟

Laura Gibson - ten Bloemendal | Chisom Owoseni | Ndiuwem Udonte | Anne Essien | Bose Lilian Osayimwen | Regina Asuquo | Joy Nwakanma | Aniekan Inyang

🌟 Top 50 Women in Tech Marketing Executives! 🌟

Adrianna Burrows | Alison Wagonfeld | Allison Dew | Amanda St L Jobbins | Andréa Mallard | Ann Minooka | Carolyn Henry | Carrie Palin | Cynthia Gumbert | Dara Treseder | Elaina Shekhter | Esther Flammer | Gail Moody-Byrd | Genefa Murphy, PhD | Jacqueline Woods | Jamie Moldafsky | Janet Lee | Jennifer Shambroom | Joy Wommack Garcia | Kady S. | Katarina Nordin | Kellyn Smith Kenny | Lara Hood Balazs | Laura Heisman | Lauren McCadney | Lauren Wagner Boyman | Layla Revis | Leslie Berland | Lisa Campbell | Lisa Materazzo | LuJean Smith | Marian Lee | Marianne Hamilton | Meg Murphy | Meagen Eisenberg | Melody Lee | Mika Yamamoto | Nancy Kelly | Nancy King | Paige O'Neill | Rachel Delphin | Raejeanne Skillern | Rekha Srivatsan | Samantha Goldman | Sandy Ono | Shannon Sullivan Duffy | Sherice Torres | Stefanie Nastou | Tifenn Dano Kwan | Zeynep Inanoglu Ozdemir PhD