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By Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Area Commercial Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International
In the ever-evolving landscape of global business, gender empowerment stands as both a moral imperative and a strategic advantage. As a woman leader navigating the corporate world, I have encountered obstacles, often rooted in biases about my age and gender. Yet, I have never allowed these challenges to define my journey. Instead, I have embraced them, proving to myself and others that I belong in this space.
One of the most pivotal elements of my success has been the mentorship I received. At Marriott International, I have been fortunate to have leaders who provide positive direction and unwavering support. Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my career, and I am a firm believer that we all need each other to succeed in our shared human experience.
Reflecting on my career, many of my achievements have been in collaboration with others or in service to someone else. Mentors not only guide and push you to excel but also create a sense of belonging, which is crucial. For example, my parents, both educators, have inspired me to mentor young women to help them grow and rise in their careers.
Mentorship is vital because it broadens your perspective. A mentor serves as a sounding board, offering advice and insights that you might not see yourself. This guidance not only strengthens your individual career growth but also enhances the organisation. Great teams are built on the foundation of good people working together, and mentorship is a key component of this process.
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Gender empowerment must be embedded at every level of an organisation. It is not enough to have a few women in leadership positions; we need to ensure that diverse voices are included in all discussions. This diversity leads to more innovative solutions and, ultimately, greater success and profitability for the company.
To advance gender empowerment in business and the workplace, we must:
- Promote mentorship programmes: establish formal mentorship programmes that pair experienced leaders with emerging talent. This helps to build a pipeline of future leaders who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the business world.
- Encourage thoughtful risk-taking: create an environment where women feel empowered to take on new challenges and opportunities. This involves providing the necessary support and resources to help them succeed.
- Foster inclusive cultures: develop a culture that values and respects diverse perspectives. This includes implementing policies that promote work-life balance, equal pay, and career development opportunities for all employees.
- Highlight success stories: share stories of successful women within the organisation to inspire and motivate others. This helps to create a positive narrative around gender empowerment and demonstrates the tangible benefits of diversity.
- Measure progress: regularly assess the effectiveness of gender empowerment initiatives and make adjustments as needed. This ensures that the organisation remains committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.
Gender empowerment is not just about achieving equality; it is about unlocking the full potential of every individual within the organisation. By fostering mentorship, encouraging women to take opportunities, and ensuring diverse voices are heard, we can create a more successful, innovative, and profitable business.
Read about more empowerment success stories
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