By Lee Ann Searight, RI membership resources specialist

This International Women’s Day, 8 March, the Membership Development team at RI produced a webinar on the future of women in leadership. As I researched the issue, I read an article about women’s place in the global economy and their challenges in achieving gender equity. The UN estimates it will take up to 286 years to close gaps in legal protection and remove discriminatory laws and 140 years for women to be represented equally in positions of power and leadership in the workplace. But despite these challenges, the panelists remained hopeful.

Manjoo Phadke, recipient of the 2023-24 Sylvia Whitlock Award, spoke about empowering women to realize their potential rather than just handing them power. She believes that winning this award gives her one more tool to inspire confidence in the women around her and encourage them to lead.

Angela Walker, who has held leadership positions at both the club and district levels in Rotary, talked about the challenges women leaders face and the importance of perseverance. She said women need the strength not to let roadblocks discourage them from becoming who they want to be as leaders. Aja Castillo, the panel’s moderator, emphasized the importance of allowing women to hold positions of authority and supporting them in navigating those tricky spaces.

Throughout the webinar, the panelists offered practical suggestions for supporting women in leadership – from mentoring and sponsoring to being a good ally. They stressed the need to understand the difference between equity and equality and to step back so others can step forward.

Reflecting on what I learned from the webinar, I’m reminded that we all have a role in advancing gender equity – regardless of gender. Whether learning more about the issues facing women or using our voices to speak up for their advancement, we can all make a difference.

Watch a recording of Rotary’s International Women’s Day webinar.