In the evolving era of leadership, women are making remarkable strides, breaking barriers, and challenging stereotypes. However, the journey to leadership for women is still laden with numerous challenges that stem from deep-rooted societal norms, organizational structures, and individual biases.
Despite considerable advancements, the glass ceiling remains a formidable obstacle for women aspiring to top leadership positions. This invisible barrier obstructs their path, limiting upward mobility and preventing them from shattering the highest echelons of corporate hierarchies.
Women leaders often find themselves confronting gender bias and stereotypes. The perception that effective leadership aligns predominantly with masculine traits creates an uphill battle for women aiming to be recognized for their competence rather than conforming to societal expectations.
Apeksha Bhadauria, Director, Human Resources, Air & Sea, ISC: A severe gender imbalance persists in leadership roles, contributing to unequal opportunities for women. The lack of representation intensifies the challenges, with women finding themselves navigating a professional terrain where their voices are often drowned out. During my tenure, I have been in various assignments where I was the only female Management team member. Though it was not a conscious decision or initiative but the impact of implicit biases on decision-making processes cannot be understated. Unconscious prejudices may lead to the undervaluation of women’s contributions, perpetuating a cycle of inequality that must be actively dismantled.
As per the traditional norms, the perpetual struggle to maintain a balance between professional commitments and personal responsibilities posed a unique challenge for women leaders. However, the Societal expectations and traditional gender roles concepts are changing now wherein both genders are equally responsible for parenting and household duties, making it a little more non-judgemental towards women.
Let’s hear from DSV Women Leaders:
- Sophia Pereira
- Vidhya Sundarraajan
- Ruchi Sodhi
- Rajni Bhaskaran
Women possess a unique power that should never be diminished or overlooked. From the workplace to the household, women have consistently demonstrated their capacity to excel, achieve greatness, and inspire change. Their leadership has contributed to the prosperity and advancement of those they lead. “Do Not Underestimate the Power of Women” serve as a reminder of the immense impact women can have in shaping societies and driving progress forward. Recognizing and harnessing this power is essential for achieving true gender equality and unlocking the full potential of our communities and organizations. – Sophia Pereira, Director – Customer Service & Customer Solution- DSV India
Women bring valuable contributions to the workplace; they can inject dynamism and creativity into teams. When women are part of a team, their diverse perspectives and approaches often encourage innovative thinking and problem-solving. They bring fresh ideas, unique insights, and different experiences to the table, which can inspire the team to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. This creativity and dynamism not only enhance the team’s performance but also enable them to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business environment. Overall, embracing gender diversity and having more women leaders in the workplace can lead to a more innovative and successful organization. – Vidhya Sundarraajan, Regional Head, South 2
Women make up approximately half of the global population, and extensive research highlights the importance of increased representation in corporate and leadership roles. However, one aspect often overlooked is the necessity for inclusive households, where all members contribute regardless of gender. As a working mother, I aim for my child to witness both parents as equal partners in both the corporate world and domestic sphere, working together towards shared goals. If there’s a concept of “mommy guilt,” it should be balanced with the acknowledgment of “daddy guilt.” Creating a nurturing environment at home shouldn’t fall solely on one gender, just as earning income or managing household chores shouldn’t be gender-specific tasks. By instilling gender-neutral values in the next generation, discussions about gender diversity may become obsolete in the future. As a woman leader, my mission is to enhance women’s presence in the corporate sphere and cultivate a more inclusive, sustainable economy. It’s imperative that the next generation, family, career, and society prioritize recognition and appreciation based solely on individuals’ skills and contributions, rather than their gender. For me, being a “woman leader” means striving to bring this vision closer to reality. – Ruchi Sodhi, Head Marketing, DSV Indian Subcontinent
The success of every woman should be an inspiration to others. When a woman leader succeeds, it not only reflects her accomplishments but also uplifts & empowers other women around her. By celebrating each other’s progress & accomplishments, women create a culture of support and encouragement, This collective empowerment fosters a sense of solidarity and unity among women, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and motivation. Ultimately, by raising each other up, women collectively break barriers, overcome challenges, and achieve greater success together. – Rajni Bhaskaran, Executive Asst to MD and Head of Administration Manager DSV, India
