It’s not about how “anything he can do, she can do better,” nor is it a battle of the sexes. It’s asking the question and taking the time to see what needs to change in order to enable more and more women to take the leap and rise into these positions.
The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Women Leadership Network is taking on this challenge with help of a research student at Okanagan College. We are looking to develop that helping hand and encouraging peer mentoring.
One of our initiatives, the Inspire Series, will be a catalyst to foster this nurturing environment. Throughout the year we will be hosting a circuit of events bringing women in leadership together in small, intimate groups. We’ll hear from women who have inspiring lessons to share, the events that shaped their lives, what they learned about themselves and being a leader.
Casual exchanges vary as we get to know each other beyond our job titles. Before and during dinner, new acquaintances strike conversations that are as diverse and varied as the professional women attending. After our speaker, there is an opportunity to ask questions and talk about women in leadership, the challenges we face, and the remarkable journeys taking place all around us.
Who are the women in leadership that you look up to? We’ve all had mentors, or those who have provided the leg up. What was it they did that furthered you along, what is it about their leadership style that allowed for the culture of growth? Every journey has variables, but its collaboration and peer mentoring that will bring us together.
So, I pose you the question: what do you feel needs to change?
-KCC