IWD 2021 – Women in Leadership

"In a world where gender inequality is present, I succeeded in my 20-year ascent to a leadership position by embracing a multidimensional approach. I would like to share my experiences and insight of my journey in the hope it benefit others", said Ms. Diallo.

"We face multiple challenges in the 21st century, these include climate change, health, environmental issues, depletion and degradation of planetary resources, aging populations, talent development, social inequalities (and wealth distribution), remote working, and mastering new technologies to name but a few. These, seemingly overwhelming challenges we currently face and those in the future require a new style of leadership - we need to step aside from ‘traditional’ models. Female leaders have the necessary skills to meet these challenges.

As a first step on my journey, I looked deep within myself to identify my inner champion. This necessary reflection influenced my goals – specifically, what I wanted to be, how to use my position for betterment, finding my authentic communication style, ambition, and desire to meet and surpass the challenges I set for myself. This has required both perseverance and focus on the bigger picture rather than the plethora of minute details.

Female leaders face two main challenges they need to overcome:

• To identify the barriers blocking our path to leadership

• To acknowledge that male and female leaders bring different leadership attributes, and to play to these strengths - I utilised my courage to take initiatives, interpersonal skills, empathy, and compassion.

Above all, I am a good leader because I believe in myself".