WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Senela Jayasuriya
BEYOND THE GLASS CEILING
A guide to global forces and bold actions that are accelerating women’s empowerment
Factors driving momentum behind women’s empowerment globally
A growing awareness that diversity drives innovation and sustainability; not just fairness but smart economics too.
Evolution of the conversation surrounding gender equality in the past decade
It has shifted from advocacy to accountability – from why it matters to how we deliver.
Regions or countries setting the best examples in women empowerment
The Nordics for systemic equity, the UAE for bold female leadership visibility, Rwanda for grassroots inclusion and Japan with its first female prime minister, marking a powerful cultural shift in Asia.
Role of technology in shaping new opportunities for women in leadership
Tech has removed borders – women can lead, learn and launch ventures from anywhere.
Digital literacy in empowering women in developing economies
It is the great equaliser – digital access means economic participation and voice.
Influence of Gen Z in shaping the next wave of female leadership
They lead with authenticity, question hierarchy and demand inclusivity, which will redefine leadership norms.
Sectors with the most progress in gender inclusivity
Healthcare, education, retail and public administration show the strongest momentum in gender inclusivity.
Financial independence in the overall empowerment journey of women
It is foundational – empowerment without financial autonomy is incomplete.
Narrowing or widening the gender gap in the workplace with remote work
It has increased flexibility but also blurred boundaries, often adding invisible pressure on women.
Impact of rising entrepreneurship among women on traditional corporate structures
It is challenging rigid hierarchies; women entrepreneurs are proving that agility, empathy and profit can coexist.
Main challenge women face in advancing their careers
Societal barriers that impose disproportionate unpaid care work compounded by the lack of scalable support systems.
Addressing unconscious bias effectively at all organisational levels
Awareness must be linked to accountability – training alone is insufficient; leaders must be measured on inclusion.
Impact of access to mentorship in breaking professional barriers for women
It’s game changing! Mentorship shortens the learning curve, and expands confidence and connections.
Ways in which societies can encourage more women to enter STEM fields
Start early – challenge household and cultural biases that steer girls away from STEM, normalise science for girls and showcase relatable role models to inspire them.
Reasons for women to drop out of the workforce mid career
Lack of support systems and flexibility during life transitions – not a lack of ambition.
How male allies can contribute meaningfully to women’s empowerment
By listening, amplifying women’s voices and challenging bias in rooms where women are not present.
Systemic changes needed to close the gender pay gap
Transparent pay structures, equitable promotion pathways and bias free performance evaluations.
Ensuring women in rural areas are not left behind
By taking digital access, education and mentorship to them – and not waiting for them to come to it.
Overlooked factor holding back gender parity globally
Cultural conditioning: the invisible scripts that shape confidence and opportunity.
Overcoming imposter syndrome in leadership roles
By reframing it – you are not an imposter; you’re expanding into new territory that feels unfamiliar.
Qualities that define successful female leaders today
Clarity, courage, collaboration and compassion: the balance of strength with humanity.
Importance of emotional intelligence in women’s leadership journeys
It is a leadership superpower – the bridge between strategy and people.
Role of resilience in sustaining empowerment movements
Resilience keeps purpose alive when progress feels slow; it’s the quiet force behind every breakthrough.
How women leaders can inspire collaboration instead of competition
By leading with abundance, not fear – success multiplies when shared.
Advice for young women working towards senior leadership roles
Own your ambition, face your fears, master your craft, seek mentors, take calculated risks, challenge the status quo and build a strong circle – success comes one intentional decision at a time.
