Breaking Barriers: A Feminist Exploration of Success Stories Among Women Over 50 Across Diverse Fields
Montse Domínguez i Munllonch
Co?founder&director at Coachability Foundation ? Entrepreneurship in fragile economies ? UNESCO Transcultura Program ? Gender Equality ? Gap Gender ? International Cooperation ? Corporate Social Responsibility
"Breaking Barriers: A Feminist Exploration of Success Stories Among Women Over 50 Across Diverse Fields" delves into the celebration and acknowledgment of achievements among women over 50 through a feminist lens. The article highlights the intersectionality of age and gender, recognizing the distinct challenges faced by women from diverse backgrounds.
In the exploration of triumphs in business, it becomes evident that an inclusive culture fosters innovation and teamwork, breaking down glass ceilings and instigating positive change. Similarly, within the arts, the inclusion of women's voices from varied backgrounds reshapes cultural narratives, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of artistic contributions.
Scientific achievements by women over 50 underscore the importance of support and encouragement in STEM fields, emphasizing diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, the specific challenges faced by African women over 50 spotlight the necessity for resilience and innovation amidst limited access to opportunities.
Acknowledging the intersectionality of age and gender is crucial, as it sheds light on the unique obstacles encountered by older women across professions. Such an approach is pivotal in driving inclusive movements and promoting health equity through targeted interventions.
In conclusion, this article advocates for the recognition and celebration of women's accomplishments from a feminist and inclusive perspective. By embracing intersectionality, it paves the way for a more equitable future, where women of all ages and backgrounds are valued for their contributions in business, art, science, and beyond.
Keywords:
Coachability Foundation; Coachability; No More Muses; Successful women; Women over 50; Professional achievements; Empowerment; Leadership; Diversity in the workplace; Mentorship ; Ageism ; Resilience ; Inspirational stories
Breaking Barriers: A Feminist Exploration of Success Stories Among Women Over 50 Across Diverse Fields
Introduction:
Section 1: Triumphs in Business
Section 2: Artistic Brilliance
Celebrate their creative contributions and the unique perspectives they bring to the cultural landscape.
Section 3: Scientific Pioneers
Section 4: Inclusive Perspective: African +50 Women
Section 5 : Conclusion:
Introduction:
The article "Breaking Barriers: A Feminist Exploration of Success Stories Among Women Over 50 Across Diverse Fields" aims to celebrate the achievements of women over 50 from a feminist perspective, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their diverse accomplishments in business, art, science, and more. It also highlights the intersectionality of age and gender, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women in various backgrounds.
Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women over 50 is of paramount importance for several reasons:
1. Challenging Ageism: Society often marginalizes older women, particularly in professional spheres, perpetuating ageist stereotypes that deem them less valuable or capable. By highlighting the accomplishments of women over 50, we challenge these stereotypes and demonstrate that age is not a barrier to success or innovation.
2. Representation and Role Modeling: Celebrating the achievements of women over 50 provides important representation for younger generations. Seeing older women succeed in diverse fields serves as inspiration and proof that there is no expiration date on ambition or achievement. It provides role models for women of all ages, showing them what is possible at every stage of life.
3. Combatting Gender Inequality: Women, especially as they age, face systemic barriers and discrimination in the workforce. Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women over 50 highlights their contributions and talents, challenging the systemic gender inequality that often sidelines older women in favor of younger, male counterparts.
4. Valuing Experience and Expertise: Women over 50 often bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and wisdom gained from years of navigating their careers and life challenges. Recognizing their achievements acknowledges the value of this experience and expertise, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce and society.
5. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Diversity in age, as well as other aspects such as race, ethnicity, and background, enriches organizations and communities. Celebrating the achievements of women over 50 promotes diversity and inclusion by ensuring that their voices and perspectives are heard and valued in decision-making processes and societal narratives.
6. Economic Empowerment: Women over 50 represent a significant portion of the workforce and consumer base. Recognizing and celebrating their achievements can lead to greater economic empowerment for this demographic, ensuring that they have equal access to opportunities, resources, and recognition in the professional world.
Overall, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women over 50 is not just about acknowledging individual accomplishments; it is about challenging stereotypes, promoting inclusion, and building a more equitable society where women of all ages are valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
The article results provide insights into the challenges and achievements of women in business, arts, and entrepreneurship, as well as the impact of feminist perspectives on female entrepreneurs. The results also include examples of women over 50 who have achieved success in various fields, further supporting the importance of recognizing their accomplishments.
Section 1: Triumphs in Business
The success stories of women over 50 in the business world are both inspiring and impactful. These women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, entrepreneurship, and contributions to various industries, breaking barriers and reshaping the business landscape. The following key points from the search results highlight the remarkable achievements of women over 50 in the business world:
1. Forbes' 50 Over 50 List : Forbes has introduced the "50 Over 50" list, which features women over 50 who are achieving their greatest success in various fields, including entrepreneurship, leadership, and science[20]. This list showcases the remarkable accomplishments of women over 50, such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser, and Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng, who have made significant contributions to their respective fields after the age of 50.
2. Female Entrepreneurs Breaking Barriers : Female entrepreneurs are breaking through the glass ceiling and reshaping the business landscape, challenging traditional notions of leadership and revolutionizing male-dominated industries[21]. These women are not only proving their mettle but also driving significant changes in the business world.
3. Challenges Faced by Women Business Owners : Feminist research has identified the challenges faced by women business owners, including limited access to opportunities, capital, and professional networks[22]. This research emphasizes the need to address the structural barriers that restrict women's access to essential resources, highlighting the importance of creating equal opportunities for women in business.
4.? The Rose Review : The Rose Review aims to tap into the unrealized economic potential of female entrepreneurs by making the UK one of the best countries for female entrepreneurship[23]. The review acknowledges that while some of the UK's most innovative and successful businesses have been started and run by women, there is still a significant gender disparity in entrepreneurialism.
5. Feminist Agency Through Enterprise: The concept of "FemInc.ism" has been introduced to analyze the potential for men and women to use entrepreneurship to improve the situation for themselves and for other women[24]. This concept highlights the positive effects of feminist business ownership and the opportunities it provides for women to drive institutional change and improve their societal position.
These insights underscore the significant achievements of women over 50 in the business world, their resilience in overcoming challenges, and the need to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for female entrepreneurs.
The success stories of women over 50 in the business world exemplify their ability to shatter glass ceilings and bring about positive change in corporate environments. These women have defied stereotypes, challenged norms, and reshaped industries, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse business landscape. The following insights from the search results illustrate the ways in which women over 50 have shattered glass ceilings and brought about positive change in corporate environments:
1. Breaking Traditions and Challenging Norms: Female entrepreneurs have been breaking traditions and challenging norms, reshaping industries, and inspiring future generations. Their remarkable success in male-dominated industries is gradually shattering the glass ceiling, creating a more inclusive and diverse business landscape[25].
2. Overcoming Discriminatory Practices and Stereotypes: The prevalence of the glass ceiling, characterized by discriminatory practices and stereotypes, has long been a barrier for women aspiring to become entrepreneurs. However, the success stories of female entrepreneurs demonstrate their ability to thrive in the face of these challenges, contributing to the gradual dismantling of the glass ceiling[25].
3. Small Wins and Systemic Changes: Small wins, such as the achievements of women in business, break down systemic barriers to organizational effectiveness and create larger, systemic changes throughout the organization. The persistent campaigns of incremental change help companies root out discrimination and transform organizations by rebuilding them with more equitable practices for everyone[27].
4. FemInc.ism and Feminist Agency Through Enterprise: The concept of "FemInc.ism" highlights the potential for women to use entrepreneurship to improve their own position and drive institutional change. Women have used the enterprise form to enable institutional change, improving the situation for themselves and for other women, thereby contributing to the dismantling of systemic barriers and glass ceilings[29].
These insights underscore the resilience and impact of women over 50 in the business world, their role in challenging and reshaping corporate environments, and the need to continue fostering an inclusive and equitable business landscape.
- Showcase examples of women-led initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
Here are some examples of women-led initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, as highlighted in the search results:
1. Grow the Representation of Women in Leadership Roles: Many organizations are focusing on increasing the representation of women in leadership roles to promote gender equality. By doing so, they create a stronger sense of inclusivity and belonging within the organization[30].
2. Launch Gender Equality Campaigns: Initiating gender equality campaigns can raise awareness and promote inclusivity in the workplace. These campaigns encourage employees to review, question, and analyze their own biases and assumptions, fostering a more inclusive work environment[30].
3. Open Dialogue Approach: Companies like IBM have adopted an open dialogue approach to address diversity and inclusion. This approach encourages transparent conversations about diversity-related issues, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding[31].
4. Unconscious Bias Training: Organizations such as Starbucks have implemented unconscious bias training to help employees recognize and address their unconscious biases. This initiative promotes inclusivity by creating a more aware and empathetic workforce[31].
5. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Establishing and participating in ERGs can be an effective way to promote diversity and inclusion. ERGs provide a platform for employees to connect, share experiences, and drive positive change within the organization[33].
6. Company Policies and Practices for Gender Equality: Implementing company policies and practices that support gender equality and women's empowerment is crucial. This includes efforts to achieve equal pay for work of equal value, prevent and eliminate violence and harassment, and create a harmonious work-life balance for both women and men[34].
These initiatives and strategies are designed to create more inclusive and diverse workplaces, where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered.
Section 2: Artistic Brilliance
The achievements of women over 50 in the arts, including visual arts, literature, performing arts, and more, have been shaped by various challenges and barriers. The search results provide insights into the need for a more diverse and inclusive curriculum that showcases a wider range of perspectives and experiences in the art world[36]. It is essential to incorporate women's voices from diverse backgrounds to prevent the erasure of their contributions to the art world and to inspire and empower future generations of women artists[36].
Linda Nochlin's work, "Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?" (1971), is considered the first major work of feminist art history[38]. The essay examines the institutional exclusion and treatment of women in the arts, shedding light on the challenges and limitations that have historically hindered women's artistic achievements[38].
Feminist art epistemologies emphasize the importance of understanding feminist art and the need to diminish the viewer's desire to know more about the artist, including specific biographical information, in order to fully appreciate the artwork[4]. Additionally, studies have been conducted to understand whether men and women respond to art differently and whether gender influences the subjective evaluation of artworks[40].
These insights underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the systemic barriers that have limited the educational opportunities and career advancement of women in the arts. By promoting a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape, future generations of women artists can be inspired and empowered to make their own unique contributions to the art world.
Women over 50 have made groundbreaking discoveries, advancements, and leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated sectors, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, women in these fields still face significant challenges, including gender discrimination, lack of role models, and greater pressure to prove their skills[41].
In the field of science, women have made significant progress in recent years, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields and inspiring future generations[43]. However, despite the progress, women still face significant challenges in STEM fields, including a lack of female role models and a gender pay gap[41].
In the tech industry, women have been contributing to significant advancements for centuries, but the industry remains male-dominated[45]. Women in tech face challenges such as gender discrimination, lack of representation, and a lack of female role models[45]. However, there is a dire need for more women in the field, as women bring value to the field and have been proven to increase consumer spending, improve decision-making processes, encourage more inclusive societies, and increase sustainability efforts[45].
In male-dominated professions and environments, women face challenges such as a lack of support, limited access to opportunities, and a lack of female role models[42][44]. However, organizations can develop and implement policies, strategies, and initiatives geared towards attracting, integrating, retaining, supporting, and motivating women who are, or wish to be, employed in historically male-dominated occupations[42].
These insights underscore the need to address the systemic barriers that have limited the educational opportunities and career advancement of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. By promoting a more inclusive and diverse environment, future generations of women can be inspired and empowered to make their own unique contributions to these fields.
Here are some examples of women-led initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, as highlighted in the search results:
1. Grow the Representation of Women in Leadership Roles: According to the World Economic Forum, growing the representation of women in leadership roles is a key initiative for promoting gender equality in the workplace. This practice fosters a stronger sense of inclusivity and belonging within organizations[46].
2. Launch a Gender Equality Campaign: Initiating a gender equality campaign can raise awareness and promote inclusivity in the workplace. This practice encourages employees to review, question, and analyze their own personal biases and assumptions, fostering a more inclusive work environment[46].
3. Open Dialogue Approach: Companies like IBM have adopted an open dialogue approach to address diversity and inclusion. This practice encourages transparent conversations about diversity-related issues, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding[47].
4. Unconscious Bias Training: Organizations such as Starbucks have implemented unconscious bias training to help employees recognize and address their unconscious biases. This initiative promotes inclusivity by creating a more aware and empathetic workforce[47].
5.? Annual Diversity Reports and Public Disclosures: Annual diversity reports and public disclosures can help build trust, inspire industry-wide change, and encourage collective action. By addressing challenges head-on, organizations can navigate the path to building a lasting culture of diversity and inclusion[47].
6. Actively Engage in the Diversity Effort: Employees can actively engage in the diversity effort by participating in employee engagement surveys, responding openly and honestly, and taking part in or starting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)[49].
These initiatives and strategies are designed to create more inclusive and diverse workplaces, where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered.
Section 2: Artistic Brilliance
Women over 50 have made significant achievements in the arts, including visual arts, literature, performing arts, and more. However, they have faced various challenges, such as gender inequality, lack of representation, and limited access to opportunities and resources[51]. The following points highlight the accomplishments and contributions of women over 50 in the arts:
1. Linda Nochlin's "Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?" (1971): This essay is considered the first major work of feminist art history. It examines the institutional exclusion and treatment of women in the arts, shedding light on the challenges and limitations that have historically hindered women's artistic achievements[53].
2. Feminist Art Epistemologies: Feminist art epistemologies emphasize the importance of understanding feminist art and the need to diminish the viewer's desire to know more about the artist, including specific biographical information, in order to fully appreciate the artwork[54].
3. Gender and Evaluation in Fine Art: Studies have been conducted to understand whether men and women respond to art differently and whether gender influences the subjective evaluation of artworks[55]. These insights can help promote a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape.
4. Incorporating Women's Voices: It is essential for women's voices from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life to be incorporated into the art world to prevent the erasure of women's contributions and to create a more inclusive and accurate comprehension of art history[51].
These insights underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the systemic barriers that have limited the educational opportunities and career advancement of women in the arts. By promoting a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape, future generations of women can be inspired and empowered to make their own unique contributions to these fields.
Women over 50 in the arts have had a significant impact on cultural narratives, challenging stereotypes, and redefining artistic norms. The following points highlight the impact of women over 50 in the arts:
1. Breaking Cultural Barriers: Women curators in Nigeria are breaking cultural barriers, diversifying artistic narratives, and challenging stereotypes and prejudices, allowing for a more vibrant and inclusive art world[59]. Their curation reflects untold stories, hidden talents, and dismantles gender stereotypes.
2. Feminist Art Movement: The feminist art movement aimed to influence cultural attitudes and transform stereotypes, expanding the definition of fine art, and incorporating a wider variety of artistic perspectives[58]. Feminist artists sought the destruction of male-dominant social precepts, and focused less on the differences between men and women associated with 1970s Feminist Art.
3. Street Art and Feminism: Street art creates a space for female artists to flourish and showcase their talent, challenging gender disparities in the art world and bringing fresh perspectives to the forefront[60]. Through street art, women are portrayed as multi-dimensional individuals, challenging stereotypes and limited representations in mainstream media.
4. Incorporating Women's Voices: It is essential for women's voices from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life to be incorporated into the art world to prevent the erasure of women's contributions and to create a more inclusive and accurate comprehension of art history[56][57].
These insights underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the systemic barriers that have limited the educational opportunities and career advancement of women in the arts. By promoting a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape, future generations of women can be inspired and empowered to make their own unique contributions to these fields.
Women over 50 have made significant creative contributions and brought unique perspectives to the cultural landscape, challenging stereotypes and redefining artistic norms. Their impact on cultural narratives has been profound, fostering a more vibrant and inclusive artistic environment. The following insights from the search results highlight the importance of embracing cultural diversity and the impact it has on creativity and innovation:
1. Cultural Fusion and Artistic Expression: Cultural fusion, which occurs when individuals from different cultural backgrounds interact, brings a wealth of unique experiences, perspectives, and traditions. This fusion serves as a platform for communities to showcase their unique customs and offers an opportunity to celebrate the harmonious blend of diverse artistic expressions, redefining cultural narratives and challenging stereotypes[61].
2. Diversity of Viewpoints and Enhanced Creativity: Embracing cultural diversity expands perspectives and fuels creativity. When individuals from different cultural backgrounds come together, they bring a wealth of ideas, influences, and creative processes. This diversity of viewpoints challenges assumptions, expands thinking, and leads to more robust and innovative solutions, ultimately enhancing creativity and artistic expression[62].
3. Breaking Cultural Barriers and Diversifying Artistic Narratives: Women curators in Nigeria have been breaking cultural barriers, diversifying artistic narratives, and challenging stereotypes and prejudices. Their curation reflects untold stories, hidden talents, and dismantles gender stereotypes, enriching the art world and showcasing a broader range of experiences and perspectives[63].
4. Feminist Art Epistemologies: Feminist art epistemologies emphasize the importance of understanding feminist art and the need to diminish the viewer's desire to know more about the artist, including specific biographical information, in order to fully appreciate the artwork. This approach challenges traditional norms and encourages a more inclusive and diverse artistic landscape[65].
These insights underscore the transformative impact of women over 50 in the arts, their role in challenging stereotypes, and the importance of embracing cultural diversity to foster a more inclusive and innovative artistic environment.
Section 3: Scientific Pioneers.
The accomplishments of women over 50 in various scientific fields, including research, innovation, and education, are significant and have had a profound impact. Here are some examples of initiatives and achievements that showcase their contributions:
1. Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World: This illustrated hardcover book surveys 50 women scientists' achievements and biographies in a bold style, celebrating their groundbreaking contributions to science and their role in changing the world[66].
2. The 2022 Applied Physics by Pioneering Women: A Roadmap: This roadmap, written by women scientists and engineers, celebrates women's accomplishments and highlights their contributions across 15 sub-disciplines in applied physics. It aims to inspire others and accelerate efforts to improve women's representation in the field[67].
3. Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Life Sciences: Women in the life sciences have made significant progress, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Their achievements are inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in life sciences and contribute to the industry[68].
4. Introducing The 50 Over 50: Women Proving Success Has No Age Limit: This initiative by Forbes celebrates women over 50 who are achieving their greatest success in various fields, including science. It recognizes their achievements and the impact they are making in their respective industries[69].
5. The Women Who Changed The Tech World: This article celebrates the outstanding achievements of women in STEM, including those who have made significant contributions to the tech industry. It highlights their innovative work and the impact they have had on the field[70].
These examples showcase the remarkable achievements of women over 50 in scientific fields, their leadership, and the impact they have made in driving innovation and progress.
Women over 50 have made significant groundbreaking discoveries, advancements, and leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Some examples include:
1. Barriers and Discrimination: Women in the tech industry face various barriers, such as gender inequality, lack of representation, and limited access to opportunities and resources[71]. Despite these challenges, they continue to make significant contributions to the field.
2. Invisible Aspects of Male-Dominated Institutional Culture: Women in male-dominated occupations, such as STEM fields, often face invisible aspects of the institutional culture that marginalize them[72]. Despite these challenges, they continue to make groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.
3. Role Models and Inspiration: Women in life sciences have made significant progress in recent years, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields and serving as role models for the next generation[73]. Their achievements inspire other women to pursue careers in STEM and contribute to the industry.
4. Gender Gap in Tech: The tech sector has traditionally been male-dominated, but in recent years, more women have taken the first step towards true equality, making a name for themselves in the field and showing that women belong in tech[75]. These pioneering women have broken down barriers and paved the way for future generations.
5. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Women in leadership positions in male-dominated professions can promote diversity and inclusion by implementing recruitment and retention initiatives, personal development opportunities, and fostering an open and inclusive environment[74].
These examples showcase the remarkable achievements of women over 50 in traditionally male-dominated sectors, their leadership, and the impact they have made in driving innovation and progress.
Supporting and encouraging women in STEM fields at all stages of their careers is crucial for promoting gender equality and driving innovation. The search results provide several insights on how to support and encourage women in STEM fields:
1. Attracting Girls and Young Women to STEM: Attracting girls and young women to STEM fields is essential to building a pipeline of future STEM talent. This can be achieved through outreach work, highlighting the importance of STEM education, and designing the curriculum to be more inclusive[76].
2. Enabling STEM Potential: Enabling STEM potential involves providing opportunities for women to develop their skills and knowledge in STEM fields. This can be achieved through mentorship, internships, and scholarships targeting specifically women[77].
3. Supporting Women in STEM Careers: Supporting women in STEM careers involves providing a supportive system that includes mentoring, networking opportunities, and a complaints system to address any issues of discrimination or bias[78].
4. Specific Programs and Inter-Institutional Committees on Gender and STEM.: Specific programs and inter-institutional committees on gender and STEM can help reduce the gender gap in STEM fields. These programs can include training and strengthening female entrepreneurs in innovation and STEM[77].
5. Role Models and Inspiration: Role models and inspiration play a crucial role in motivating girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. Women professors, who can act as role models, break down stereotypes and encourage girls to pursue careers in STEM[78].
These insights underscore the importance of supporting and encouraging women in STEM fields at all stages of their careers. By promoting a more inclusive and diverse STEM landscape, future generations of women can be inspired and empowered to make their own unique contributions to these fields.
Section 4: Inclusive Perspective: African +50 Women.
African women over 50 face various challenges in different professional spheres, including health, employment, and social issues. Some of these challenges include:
1. Health: Women in Africa represent slightly over 50% of the continent's human resources, and their health has significant implications for the region's development[81]. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for women older than 50 in the sub-Saharan African region[83]. Moreover, black women are especially vulnerable to certain health conditions, such as heart disease and breast cancer[85].
2. Employment: Employment for women is strong, with 72% of women aged 50 to 54 employed as of February 2022[82]. However, black women in the United States, for example, face disparities in access to quality jobs and fair wages[87]. Despite these challenges, African women have been breaking barriers and taking up spaces in various fields, including business, technology, and governance[84].
3. Social Issues: African women continue to be the mainstay of families and often face extreme adversity, including social, gender, and economic challenges[86]. They are often peacemakers, life-givers, entrepreneurs, and providers of care for children, which are essential roles in building Africa's future[86].
Despite these challenges, African women over 50 are making significant strides in various fields and contributing to the continent's development. They are breaking barriers, taking up spaces in leadership positions, and addressing Africa's most pressing issues, such as peace and security, gender justice, and climate change[89].
African women have made significant strides in various fields, showcasing their resilience and innovation. Here are some success stories of African women in business, arts, sciences, and community leadership:
1. Business:
???- Mlambo-Ngcuka, a trailblazer in human rights, equality, and social justice, with a focus on gender and youth[92].
???- Arlene Mulder, winner of the Forbes Woman Africa Technology and Innovation Award in 2019, co-founded the not-for-profit organization WeThinkCode, which aims to democratize education and advance Africa's digital economy[95].
???- Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa's first black female winemaker, has made a name for herself in the industry and is an inspiration to other African women[95].
2. Arts:
???- Teta Isibo, founder of a jewelry and accessories brand in Rwanda, demonstrates resilience and innovation in the face of challenges[98].
3. Sciences:
???- Flavia Josephine Namugga, a 47-year-old mother and advocate for women's empowerment, has been a beacon of hope in her community[96].
4. Community Leadership:
???- Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, a barrister, politician, and former Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection in Ghana[94].
???- Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Executive Director of the Ark Foundation, and Patricia Blankson Akakpo, Programme Manager at Network for Women’s Rights in Ghana, have been inspiring future female leaders[94].
These women have overcome various challenges and have made a significant impact in their respective fields, serving as role models and inspirations for other African women. Their stories highlight the importance of resilience, innovation, and determination in achieving success.
Several initiatives and organizations are dedicated to empowering and uplifting African women, including those over 50, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers. Here are some of them:
1.? Women Africa: Women Africa is a sub-regional organization committed to the institutionalization of gender equality, social justice, and the entrenchment of sustainable development. It works towards maximizing the contributions of women to Africa’s development potentials through various initiatives, including promoting the broadest participation of women and girls in the leadership space, ending sexual and gender-based violence, and empowering communities to advocate for gender-responsive interventions[99].
2.? UN Women: Through regional and national interventions, UN Women aims to empower women to increase income, build assets, wealth, and business leadership. The program facilitates women’s access to productive resources and business services by addressing agriculture, trade, and building women’s and youth’s agribusiness and entrepreneurship skills across the value chain[101].
3. African Women's Development Fund (AWDF): AWDF is a Pan-African grant-making organization that supports the realization and fulfillment of African women’s rights through funding autonomous women’s organizations on the continent. It provides resources, support, and nurtures African women’s rights organizations and feminist movements to sustain themselves[105].
4. African Women in Business Initiative (AWIB): This initiative responds to the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) Private Sector Development in particular SMEs, through better access to finance. It aims to contribute to a more equitable business environment for women entrepreneurs and enhance their financial inclusion[106].
These initiatives and organizations play a crucial role in promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, and leadership development for African women, including those over 50, and are instrumental in fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers across the continent.
African women over 50 have made significant achievements in various fields, including business, arts, sciences, and community leadership. They have broken barriers, challenged the status quo, and paved the way for future generations. Initiatives and organizations such as Women Africa, UN Women, African Women's Development Fund, and African Women in Business Initiative are dedicated to empowering and uplifting African women, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers. These women have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and determination in achieving success, serving as role models and inspirations for other African women. It is crucial to continue promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, and leadership development for African women, including those over 50, to ensure a sustainable future for the continent. (108,109,110,11,112,113,114,115,116)
Recognizing and valuing the contributions of women at all stages of their careers is crucial. Women have made significant contributions to various fields, including business, arts, sciences, and community leadership. Initiatives and organizations such as Women Africa, UN Women, African Women's Development Fund, and African Women in Business Initiative are dedicated to empowering and uplifting African women, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers. Women over 50 have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and determination in achieving success, serving as role models and inspirations for other African women. It is essential to continue promoting gender equality, economic empowerment, and leadership development for women to ensure a sustainable future for the continent. Age is just a number, and retirement should not be the end of the road for women who continue to power their way into history books and inspire future generations. (117,118,119,120,121,122,123,124,125)
It is crucial to continue supporting, mentoring, and providing opportunities for women at all stages of their careers. Initiatives and organizations such as Women Africa, UN Women, African Women's Development Fund, and African Women in Business Initiative are dedicated to empowering and uplifting African women, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers. Recognizing and valuing the contributions of women at all stages of their careers is essential to promote gender equality, economic empowerment, and leadership development for women, ensuring a sustainable future for the continent. It is important to promote a more inclusive and equitable future for all, where women are supported and valued for their contributions to various fields, including business, arts, sciences, and community leadership. (126.127,128,129,130.131.132,133,134)
Section 5 : Conclusion:
The diverse achievements of women over 50 in various fields, when viewed through a feminist and inclusive lens, showcase a remarkable resilience, innovation, and determination. These women have not only defied ageist and sexist stereotypes but also made significant contributions to society in different areas, such as business, arts, sciences, and community leadership.
Some key takeaways from these success stories include:
1. The importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women at all stages of their careers, particularly those who have surmounted unique challenges due to the intersectionality of age and gender[135].
2. The need for organizations to close the gender gap by providing additional conferences, trainings, and mentorship programs for employees[135].
3. The catalytic effect of women in leadership positions, driving more women to have higher professional and education aspirations[136].
4. The significance of feminist movements and their impact on social and policy changes, such as those against gender-based violence and femicide[136].
5. The value of opening doors for women leaders, as it allows for learning from their experiences and insights, thereby enlarging diversity and fostering a more inclusive environment[136].
By amplifying these diverse narratives, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future, where women of all backgrounds are empowered to thrive. It is crucial to continue supporting and promoting women in various fields, ensuring that their legacies inspire generations to come.[137,138,139].
Recognizing and valuing the contributions of women at all stages of their careers is crucial. Women over 50 have made significant contributions to society in various fields, and their achievements should be celebrated. Organizations should provide additional conferences, trainings, and mentorship programs for employee improvements, and actively strive to hire, retain, and promote women. Women in leadership positions have a catalytic effect, driving more women to have higher professional and education aspirations. Feminist movements against gender-based violence and femicide have led to important social and policy changes. Opening doors for women leaders also opens doors to learning from their experiences and insights, enlarging diversity and fostering a more inclusive environment. It is essential to assess the usefulness of feminist research agendas in doing gender work and recognize the importance of feminist philosophy in the commitment to human rights, equality, diversity, and social justice. (140,141,142,143,144)
Continued support, mentorship, and opportunities for women are crucial in promoting a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Mentoring programs, especially those that involve women mentoring women, can help women break barriers and advance in their careers[145][148]. Organizations should provide additional conferences, training, and mentorship programs for employee improvements, and actively strive to hire, retain, and promote women[146][147]. Women in leadership positions have a catalytic effect, driving more women to have higher professional and education aspirations[145]. Feminist movements against gender-based violence and femicide have led to important social and policy changes too[145]. Investing in women from different identities and cultural backgrounds, women of color, LGBTQIA+ women, and women with disabilities is an effective way of making workplaces more adaptive, flexible, and innovative[148]. Programs that showcase success stories of girls and women majoring in STEM can help break barriers and inspire more women to pursue careers in these fields[149]. By providing support, mentorship, and opportunities for women, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Curator Montse Domínguez i Munllonch
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#LeadershipWisdom
#nomoremuses
#DiversityInWorkplace
#MentorshipMatters
#BreakingStereotypes
#AgeIsJustANumber
#WomenInPower
#ResilientLeadership
CITACIONS.
[5] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13675494231173658?icid=int.sj-abstract.citing-articles.2
[16] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13675494231173658?icid=int.sj-abstract.citing-articles.2
[23] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5c8147e2e5274a2a595bb24a/RoseReview_Digital_FINAL.PDF
[31] https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/promoting-workplace-diversity-inclusion-inspiring-success-ociti
[37] https://www.writing.upenn.edu/library/Nochlin-Linda_Why-Have-There-Been-No-Great-Women-Artists.pdf
[47] https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/promoting-workplace-diversity-inclusion-inspiring-success-ociti
[52] https://www.writing.upenn.edu/library/Nochlin-Linda_Why-Have-There-Been-No-Great-Women-Artists.pdf
[76] https://business-school-expertise.exeter.ac.uk/article/how-to-empower-women-to-pursue-stem-careers/
[105] https://awdf.org
[115] https://awdf.org
[119] https://houseofroseprofessional.com/africa-2023/africas-most-inspirational-women-in-leadership-2023/
[120] https://awdf.org
[124] https://womenafrica.org
[127] https://awdf.org
[145] https://www.togetherplatform.com/blog/benefits-of-women-mentoring-women-plus-tips-on-how-to-start
[148] https://www.mentoringcomplete.com/why-mentoring-women-in-the-workplace-is-more-important-than-ever/
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
1. Books:
???- "Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men" by Caroline Criado Perez
???- "Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age" by Jo Ann Jenkins
???- "The Third Chapter: Passion, Risk, and Adventure in the 25 Years After 50" by Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot
2. Academic Journals:
???- "Age and Ageing" - A peer-reviewed international journal covering research on the aging process.
???- "Journal of Women & Aging" - Focuses on issues related to women's aging experiences.
- " Breaking down barriers: The identification of actions to promote gender equality in interdisciplinary marine research institutions"
3. Articles:
???- "The Rise of Older Women Entrepreneurs" by Anne Tergesen (The Wall Street Journal)
???- "The New Midlife Crisis for Women" by Ada Calhoun (Time Magazine)
- " Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists? by LINDA NOCHLIN
4. Research Reports:
???- AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons) produces research reports on various aspects of aging, including women's experiences.
5. Websites/Organizations:
???- AARP - The organization's website provides a wealth of information on aging, work, and life after 50.
???- Center for Women and Work at Rutgers University - Conducts research on gender, diversity, and the workplace.
6. Documentary/Films:
???- "RBG" - A documentary on the life and career of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, showcasing her impact on gender equality and her work well into her later years.
7. TED Talks:
???- "What We Don't Teach Kids About Sex" by Sue Jaye Johnson - Discusses societal expectations and perceptions of women's roles as they age.
PICS
Co-Founder at Tunaweza innovation hub, mentor, life coach, personal and professional development trainer
9 个月personally am a personal development coach in uganda and also looking forward to develop our society thru providing trainings on social entrepreneurship
Co-Founder at Tunaweza innovation hub, mentor, life coach, personal and professional development trainer
9 个月love the idea