Embracing Feminine Energy: Reflections on Renewal, Resilience, and the Road Ahead

After a brief social media hiatus, I return with reflections close to my heart. It seems fitting that my first blog of the year focuses on feminine energy and new beginnings; and then this is the month we celebrate International Women’s day!!

As January came to a close, I had the privilege of joining extraordinary women leaders in Mumbai to celebrate St. Bridget's Day—a day honouring feminine energy and marking the first day of spring. Like many feminine deities and saints across cultures, St. Bridget represents renewal and the nurturing power that sustains our world.

The gathering brought together women from diverse backgrounds—diplomats, corporate executives, artists, filmmakers, and social entrepreneurs. As we shared our stories, a common thread emerged: the journey hasn't been easy, but it has been profoundly meaningful.

We acknowledged those pioneering women who, beginning in the early 1970s, ventured bravely into male-dominated spaces—foreign service, boardrooms, and beyond. Many endured considerable hardship to create pathways for future generations of women. Their sacrifices allow us to dream of true equality today.

What struck me most was the universal experience across cultures and continents: women consistently working harder to prove themselves, not once but repeatedly. The journey for those who started their careers in the '70s and '80s has indeed held more trials than triumphs.

Yet we also recognized the vital role of supportive men—husbands, fathers, mentors, and allies—who stood beside women when such support was rare. These partnerships represent the collaborative future we continue to build.

However, unconscious bias remains a formidable challenge. As I listened to each woman's journey, I was reminded that our work isn't finished. True progress requires ongoing vigilance and commitment. Our responsibility now extends to the next generation. We must speak to our daughters about breaking glass ceilings rather than Cinderella's glass slippers. Equally important, we must raise sons who understand and value women's empowerment. Making men and boys integral to this evolution isn't optional—it's essential.

If I could speak to my younger self, I would say: "Your path may not be smooth, but your voice matters. You may stumble, fall, and lose your way, but that doesn't mean you're lost forever. The challenges and hurdles you face, and eventually overcome, will become the stepping stones for those who follow. Which is why you have the greatest responsibility one can have: leaving behind a legacy that acts as a guiding light for young women finding their own path in life."

By honouring feminine energy in all its forms—the strength to nurture, the courage to speak truth, the wisdom to collaborate—we create organizations and communities where everyone can thrive.

Today, I'm grateful for every woman who has shared her struggle and triumph, and for every ally who has walked beside us. Together, we continue writing a new chapter in the ancient story of feminine power.