The Green Diaries #2: Gender bias are messing with our heads

As we rapidly approach International Women's Day, it's a great opportunity to reflect on the importance of women in today's societies and the need for gender equality. But, I believe that we need to talk about this issue in a more regular and ongoing manner, rather than just once a year. To that end, I'd like to share a short personal story that reflects how gender bias can have a significant impact on girls, women, and our future. As managers and leaders, I hope this will serve as a reminder that we need to be mindful of the need for equal opportunities for all.

Growing up in a male-dominated family with a world-famous boxing champion for a brother, another who is a hobby boxer and having eight nephews, I felt like I was one of the boys in the gang, and this helped me to become braver at an early stage in my life.?

I was always the first one to speak out at events, to start conversations, and even today I am the woman who will walk up to a board member and start a conversation. Being around boys taught me a lot about how to strive for more without fear and this has been a valuable asset when it comes to my career.

Having the courage to be brave, to speak out, to dare to do more, is expected from boys in today's society, and to excel in the business world you need those same skills. But for girls, this isn't always the case. Therefore, it's important not to forget that we need to continue to encourage girls to build their courage and self-confidence in the same way that we encourage boys.

Women have a key role to play in business and sustainability, whether they're starting their own companies, working as venture capitalists or driving forward ESG and environmental impact initiatives. We must continue to create an equal playing field, through professional development and formal mentoring programs, so women can reach their business and leadership goals.

As the future of the workplace looks towards greater equality, the key lessons we can take away from childhood and those early years around boys is that we need to continue to foster courage and creativity in our daughters, sons and all people alike, so that we can strive for a more sustainable and equitable future.

It has never been more important to continue to prioritize gender balance and allow women to reach their full potential, regardless of gender -- because it's only then that we will be able to cultivate societies that are strong, supportive and ready to make a lasting global impact.

Let me close with one of my favourite inspirational videos. This video serves as a reminder that young girls everywhere can be empowered to stand up for themselves and defy prevalent gender stereotypes.

They can be bold and brave, and not be held back by the expectations placed on them by society.