It started with a book! LEAN IN: WOMEN, WORK, AND THE WILL TO LEAD

A week has passed and I’m reflecting on a truly incredible experience at the Lean In Global Network Leaders Conference in San Francisco.

I recently had the opportunity to be invited to share my Lean In Leadership journey at the Lean In Global Network Leaders Conference in San Francisco in July as part of the newly elected Advisory Board. I can confidently say that it was a transformative experience. As I reflect on the conference, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. No better time than now to kick off my own newsletter about the things I care deeply about. After a decade of leaning in I was honoured to share my journey with Lean In Network, Belfast and Lean In Network, Dublin .

Let me share my key takeaways and the impact the experience had on me personally and professionally.

1. Connecting with a Global Community:

The conference brought together 83 leaders from 29 different countries, representing 80,000 circles. It was truly inspiring to connect and reconnect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about empowering women. The diversity and representation at the conference were unparalleled, and it reminded me of the collective strength we hold as a global community.

2. Shared Challenges:

One of the most powerful aspects of the conference was the realization that regardless of our backgrounds or locations, women face similar challenges. The keynote speeches from the Network Leaders Advisory Board members resonated deeply with me as they highlighted the common struggles we all encounter. Whether we came from Kuwait, Argentina, Nigeria, Somalia, Mexico, Canada, the USA or my hometown of Belfast, the message was clear: we are in this together, and by supporting one another, we can overcome any obstacle.

3. Learning and Growth:

The conference was a hub of knowledge and learning. We had the opportunity to explore various workshops and sessions that covered topics such as communication, new programs for leaders and communities, and the different forms of bias that exist. It was eye-opening to discover that there are nearly 100 forms of bias , and it reinforced the importance of addressing these issues, particularly for women of color and women with disabilities.

4. Lean In Girls Initiative:

One of the most exciting announcements at the conference was the launch of Lean In Girls , a program designed to prepare young girls aged 11-14 for the realities of the professional world. This initiative highlights the importance of early empowerment and equipping young girls with the tools they need to succeed. It was inspiring to witness the commitment to empowering the next generation.

5. Building Meaningful Connections:

The people I met at the conference left a lasting impression on me. From hearing incredible stories about the progress being made for women in Mumbai, the girls in Tongo, to a global online circle for working mothers, I was inspired by the impact being made worldwide. The organizers of the conference prioritized inclusion and created safe spaces for everyone to connect and share their experiences.

6. Laughter and Fun as Great Levellers:

While the conference was packed with insightful discussions and meaningful conversations, it also provided ample opportunities for laughter and fun.?

Laughter served as a great equalizer, reminding us that despite our diverse backgrounds and experiences, we all share a common human spirit. The joy and camaraderie shared during the conference created a sense of unity that transcended any differences, allowing us to connect on a deeper level. It reminded us that while we strive for gender equality, we can also enjoy the journey and find moments of levity along the way.

These moments of collective joy not only brought us closer together but also rejuvenated our spirits, enabling us to return to our respective communities with renewed energy and motivation.

7. Gratitude towards the Foundation Team and Sheryl Sandberg

The success of the Lean In Global Leaders Conference would not have been possible without the unwavering support, generosity, and determination of the foundation team - kudos to Nikki Pawsey and its visionary leader, Sheryl Sandberg. We are immensely grateful for their tireless efforts in empowering women and driving positive change.

Conclusion:

As I returned from the Lean In Global Network Leaders Conference I couldn't help but feel a surge of motivation and a renewed sense of purpose. The conference reminded me that I don't need to ask permission to have a voice; I simply need to use it. It encouraged me to think bigger and bolder, both in expanding my network and in my work . The experience reinforced the power of community, the importance of inclusivity, and the need to continuously strive for gender equality.

Attending this conference was a reminder that we are part of a global movement, and together, we can break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and empower women worldwide. I am grateful for this experience and excited to continue my journey with Lean In, making a difference in the lives of women everywhere.

Let's lean in, reflect, rejoice, and reconnect to create a world where every woman can thrive. If you would like to join a circle or network near you please check out https://leanin.org ?

LEAN IN: WOMEN, WORK AND THE WILL TO LEAD was first published in March 2013. It is a thought-provoking book written by Sheryl Sandberg ex Meta COO. It explores the challenges women face in the workforce and provides valuable insights on how to empower and advance women's careers.

LeanIn.org empowers women to take the lead and pursue their dreams

In?Lean In Circles , women get and give peer mentorship, learn new skills, and have a place to be unapologetically ambitious. More than 80,000 women in 183 countries have started a Circle, and new ones are starting every day.