Wednesday, 20th March 2024, the Strathmore Global Institute, Tanzania, hosted the Women Rise and Lead Forum in commemoration of International Women’s Day. This event aimed to spotlight the progress and hurdles faced by women in the private sector, with a keen focus on fostering gender diversity and inclusion in organizational leadership.
Recent findings from McKinsey highlight Africa’s strides in female representation at the board and executive levels. However, a lingering challenge persists: the “Leaking Pipeline Syndrome,” which witnesses a decline in female talent along corporate hierarchies. In a bid to tackle this issue head-on, the forum posed two critical questions:
- What are the underlying causes of female talent attrition in organizational structures?
- How can businesses effectively address this challenge and cultivate gender diversity and inclusion?
Flora Makule, the Chief Financial Officer at Reliance Insurance, and an alumna of Strathmore University, renowned for her corporate journey and expertise, delivered compelling opening remarks setting the tone for the discussions of the day. The guest speaker, Gloria Lema, delivered the keynote address titled “Championing Your Own Cause.” Gloria delved into the intricate relationship between perfectionism, self-sabotage, and imposter syndrome, offering invaluable insights garnered from her own career experiences.
The highlight was a dynamic panel discussion, “Creating Inclusive Organizations,” featuring Ruth Neema Swai, Nazael Julius, and Ester Bgoya, moderated by Flora Makule. The panelists shared pragmatic strategies and personal experiences in fostering inclusive workplace environments, emphasizing their impact on talent retention and organizational success.
Throughout the event, the participants reflected on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Inspire Inclusion, emphasizing collective action’s role in promoting gender equality and empowerment.
In her closing remarks, Tumaini Kikoti appreciated the participants and speakers for driving meaningful dialogue and actionable solutions. The ‘Rise and Lead Forum’ continues to catalyze positive change across industries.
The ‘Rise and Lead Forum’ set the stage for the upcoming Strathmore Global Institute ‘Women in Leadership Programme,’ Tanzania edition. This immersive three-day journey empowers women leaders with tools and strategies for success, fostering invaluable networks with leaders from diverse backgrounds and sectors.
About the Strathmore Global Institute, Tanzania
Strathmore Global Institute (SGI), Tanzania is at the forefront of Africa’s transformation. Committed to excellence in professional development and executive education, SGI provides transformative learning experiences for individuals and organizations worldwide.
We offer a variety of Programmes, spanning across leadership development, executive coaching, corporate governance, entrepreneurship, agribusiness, public policy, and climate change among others. Our Programmes are offered in two formats: open enrollment programs and tailor-made programs. Learn more about our offerings here
Article by Juliet Hinga
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Your journey to business excellence starts here. Subscribe today and be at the forefront of innovation and leadership.
