PURPOSE
Advice for women leaders in Africa
Here , Awamary offers advice for women looking to lead in Africa .
Be your sister ’ s keeper African women leaders have the responsibility of pulling other women into leadership positions . They need to be intentional about mentoring and sponsoring other potential women leaders into top management spaces . Mentorship is such an important part of growth . Every woman should have a mentor or coach .
Be intentional about being transformational Being a leader in a predominantly male dominated field can be difficult . Some women leaders feel the need to be autocratic because of insubordination challenges . Be transformational , not transactional . Encourage open communication , inspire others and intellectually stimulate your followers .
Be intentional about changing systems and encourage creativity .
Serve on a non-profit board In some countries in Africa , there ’ s a challenge for women to serve on boards . Most boards comprise men : a good ol ’ boys club . Women leaders need to challenge the status quo and request a place on boards to increase the diversity of thought for these organisations . This also helps women leaders expand their networks and skillsets , opens doors for possible mentorship opportunities , and increases growth opportunities .
Expand your network and circle Networking helps you to strive , both personally and professionally . Your circle of influence should be a village : with diversity of thoughts , experience , age , race , and gender . Be intentional about networking . Even if some communities shy away from this due to patriarchal beliefs , remember that your network is your net worth .
36 July 2022