“Sustainability includes building systems that empower people equitably and evolve with the times. True progress requires dismantling the barriers that keep leadership from reflecting the diversity of our society.” ~Julia Andrea Abad, Executive Director of the FEU Public Policy Center
What does it take to shape a future where leadership is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable in our social and institutional systems?
That was the main topic of discussion at the Nextgen Organization of Women Corporate Directors' (NOWCD) June 23 session, “Breaking Barriers: Women Leading in Business and Beyond,” held at the BPI Wealth Lounge in Makati City. Leaders from academia, business, and government came together to discuss the advancements in women's leadership and the structural adjustments required to sustain them.
The Far Eastern University (FEU) Public Policy Center was at the forefront of the discussion, and their involvement confirmed the university's longstanding dedication to scholarship, inclusivity, and leadership that is ready for the future.
Mariana Zobel de Ayala of Ayala Land, Robina Gokongwei-Pe of Robinsons Retail, Col. Francel Margareth Padilla of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Dr. Jean Franco, a political science professor at UP Diliman, participated in a lively panel discussion moderated by Julia Andrea Abad, Executive Director of the FEU Public Policy Center. Collectively, they investigated the lived experiences of women in leadership positions, the function of mentoring, and the ways in which organizations might change to promote more diversity at the top.
The research presentation given by Patricia Thea Basilio, a Data Analyst at the FEU Public Policy Center, was a pivotal moment in the debate. Basilio presented results on gender perceptions among Filipino college students based on their 2024 College Experience Survey. According to the study, sexist beliefs are still common among young people, particularly men, and are frequently associated with a greater desire for leadership positions. These bring up significant issues about the leadership landscape of the nation in the future.
“We found that many of those aspiring to lead still hold beliefs that could limit the very inclusivity they are meant to champion. This calls for deeper reflection on how we cultivate both skills and values in our future leaders.” ~Patricia Thea Basilio, a Data Analyst at the FEU Public Policy Center
Gianna Montinola, Consultant for External Affairs, introduced keynote speaker Mariana Zobel de Ayala on behalf of FEU's senior leadership. Montinola's participation demonstrated FEU's wider institutional support for inclusion, equity, and diversity in many fields.
“Inclusive leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, investment, and collaboration. As an academic institution, FEU takes this responsibility seriously, both in what we teach and in the research we pursue.” ~Gianna Montinola, Consultant for External Affairs
As the only academic research voice present, FEU offered a distinct viewpoint that combined real-world suggestions with empirical observations to foster inclusive leadership in a changing global environment. A plea to keep creating networks that help women not only achieve leadership positions but also thrive in them was made as the event came to an end.
As for the institution, the effort goes on: producing meaningful data, encouraging discussions that question conventions, and equipping students to lead with competence and ideals.
No comments:
Post a Comment