When we give opportunity to women, we don’t lose influence, we expand it

“Give to Gain” reminds us that when leaders create opportunities for others to step forward, they are not just empowering individuals, they are shaping stronger, more inclusive systems for the future. “

For me, one of the most powerful “Give to Gain” moments in my career came early in my telecom journey when I was given the opportunity to move from a technical IT role into a newly created Regulatory Affairs function. 

As a technocrat, stepping into the world of policy and regulation felt daunting, particularly in an industry that was almost entirely male-dominated at the time. Yet senior leaders saw potential beyond my current role and trusted me with that opportunity. 

Embracing this challenge transformed my career trajectory. Sitting at policy tables where I was often the only woman present pushed me to find my voice and influence conversations that shaped the telecom sector. At the same time, my technical background enabled me to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions, helping translate complex technology nuances into practical regulatory frameworks. In many ways, the organization gained as much as I did from that opportunity. 

That experience shaped my leadership philosophy: when we give people the chance to step into unfamiliar spaces, we unlock both individual potential and organizational value. Sometimes all it takes is one moment of trust for someone to discover their voice and grow into leadership.

“The shift from being capable to being influential begins the moment you believe your voice belongs at the table.”

The growth of women in leadership over the past decades has been more than progress, it has been transformation. We’ve moved from conversations about representation to conversations about influence. 

From asking for a seat at the table to shaping the agenda. From navigating systems that weren’t designed for inclusion to actively redesigning them. Women leaders today are not just participating — they are driving strategy, leading transformation, and redefining what effective leadership looks like. 

Empathy is recognized as strength. 

Collaboration is seen as a performance driver. 

Inclusive decision-making is understood as smart business. 

This shift didn’t happen by chance. It happened because opportunities were given and because women delivered when those opportunities came. 

That is the essence of Give to Gain. 

When organizations invest in women’s leadership, they gain broader thinking, stronger engagement, and greater resilience. When we elevate diverse perspectives, we strengthen decision-making and future-proof our businesses. 

The lesson from women who lead is that progress multiplies when we lift others as we rise.