In a society recently rampaged by hegemonic masculinity, sexual harassment and the revival of old power struggles, many people do not recognise themselves in this new world order and aspire to a change in the practice of power. New leaders are revoking the traditional models of authoritarian power and aspiring to a power model based on demonstrated competences and strong values rather than acquired authority. The notion of power is changing, and with this change, leadership models must evolve too.
We need women in leadership because power must be shared. By sharing the power between men and women, we will create diverse and inclusive cultures, that value differences and collaboration, that will free up women and men to lead on their own terms, rather than conform to the traditional norm. Such inclusive cultures will also make it easier for women to say no when they find themselves harassed or in uncomfortable positions. But women cannot do it alone, and we need men with the courage to lead in inclusive and conscious ways, with a long-term vision that boosts collective growth, sustainable progress and new thinking.
Women and men need to step up, build their influence, redefine the rules of power and success and how they can be achieved. It is by showing how power can also be collaborative, inclusive and shared, and by becoming conscious leaders, that we will step-change the balance of power and bring about gender balance.
