SAP Canada Leaders Highlight ‘Lift as We Rise’ for International Women’s Day
This year, on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day with the inspiring theme ‘Lift as We Rise.’ This message underscores the essence of collaboration and mutual support. At the heart of this initiative is the belief that when women support each other, everyone benefits.
Empowerment Through Experience
Women in leadership positions often reflect on their journeys and the challenges they faced. Victoria DeBoon, Vice President at SAP Canada, highlights the struggle of being one of the few women in a male-dominated industry. She learned that self-advocacy is crucial for success. DeBoon emphasizes that women often feel the need to meet higher standards before taking risks, which can hinder their progress. She encourages women to step forward with confidence.
Finding One’s Place
Similarly, Cathy Tough, Country Manager at SAP Canada, shares her experiences in the utilities sector. Initially, she remained quiet during meetings, which was often misinterpreted as a lack of confidence. By choosing to assert herself, Tough found her voice and presence in professional settings.
The Importance of Advocacy
Christine Vukusic, Head of Strategy and Operations at SAP Labs Canada, learned the significance of advocacy early in her career. After being overlooked for a potential role, she recognized that clear communication with management is as vital as performing well. This realization transformed her approach to career development.
- Advocating for yourself and others is key to professional growth.
- Recognizing the contributions of others fosters a supportive culture.
- Companies with diverse leadership tend to outperform competitors.
Mentorship: Paying It Forward
Michelle Zorn, Industry Account Executive at SAP Canada, embodies the spirit of mentorship. She believes in creating opportunities for others, advocating for a ‘pay it forward’ approach. Zorn encourages those she helps to extend their support to others in need.
Sonia Daigle, Vice President at SAP Canada, echoes this sentiment, attributing her success to a mentor who taught her the value of uplifting others. Daigle believes that every interaction is an opportunity for growth both personally and collectively.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Creating a culture of collaboration is essential for cultivating generosity in the workplace. As Cathy Tough points out, intentional efforts are required to develop an environment where every individual feels safe and valued. Such a culture can significantly contribute to the principle of ‘Lift as We Rise.’
Looking to the Future
For the women entering the technology field today, the hope is that they encounter fewer barriers and more opportunities. The insights shared by these leaders reveal a clear path forward: Speak up, advocate for yourself and others, and embrace the power of mentorship.
This International Women’s Day, let’s commit to adopting the ‘Lift as We Rise’ mindset. Simple actions like mentoring, recognizing a colleague’s efforts, or expressing appreciation can collectively create a more inclusive future.
Happy International Women’s Day from all of us at Filmogaz.com!
