As we approach International Women’s Day, a powerful message from the UN echoes: ‘Count Her in and Invest in Her to Accelerate Progress’. This theme embodies the spirit of collective advancement, reminding us that individual success is often intertwined with the progress of the community, writes Jessica Miles, country manager of adtech firm Integral Ad Science (pictured).

This year, as we celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness about equality, let’s explore how true leaders can embrace this mantra, making their ascent not a solitary journey but one that uplifts others along the way. In this article, I’d like to share insights and my personal experience on “Lift while you Climb” for a diverse and inclusive world.

Beyond Individual Success: The Interconnectedness of Women’s Progress

My journey in the media industry vividly illustrates the ‘Lift While You Climb’ ethos. Starting as a newcomer in a largely male-dominated team, I encountered numerous challenges in an environment saturated with testosterone, making it hard to find my footing and motivation. In response, my incredibly supportive manager made a defining move that significantly influenced my career path: he connected me with a female mentor. This mentor, a seasoned professional from outside our company with a deep-rooted history in the media field, emerged as a guiding light and pillar of support for me.

This mentorship started over a decade ago and has blossomed into a lasting relationship. She has transitioned from an informal mentor to my business coach, guiding me as she built her own company and established herself in brand building and business coaching. This evolution of our mentor-mentee relationship into a professional coaching dynamic underscores the lasting impact of thoughtful leadership.

Embracing the ethos of inclusivity and support extended to me, I have endeavoured to provide the same opportunities to my team, irrespective of gender. Mentorship and coaching are ancillary benefits and foundational elements of a nurturing work environment. They are instrumental in fostering growth, confidence, and community among team members.

As leaders, our investment in the team is not merely a professional obligation but a profound commitment to collective progress. In the words of Sheryl Sandberg, “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” This principle has guided my actions and intentions, ensuring I extend a hand to those journeying with me as I ascend, fostering mutual growth and inclusion.

Success narratives often focus on individual figures too long, creating an illusion of singular achievement. However, the reality is far more nuanced. The path to success for women, especially those navigating systemic barriers, is rarely paved alone. It is often a collective effort built on the support and inspiration from mentors, peers, and communities. Recognising this interconnectedness is crucial, for it compels us to shift our focus beyond individual victory towards championing collective progress.

Steps Leaders Can Take to “Lift While They Climb”

So, how can leaders, especially women in positions of power, embody the “lift while you climb” philosophy and genuinely make a difference? Here are some key steps:

1. Mentorship and Sponsorship: Offer your time and guidance to women at various stages of their careers. Mentorship provides a space for knowledge transfer and emotional support, while sponsorship actively advocates for the advancement of others by championing promotions, opportunities, and recognition.

2. Advocate for Systemic Change: Acknowledge and challenge the barriers and biases hindering women’s advancement. Use your voice to advocate for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities, fair pay, and a culture of inclusion.

3. Empowering Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment in your team or organisation. Encourage knowledge sharing, open communication, and the building of strong networks. This cooperative spirit fosters a sense of shared success and allows women to learn from and support each other.

4. Building a “We” Culture: Move away from focusing on individual achievements and cultivate a culture of “we.” Acknowledge the contributions of your team members and celebrate successes as a collective effort. This fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the overall community.

5. Amplify the Voices of Others: Use your platform to amplify women’s voices around you. Give credit where it’s due, showcase diverse perspectives, and ensure that women across different backgrounds and experiences are heard and valued.

Several inspiring Australian women leaders have exemplified the “lift while you climb” philosophy, such as Quentin Bryce and Rosie O’Halloran, among others.

Quentin Bryce’s contribution to advancing human rights and equality, the rights of women and children, and the welfare of the family was recognised in her appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1988 and a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2003. Also, in 2003, she was invested as a Dame of Grace of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem. On 25 March 2014, Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced that Ms Bryce had become a Dame in the Order of Australia. Ms Bryce is a role model and mentor to women at every stage of their lives. She values and encourages women’s capacity to form strong and enduring bonds of friendship, intellectual and emotional enrichment, and mutual support in their roles within the family, workplace and community.

Rosie O’Halloran is an influential and inspiring young changemaker. At 23, Rosie founded a non-profit organisation based in Uganda, foundations (au), which empowers children to be champions for positive change in their communities. Her organisation started a children’s home in 2010 and has worked with the local government to develop and deliver primary school health and education programs, winning many recognitions along her journey.

These women and countless others demonstrate collective action’s transformative power. Their journeys illustrate that lifting others strengthens the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future.

The Benefits of Collective Progress

When women lift each other, the benefits extend beyond individual triumphs. It fosters a culture of inclusion, innovation, and collective success. More women in leadership positions can lead to diverse perspectives and better organisational decision-making and problem-solving. Moreover, when women are empowered economically and socially, it fuels economic growth and societal well-being, creating a ripple effect that benefits the community.

On International Women’s Day and beyond, let us rise together. Let us embrace the “lift while you climb” philosophy. Let us celebrate individual achievements while acknowledging the interconnectedness of our journeys. By lifting each other, we can create a world where all women can reach their full potential and contribute to a stronger, more equitable, and thriving future for all.

Remember, you have the power to be a catalyst for change. Embrace your role as a leader, champion collective progress, and inspire others to do the same. Let us collectively write a new narrative, one where women not only climb the ladder of success but also reach out and help others reach their full potential – together.