Why can women coaches play a role in improving diversity in the boardroom? - The essence of coaching by Banya Barua Ph.D .
opportunities for all, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, or national origin. Following the Civil Rights Act of 1964, affirmative action policies were implemented to address historical underrepresentation of certain groups, initially focusing on race. Over time, the concept of diversity expanded to encompass gender, with the rise of the Feminist Movement and efforts to achieve equal rights. Today Diversity is a broad term evolving to include not only gender and gender Identity; but also race and ethnicity; age and generation; sexual orientation; religious and spiritual beliefs; disability; socioeconomic status
and background. Effective measurement encompasses not just diversity but also inclusion, equity and belonging. With this premise, the status of women and gender diversity in the boardroom is discussed in this article. Madam C.J. Walker (1867–1919), born Sarah Breedlove, was a trailblazing African-American entrepreneur and philanthropist, widely recognized as one of the first female self-made millionaires in the United States. She built her empire through Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower, a breakthrough product that gained immense popularity among African-American women.
Coaching is a transformative process that empowers individuals to tap into their potential, clarify their goals, and pursue success in both personal and professional arenas. Although the foundational principles of coaching apply universally, it's important to acknowledge that a coach's gender —as well as their unique experiences and perspectives—can influence the coaching dynamic and address diverse needs more effectively. Coaching is a key driver of leadership development, offering a tailored and empowering relationship that enables leaders to strengthen their capabilities, deepen self-awareness, and boost their impact. Through this collaborative partnership, coaches support leaders in setting clear goals, navigating obstacles, and applying actionable strategies to foster continuous growth and success. Rifling through history of women in C-Suite positions can be found in the Civil Rights Movement in the US in the mid-20th century was a major catalyst for diversity initiatives, particularly in the workplace. This movement highlighted the need for equal
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