GUEST COLUMN
When a young woman sees someone who looks like her leading with confidence, not because she had all the answers but because she believed in her worth, it opens a door in her mind. It shows her what’s possible. That’s why we need to show up. Not perfectly, but authentically. Bridging the confidence gap isn’t about individual women trying harder, it’s about rethinking how we define leadership. It’s about mentors who make space, institutions that challenge bias and cultures that reward collaboration over ego. It’s also about community. Confidence grows when we’re seen, supported and encouraged, especially by people who understand our journey. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t belong, I want you to know that you do, that you’re
issues are about you, they are about the system. And yet, so many of us internalise the blame. We think we’re not enough, while at the same time over-preparing, over-working and over-apologising. Simply put, it’s exhausting and we need to shift this narrative. You are not the imposter; the conditions making you feel that way are. REPRESENTATION IS ABOUT MORE THAN VISIBILITY We hear a lot about representation and yes, it matters. But representation isn’t about putting a woman on a panel or a person of colour in a brochure; it’s about changing the culture so that different leadership styles, backgrounds and voices are valued, rather than just being tolerated.
not alone and that your voice matters. So, speak up, raise your hand and take the stage; not because you’re fearless but because your story is power. And when you use it, you create space for others to do the same.
Sheena Yap Chan is a keynote speaker,
podcaster and consultant dedicated to empowering all women, with a focus on leadership and confidence. She is also the author of The Tao of Self‑Confidence and Bridging the Confidence Gap , published by Wiley
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Business Impact • ISSUE 3 • 2025
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