As a woman who has dedicated her life to leadership across various sectors—from corporate to non-profit, sports to community advocacy—I’ve come to understand that being successful, especially as a female, often comes with an unintended consequence: it can make you a target. It’s a reality that many women in positions of influence face, and one that I believe is important to address openly.
Over the years, I’ve witnessed first-hand how quickly “success” can invite scrutiny. As we work hard to achieve our goals and make meaningful contributions to our communities, it’s not uncommon to encounter criticism that goes beyond constructive feedback. Unfortunately, this criticism sometimes takes the form of unwarranted attacks or misinformation, especially in the digital age, where rumours can spread like wildfire with a single click.
The Reality of Being in the Public Eye
When you’re in the public eye, people tend to form opinions based on what they hear or read, often without considering the full picture. It can be frustrating to see narratives built around partial truths or outright falsehoods. As a leader, I’ve learned to embrace transparency and remain committed to my values, even in the face of criticism. However, it’s also essential for those observing from the outside to approach what they read with a critical mind.
One lesson I’ve learned is that success, particularly as a woman, can sometimes be viewed through a distorted lens. People may ascribe motives to our actions that are far from the truth, or they may question our capabilities simply because of gender biases that persist in our society. While these biases are slowly breaking down, they still exist, and they can create a challenging environment for women who are determined to lead and make a difference.
The Power of Truth and Reaching Out
I want to emphasise something crucial: don’t believe everything you read. In today’s world, where information is at our fingertips, it’s easy to take what’s on the surface as the whole truth. But remember, there is often more to the story. If you hear something about someone—whether it’s a public figure or a colleague—take a moment to dig deeper. Reach out directly to those involved to clarify the truth before making decisions or forming opinions. This practice not only prevents the spread of misinformation but also promotes a culture of understanding and empathy.
As a community leader, I always encourage open dialogue. If you have questions about my work or my decisions, I welcome those conversations. Engaging directly with one another helps dispel myths and misconceptions, and it’s a step toward building a more informed and cohesive community. We should all work to be more diligent in seeking the truth, especially when it comes to issues or people we may not fully understand.
Moving Forward with Resilience and Empathy
Success should be celebrated, not questioned. For women, achieving success often means overcoming a myriad of challenges—some visible, some invisible. It’s essential to recognise that the path to leadership is rarely straightforward and is often paved with hurdles that test our resolve. Instead of tearing down those who reach these heights, we should support and uplift one another, recognising the unique strengths and perspectives that women bring to leadership roles.
As I continue my journey in leadership, I am committed to maintaining an open and honest dialogue with those I serve. Together, we can build a community where truth and empathy lead the way, where successes are celebrated, and where we all feel supported in our endeavours to make the world a better place.
So, to all the women out there striving to make a difference, remember: your success is well-earned, and you have every right to be proud of it. And to everyone reading this, I urge you to think twice before believing everything you come across.
