International Women’s Day: Being Inspired and Feeling Empowered

“I believe there are so many positive indications of change for this generation of girls”, Cheryl Giovannoni, CEO, Girls’ Day School Trust

At Change Makers we don’t just wish for a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination – we promote, learn and most importantly draw inspiration from women that are striving towards equity, full steam ahead. 

International Women’s Day is a wonderful time to celebrate women as leading lights in our society. Women are making change happen every second of every day, impacting all four corners of the world. With too many guests to celebrate, in too few words, we aim to empower all women through relaying some“positive indications of change” that have been shared through the stories and work of our guests: Charlotte Keenan, Taban Shoresh, Cheryl Giovanonni and Jude Kelly.

The story of entrepreneurs: Charlotte Keenan 

Charlotte Keenan believes in the power of small businesses, and in the power of women. Recognising that when the two are combined together, their impact is formidable, Charlotte has built an incredible platform from which she can globally champion female entrepreneurs. Charlotte is the Global Head of 10,000 Women, the Goldman Sachs initiative that provides women with business and management education, mentoring and networking and access to capital. Believing “the essence of entrepreneurship is taking a risk” Charlotte helps emerging women in business to walk, so that later, they can run. 

“Each small business is a story of the individual”, says Charlotte. Empowering and motivating herself by drawing her inspiration and motivation from female individuality, Charlotte has unwavering positivity that enables her to see the light in these gloomier times for businesses. 

Whilst simultaneously being inspired by women, Charlotte also inspires. Abiding by her own rules, she challenges herself and wants to take risks, setting her sights on her own goals, with the same passion she has for others. Charlotte is tangled in a wonderful cycle, where empowering others, empowers her, leading her to believe she resides in her “best decade yet”. 

Listen to Charlotte’s episode here 

The Story of resilience: Taban Shoresh