Supporting each other and backing yourself is the key to unlocking female leadership, according to Gemma Abela, Manager, Communications and Engagement.
Throughout Gemma’s career, she has been lucky to work with great male and female mentors, who have supported her career development and progression.
“With some leaders I have mirrored their ways of working, and with others I’ve asked them to be my mentor,” she said.
“I believe the best way we can help others, is to share our skills and experience with those who are interested and provide opportunities to support people to take the next development opportunity.”
She also believes the biggest advocate to get you where you want to go, is yourself.
“You hold the keys to your career in your hands. In many instances, you need to find opportunities and drive them yourself – including reaching out to mentors around you,” she said.
“You can learn a lot from speaking to someone, whether it’s about how they got to where they are, what advice they have for you, or how they would work through a work problem you’re facing.”
Gemma said a coffee is all it takes to move towards your career goals.
“If there is someone you’d like to learn from, let them know what you’d like to learn from them and ask them for a coffee,” she said.
This International Women’s Day, we asked Gemma what advice she could give to others in leadership roles.
“If you’re in a leadership position, take a moment today to consider – how are you supporting those around you to grow and learn?”