Empowering Women in Leadership: A Personal Experience

Recently, I had the privilege of participating in the TSSA Women in Leadership (WiL) course. This course was a unique opportunity to reflect on my career, learn from other women, and strengthen my leadership skills. Here’s a snapshot of my experience:

Motivation & Goals

As someone early in my career and aiming for a management role, I was looking for opportunities to develop. Having worked in male-dominated teams throughout my time in the Transport industry, I saw this course as an opportunity to gain tools and insights that would help me navigate leadership challenges.

I hoped to get perspectives from other women in leadership, helping me evaluate whether I’m on the right path. I wanted to ensure that my career was one I would find personally rewarding in the long term. I’m grateful to have found a supportive group of peers who have affirmed my ambitions and become valuable connections on this journey.

Key Learnings

The most valuable part of the course for me was understanding the historical context of women’s leadership. Growing up in rural Northern Ireland, I wasn’t politically aware, and this course broadened my view on women’s progress and the different experiences women face depending on their backgrounds.

Standout Moments

The whole course was insightful. Sarah, our facilitator, made sure to address any questions we had, and the pace of the course was just right for everyone involved. The guest speaker was particularly engaging, offering a mix of personal experience and researched knowledge. Above all, the sense of camaraderie among the group was invaluable. The women I met have become strong, supportive connections, and I hope to maintain these relationships long-term.

Leadership Development: Reflection, Shifting Perspectives, and Application

The course allowed me to reflect on my leadership style. I’ve always aspired to be a strong, fair, and empathetic leader, and I learned that I’m on the right track. A key takeaway was understanding that leaders don’t need to be technical experts but should inspire and support others to succeed.

The course also helped me better understand the difference between management and leadership. While you don’t have to be in a management role to be a leader, the course emphasised that managers should strive to be a leader.

While I haven’t yet had the chance to directly apply everything I learned, this course contributed to my Level 7 in Leadership and Management qualification.

The Importance of Women’s Spaces in Male-Dominated Sectors

This course highlighted the importance of spaces like these for women, especially in male-dominated industries. Women have historically been told to “know your place,” but those times are changing. Courses like this create opportunities for women to share experiences, learn, and support each other as we redefine our roles in the workplace.

Why apply? Benefits and Future Impact

To any women considering applying for future leadership courses: Do it! You’ll meet incredible people. It’s a chance to grow and also contribute to others’ growth by sharing your own experiences.

The course also helped shape my views on feminism and leadership. I now feel empowered to advocate for true equality, not superiority. This course has inspired me to continue pursuing leadership roles while challenging outdated perceptions and advocating for gender equality.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Women in Leadership course has been an invaluable experience.