International Women’s Day has always been one of those occasions that make me pause for a small moment and reflect on the journey women take in their careers and in life in general.
When I look back at my own path in finance, I remember many conferences and meetings where I was the only woman in the room. At the time, I didn’t think much about it — I was simply focused on doing my work and moving forward. But over the years, I started to realise that this experience was not unique: many talented women were facing the same reality.
That realisation was what eventually led to the creation of Women Leading the Way.
From the very beginning, I imagined this project as something more than a publication or a platform. I wanted it to become a space where women could share their stories openly — not only their successes, but also the challenges that shaped them. A place where professionals could inspire each other, support each other, and feel that they are part of something larger. Of a community that understands.
It was touching to see how strong a response this initiative yielded, and how many women have written to us saying that the stories gave them confidence to move forward in their careers.
For me, this project is also deeply personal because I am a mother. And as my daughter grows up, I want her to grow up in a world that won’t try to limit what she can be. Every generation of women opens new doors for the next one, and I, too, have my role to play in this.
Projects like Women Leading the Way exist for exactly that reason — to help make women’s achievements visible. To create role models. And to remind us that support and community matter.
There is still plenty of work to do. Many industries out there are only beginning to see a more balanced representation, with finance and fintech being just one example. But I believe that with every story, every conversation, and every woman encouraged to push forward, we move that much closer to building a world of fairer opportunities.
On this International Women’s Day, I want to wish every woman the confidence to follow her own path and the courage to speak up. Your stories matter more than you might think!
With warmth,
Valentina & Drofa Comms
