Like many women in Africa, advancing professionally demands overcoming societal norms. That includes gender bias, which, although changes are starting to have an effect, still exists in many businesses across Africa. This is particularly the case when it comes to nominating women for leadership roles.

Growing up, I witnessed this in my community, where women are often expected to take a backseat. However, I was fortunate to come from a family that firmly believed in equal opportunities for both boys and girls. I was always encouraged to express myself and articulate my needs.

Within my professional journey, I have been privileged to work in an environment where I am recognized for my contributions, regardless of my gender. If there was ever a challenge to that, I must admit, it has much more to do with questioning myself due to societal expectations that traditionally undermine women’s roles rather than actual limitations from my colleagues or the leadership at the workplace. Sometimes, the toughest stereotypes are the ones you create for yourself!

The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is #AccelerateAction. What does mean to you? How has the workplace changed for women over the years and what more can be done to support women in leadership roles and achieve gender equality?

To me, #AccelerateAction means actively driving change rather than waiting for it to simply ‘happen’. It is about recognizing existing challenges, taking deliberate steps to remove barriers, and ensuring that progress is sustained.

Over the years, I have witnessed our company evolve to become far more inclusive for women. The fact that women are assuming increased managerial and leadership roles in the fields of HR, Communications, and Aftersales are good examples in this regard. In addition, I observed that there is greater awareness around gender equality, and practical action by making efforts to provide mentorship, career growth and other opportunities.

One great initiative I am happy to be part of, is the Aspire programme, a leadership training and mentorship programme offered by Inchcape, and has been valuable in broadening my perspective and helping me grow as a leader. Programmes like these are essential in empowering women to step into leadership roles with confidence and need to be continued. To me, all of these elements sum up the central IWD tenet of #AccelerateAction, and with initiatives like this, we can carry on driving the surge towards true gender equality in business.

Was there a particular mentor or role model who influenced your career path?

With regard to my current career path, a great deal of credit goes to my manager, Semere Dargie, IT Director at Inchcape Africa. He saw my potential from the outset, and guided me toward my present role where I could excel and make a difference to my company’s growth and development. I found in particular his engaging and supportive leadership approach quite motivating and exemplary.

Wellbeing is a priority for everyone in the modern workplace. Can you share personal advice and strategies on balancing work, personal priorities, while maintaining well-being?

One strategy I found helpful to stay productive while maintaining my personal well-being is to never be afraid to lean on my social support systems, particularly my family, my immediate IT colleagues and managers. I found this helpful during stressful or more challenging instances such as meeting deadlines and venturing into new projects.

What advice would you give to women just starting their careers, especially those aspiring to leadership roles?

First and foremost, my advice to young women is to believe in themselves! Don’t be afraid to continuously challenge traditional gender stereotypes and societal assumptions, no matter how deeply ingrained they may seem.

Naturally, I would also advise them to work hard and expand their skills and competencies through continual personal development. They have to be competent to be given the roles they aspire to assume. But it’s also important to demand their deserved rights. If you’re good enough to be in the position then you have a right to be there, regardless of your gender!

We’d like to thank Hiwot for her words of wisdom and for giving up her valuable time to talk to us. Her thoughts and advice should resonate with everyone, especially women who are determined to overcome social expectations and break through into leadership roles. They represent everything Inchcape stands for – equality based on abilities, a celebration of individuality, and a determination to strive for a better, more integrated working environment for all. We believe that this year’s International Women’s Day’s #AccelerateAction theme truly captures our own commitment to gender equality. Hiwot is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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