tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33384908804729421112024-03-06T00:40:07.642-05:00Women on TopYes, we need more women in top leadership positions! The best way to get there is by advancing the power of young women and girls. The goal in writing this blog is to highlight the significant yet often undervalued contribution young women and girls have in improving society. Guest bloggers are always welcome! Thanks for reading and please help spread the word about the power of young women and girls! *Thoughts are my own.*Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-89804350621547424342018-04-17T18:35:00.002-04:002018-04-18T01:01:03.030-04:0030 Main Lessons I Learned Before My Thirties<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 30th Birthday Celebration in San Francisco</td></tr>
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Below are lessons I learned predominantly in my twenties. They are mistakes I made, and obstacles I overcame. They are things that I am proud that I did. Many of them, I wish I had done earlier on in life. Many of them, I am still working on.<br />
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The first op-ed I ever published was "<a href="http://www.dailycal.org/2013/04/19/advice-for-the-young-women-of-uc-berkeley/">Advice for the Young Women of UC Berkeley</a>." Similarly, I wrote this list below, and included links to other blog posts I've written on these topics. My sister is about ten years younger than me, and I dedicate this list to her and other young women and girls. These are my wishes for them as they experience the highs and lows of your twenties.</div>
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<li>Learn how to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/love-yo-self-pamela-o-leary/">love yourself</a>.</li>
<li>Your job title is not your identity.</li>
<li>Your romantic status is not your identity or happiness.</li>
<li>Take the <a href="http://www.landmarkworldwide.com/the-landmark-forum?gclid=Cj0KCQjwttbWBRDyARIsAN8zhbK86UsYJp3Z43p6gz_Tmx2R9_n1LgagJUeCmvYhsupn-pIwLNlPmBMaAkUGEALw_wcB">Landmark Forum</a> and complete the Curriculum for Living. Learn how to be responsible for your words and actions, and moreover use this power to create new possibilities for your life.</li>
<li>Get a therapist.</li>
<li>Define what happiness and success means to you in terms of romance, sex, health, wealth, career, etc.</li>
<li><a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/">Fail, fail, fail</a>, and then take the risk again.</li>
<li><a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/how-do-you-decide.html">Identify </a>your personal and professional strengths and weaknesses.</li>
<li>Embrace being alone, and <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2015/05/solo-travel-just-do-it.html">travel abroad alone</a>.</li>
<li><a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2014/01/so-you-want-to-join-nonprofit-board.html">Take on leadership opportunities</a> and stretch assignments. Volunteer and <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/">gain new skills</a>.</li>
<li><a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2014/04/an-ode-to-my-mentor-arnie-thomas.html">Work with a coach</a>. Develop relationships with mentors.</li>
<li>Give back to others, especially girls and other young women.</li>
<li>Identify your coping mechanisms, both good and bad. Develop regular habits for <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/master-self-care-femfuture.html">self-care</a>.</li>
<li>Forgive yourself.</li>
<li><a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/ten-years-ago-today-i-realized-my.html">Identify your dreams</a> and make progress towards them.</li>
<li>Go to <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2016/09/i-didnt-go-to-burning-man-to-party.html">Burning Man</a>, or your personal form of it.</li>
<li>Solidify your spiritual practices, which probably means exploring new ones you weren't raised with. Or, if you choose not to have a spiritual practice, firmly own that decision.</li>
<li>Apply to tons of jobs/graduate schools/programs/awards/etc. and develop resiliency to rejection and an appetite for risk.</li>
<li>Develop healthy exercise routines, and learn how to cook healthy.</li>
<li>Save enough money in case you lose your job, or have to move quickly.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.dailycal.org/2013/04/19/advice-for-the-young-women-of-uc-berkeley/">Love</a>, and at this age, it's totally okay to get your heart absolutely broken. It's the best way to know you're alive.</li>
<li>Develop habits for personal organization such as a clean room and time management.</li>
<li>Have lists of what you want by the age of 30, but be flexible and kind enough to yourself if these all don't come true by then.</li>
<li>Live in different places.</li>
<li>Learn how to meditate.</li>
<li>Buy a one way <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2016/08/american-identity-abroad.html">international flight </a>less than a week before departing for a solo trip. Or, make a quick decision to finally make one of your dreams really come true with definitive action.</li>
<li>Constantly seek out professional development opportunities and <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2017/06/proud-product-of-womens-communities.html">training programs</a>.</li>
<li>Develop a <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-is-your-community.html">personal support community</a> and a <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/women-opening-doors-for-women.html">professional network</a>.</li>
<li>Develop a personal brand and share your voice.</li>
<li>Carpe diem and enjoy your life! <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2014/01/ten-ways-college-women-can-in.html">Your twenties are for learning</a>, growing, being irresponsible, and making mistakes!</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-56833360883058836302018-01-31T15:12:00.002-05:002018-01-31T15:16:38.496-05:00An American Feminist Listening to Rwandan Feminists<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">fter traveling over 36 hours, I quickly checked into my hotel and showered. I then ran off to a women's empowerment panel at a cute cafe on top of the Kigali Public Library, overlooking the beautiful hills of Rwanda. For my entire professional career, most of my weeknights are spending organizing and attending similar panel events about women's leadership. It was such a cool opportunity for me to start my vacation doing something so familiar to me. I was so eager to listen to what the women had to share, and very curious to hear if the narrative of feminism they shared was similar to that in the United States. Overall, it felt the same, and I learned so much from this rare opportunity. I left feeling empowered and connected!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I came with an open mind, trying hard to remove whatever biases I may hold and to listen with no expectations. I was the only visibly White person in the entire room, which consisted predominantly of young Rwandan women and a few men. I very much recognize the tremendous privileges I had as a White American woman who had the financial means to travel so far. I assume many of the other women in the audience were young professionals. I wondered what topics would be discussed. Were the challenges these young professional women were experiencing any different from those myself and my peers in the States were experiencing?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The narrative of feminism they used sounded just like the one I hear back home. Many of the panelists and audience members explicitly used terms such as feminist, patriarchy, and reclaiming. The main themes were owning your power and building a sisterhood to support other women and girls as we each individually grow in our leadership. Topics shared included confidence, body image, female relationships, marriage, abortion, and sexual harassment. Many of the comments included an intersectional approach, inclusive of various sexual orientations and socioeconomic statuses. Many also recognized their urban and professional privilege and expressed a desire to support the advancement of rural women and girls in villages. Not to my surprise, I did not explicitly hear the phrase "women of color," which of course makes sense given the context of Rwanda. While in the States, in many feminist conversations, women of color, race, and ethnicity are increasingly being mentioned, I didn't notice this in the comments at the event. Overall, the stories shared by the panelists and the audience members deeply resonated with me as I too struggle not only to empower women everywhere, but also myself. Check out #GirlTalkinRwanda and #GirlsTalkinRwanda to learn more about what was discussed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Rwanda is the #1 country in the world in terms of having the highest percentage of female Parliamentarians. I was very curious to hear how or if this would come up during a women's empowerment event. It was mentioned a few times and mainly with frustration. Those who shared explained that they wanted their female Parliamentarians to do more for women and girls. It also seemed that these Parliamentarians were much older than the women at the event. I hope more young women run for office in Rwanda soon!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Attending this event affirmed my hope that women all over the world are finally stepping into their power to change the world for the betterment of everyone. At this very moment, women and girls in most countries have more rights than they have ever had before. Of course, and especially now in my country, we must defend those rights daily, for they can be taken from us at any moment. However, I will continue to believe that empowering women leaders and those from other underrepresented communities is the best way to change the world.</span><br />
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Thank you to <a href="http://iaccelerator.rw/girldistrict.html" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background: 0px 0px transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #827be9; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Girl District</a> and <a href="http://www.innovationvillage.co/" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background: 0px 0px transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #827be9; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Innovation Village</a> for hosting this amazing event! Special thanks to the truly inspirational panelists, Judicaelle Irakoze, Founder and Director of Choose Yourself and Abigaelle Closet; Tricia Twasiima, Ugandan Feminist Lawyer; Aline Kabanda, Country Director, Akilah Institute; and Julian Ingabire Kayibanda, Country Director at International Child Resource Institute.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-23704567547489831622017-06-04T19:38:00.002-04:002017-07-31T19:46:33.656-04:00Proud Product of Women's Communities<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Emerge California, Class of 2015</span></h3>
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The best way to change the world is to empower women leaders, and those from other underrepresented communities. As the American suffragist Alice Paul declared almost a hundred years ago, "There will never be a new world order until women are a part of it.” My personal definition of feminism is creating an equal world, free of all forms of discrimination and oppression such as sexism, genderism, racism, heterosexism, ableism, ageism, etc. My vocation is this feminism.<br />
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The best way to empower women leaders is to give them a supportive community to grow in. While the path to empowerment is an individual process, one person can only take themselves so far in his or her growth. Being in a community, where everyone shares their stories of overcoming struggles and supports each other in such growth is imperative to personal transformation. A person needs to know they are not alone in their challenges. They need to see others who have made it to inspire them to become the greater self they seek to be. This is especially necessary for women and those from underrepresented communities who look up the career ladder and don't see many leaders that look like them.<br />
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I have dedicated my career to building inclusive communities, predominantly for women. Moreover, as I have grown in my career doing such, I have and continue to have great challenges growing as a female leader myself. I truly hope to write a book someday soon about this epic journey! I am eternally indebted to the countless women who have supported me along my leadership path. I literally could not have done it alone. As an alumna of these various groups, my community continues to give back and support me.<br />
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As a cisgender woman, I have personally found it incredibly valuable to be a part of communities just for women. While I strongly believe in inclusiveness and inviting men and people of all genders into feminist conversations, a unique safe space is established in women only spaces. When people from underrepresented communities are together with each other, they can feel safe to be vulnerable and share their experiences of discrimination. A special bond is created that produces deep, meaningful relationships through this shared identity. While co-ed groups must also exist, single sex environments have special benefits for empowerment.<br />
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Below are the various women's communities I have been a part of, many of which I have be privileged to help build. In the future, I hope to write my PhD dissertation examining the best practices to create such sustainable communities.<br />
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I encourage you to click on the links below for the various groups I have been a part of. While I have been and continue to be a part of many organizations, these are the ones that have been the most meaningful to me. I challenge you to seek out similar communities for yourself, or even to build new ones that do not yet exist.<br />
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As Madeline Albright often shares, "There is a special place in hell for women who don't help other women." I spend every day of my life making sure I don't end up there!<br />
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<b>Training Programs</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.womenspolicy.org/our-work/congressional-fellows/">Congressional Fellowships on Women and Public Policy (formerly WREI)</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.emergeca.org/">Emerge California</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.american.edu/spa/wpi/welead.cfm">We Lead program, American University</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.leadingwomenintechnology.org/programs/wilpower/wilpower-2017">WILpower program, Leading Women in Technology</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.womensmediacenter.com/pages/progressive-womens-voices">Progressive Women's Voices</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.femfuture.com/">FemFuture</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ploughshares.org/issues-analysis/article/women-and-war-todays-world">The White House Project & Ploughshares Fund Women in Nuclear Security program</a><br />
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<b>Professional Women's Organizations</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en/about-us/diversity-and-inclusion/employee-resource-groups">Ericsson Women in Leadership (WIL) group</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.womengetitdone.com/">Women Get It Done</a><br />
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<a href="http://wearewatermark.org/">Watermark</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.wgr.org/">Women in Government Relations</a><br />
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<b>Nonprofits & Higher Education</b><br />
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<a href="https://orgsync.com/44951/chapter">Women in Management (WIM) groups at Stanford GS</a>B<br />
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<a href="http://winonline.org/">Women's Information Network</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.alphaomicronpi.org/">Alpha Omicron Pi (AOII)</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.aauw.org/">American Association of University Women (AAUW)</a><br />
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<a href="http://upwardwomen.org/">UPWARD</a><br />
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<a href="http://runningstartonline.org/about-us">Running Start</a><br />
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<a href="https://plen.org/">Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN)</a><br />
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<a href="http://nationalwomansparty.org/">Sewall-Belmont House & Museum</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-82297875958693381892016-09-10T08:56:00.002-04:002017-07-31T19:48:19.467-04:00I Didn't Go to Burning Man to Party!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I didn't go to the Playa to party. I didn't do drugs. I didn't have sex. Sure, I drank alcohol, but I didn't get drunk. A hangover in the pounding heat of the desert would have been terrible! While I wholeheartedly support everyone's choice to experience Burning Man however they want, I choose to have a less traditional experience. Literally, my Playa name is Sober. But overall, I still got a natural high from the Burning Man experience!<br /><br />I went to the Playa to challenge myself, and be a part of a one of a kind, powerful community. Literally, for only one week a year, there is no place on the entire earth like Burning Man. Together, 70,000 souls create a city just to destroy it, but with the intent to rebuild next year. But I really want everyone to know you don't have to do drugs or participate in sexual activities to have a transformative experience. This can still be a fun place if you are not into those things! <br /><br />I'm a super nerd. When you arrive on the Playa, you're given a book with the schedules of a variety of activities you can participate in. I immediately dive into the book, circling the myriad of exciting options. I went to a workshop on how to be an ally to the deaf community. I learned negotiation tips for women. I volunteered with my camp as we facilitated clay making workshops and ran a bar specializing in Scotch and Hop. I wrote the names of those who had passed in the last year on the Temple. I got matched with my soulmate in a camp designed like Costco! I watched an off Broadway quality theatrical performance, and listened to inspiring live music. I explored art exhibits, placed in the awesome background of the desert. I accepted beautiful random acts of kindness from strangers, whether that was a hug, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a handmade pendant. I cheered with crowds as the Man burned. But I also sat in silence with tens of thousands of people as glowing ash hovered above us as the temple burned.<br /><br />Deprive yourself of running water and electricity for a week, and you'll learn to deeply appreciate them. Gather all of the trash you accumulate in one week in one place, and you'll be more aware of your consumption habits. Participate in a camp where your survival is dependent upon shared responsibilities, and you'll understand what it means to be an active citizen of a community.<br /><br />After waking up at 4:30am in a dark 40 degrees to quickly pack your tent to rush in the Exodus line to leave the Playa, I ended up being forced to wait about six hours in the orchestrated pulsed lines. The Playa constantly provides ample opportunities to cultivate patience! In the final pulse before we finally departed the Playa, everyone exited their cars to mingle and soak in our last moments together. People gave out popsicles and shared snacks. Others invited fellow travelers to draw on their car. We were eager to hit the road, but with the bittersweet irony of leaving our home. <br /><br />On the one way road out of Burning Man, people returned to their normal default world ways, and passed slower vehicles. You drive by multiple small businesses to collect your trash or get hot food. You slowly reintegrate into society. My sincere belief is that we all reenter the world as changed individuals, bringing a new powerful perspective for good.<br /><br />Having gone twice now, I hope to return to the Playa again next year. Thank you to the Man for sacrificing yourself each year. I get it now. He has to burn so we have a reason to recreate it all again next year. We must start from nothing.<br /><br />Going through significant personal and professional transitions over the past few years, I'm reinvigorated by the Burn. The only way to start again is to completely let it all go to create from scratch. This is also a concept of the female protagonist Daenerys in Game of Thrones. Oh, and I think it is a strong theme regarding Jesus and Christianity. From nothing, who I am is the possibility of possibility. Thank you Burning Man!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-54110936581779260992016-08-25T18:05:00.001-04:002016-08-25T18:05:44.328-04:00American Identity Abroad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What does it mean to be an American, meaning one from the United States
of America? I asked myself after choosing to visit Turkey a month after
the recent military coup, despite significant discouragement from
American friends and family. Does being an American mean to look White
and speak English? Absolutely not, but that's what many from other
countries often automatically depict as an American. As one who fits
that stereotype, I try my best to recognize the multiple privileges that
gives me.<br /> <br /> Being an American generally means one is free from
the fears of living in an unstable democracy where terrorist attacks
happen frequently or the democratically elected government can be
threatened by a military coup. While our political parties may be
extremely polarized, these do not result in violence between the
parties. When regime changes occur, they are peaceful transitions of
power. Americans live in a safety and stability unrivaled by other
countries, but at the same time, we normalize mass shootings.<br /> <br />
Being an American means you have virtually unlimited access to any
consumer product you want, including clothing and electronic items that
cost many times more if you buy them outside the States. But being an
American can also mean you live in a workaholic culture, with limited
vacation time and a societal expectation to keep advancing in one's
career and economic status. However, with this can come with a pride in
one's work as well as a great exchange rate when traveling abroad.
Americans may be more comfortable with massive amounts of personal debt
rather than higher taxes.<br /> <br /> Some Americans are afraid to visit
other countries, but in essence, being an American can mean playing the
game in easy mode. We are warranted extraordinary privileges that many
citizens of other countries don't experience. At the same time, many
Americans traveling abroad will identify as Canadians, to deflect the
hatred often associated with our country. When asked where I'm from, I
proudly say California. It does not deny my identity as an American, but
brands me with what I believe is the best state in our Union, largely
responsible for the cultural, political, economic, and technological
advancement of our nation.<br /> <br /> The United States is my homeland,
the nation I choose to live in and hopefully raise children in someday.
I am beyond grateful to have been born and raised in the United States.
Above all, I love my country because the American Dream, meaning the
ability to actualize one's goals and aspirations, regardless of what
socioeconomic status you start at, is more feasible than any other
country. All human beings, regardless of where they are born or live,
deserve such human rights.<br /> <br /> Of course, this American Dream is
much more difficult for some communities than others. A truly level
playing field does not yet exist, and multiple forms of discrimination
exist based on race, class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, level
of ability, etc. I want to keep improving my country by encouraging the
advancement of leaders from underrepresented communities in all sectors
of society. Diversity leads to prosperity. I want my country to be a
better ally rather than a dominant bully in how it treats other
countries. While I often intentionally and unintentionally perform the
stereotype of a loud, proud, overly friendly American, I also want to be
the citizen of a nation that has a better reputation globally.<br /> <br />
Empires don't last forever, but what does last is the historic legacy
of supremacy and domination. For example, even today, in some places,
mothers threaten their children to behave by using racist phrases such
as "I'll feed you to the Turks!" If the US loses its current role as
superpower, what will others negatively say about us in the future?
What could it mean to be an extremely wealthy and democratized nation
that is appreciated, well-liked, and respected by other countries?<br /> <br />
I'm very interested in learning how you articulate what it means to be a
human from your country or national identity. Please share your ideas.
Thank you!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-47228009554230809712016-05-06T06:57:00.001-04:002017-07-12T10:59:50.387-04:00Ambition Addict<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My ambition literally keeps me up at night! Sometimes, it eats me alive. However, I think that overall it's a good thing. To date, it's led me to get many feathers in my cap. But, I need to learn how to better temper it. I want to better know how to still be ambitious, but also be present and grateful for what I currently have. For instance, I want to be happy where I am, rather than just constantly looking for the next thing. I guess I need to be more patient and grateful! <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think I was predominately born this way. My parents nurtured it, but more often they encouraged me to not go too hard on myself. That was something I was never good at and am only now getting better at. In high school, one year I took seven AP courses. Ultimately, I was so determined, I convinced my parents to let me do what I wanted. Generally, once I'm fully committed to something, no one or no thing gets in my way! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Perhaps my current levels of ambition may be too much, bordering on the level of unhealthy. Gender is also a strong factor in this. Society expects, but makes it difficult for women to simultaneously fulfill many roles. It also puts many barriers in our way. For example, if women want to advance in male dominated spaces, we must conform to traditional, masculine leadership styles. But at the same time, we are expected to be feminine. It's complicated! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Meditation and mindfulness is all the buzz. I'm sure I could do more of this, but that's still not a silver bullet. One must develop a plethora of intersecting, regular healthy habits to tame the wild beast of one's ambition. I'm working on it! Regular exercise definitiely helps! I try to get enough water and eat healthy. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So overall, how is ambition constructive or destructive for you? How have you effectively managed it? How do gender or other socioeconomic factors impact this for you? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Cheers to going after your dreams in productive ways! </div>
<div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-67869361822738595912016-02-18T01:04:00.001-05:002017-07-12T11:02:07.968-04:00What Does Diversity Mean to You?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Diversity is a buzzword nowadays, especially in Silicon Valley. Fortunately, many are starting to really wake up to its importance, but are still confused about what it is or how to improve it. I thought I'd ask myself, "What does diversity mean to me?"<br />
<br />
Diversity is beautiful. Diversity is challenging. Ultimately, I think it means that while we are all a part of the same human species, we experience life differently due to a variety of and often combination of factors. Those differences provide each of us with distinct advantages and disadvantages. These in part give each of us unique perspectives on what it means to be human. Often those unique perspectives, especially when coming from a disempowered position, are frequently ignored or devalued, which becomes problematic. For example, growing up as a female comes with a variety of societal expectations that girls should be quiet, polite, and humble. Consequently, women are socialized against exerting traditionally defined masculine leadership norms such as self-promotion or assertive negotiation. As a result, we see that men dominate the top leadership positions in most sectors of society. <br />
<br />
When reflecting upon how to define diversity, a relevant question then becomes how does one self-identify in terms of diversity? I identify as a heterosexual, White, Catholic, middle-class, highly educated, able bodied, native English speaker, Irish-American, young professional, single, cisgender female Democrat. Those are all heavily loaded terms. Some of those categories give me great privileges, and depending on the context, others do not grant me such privileges.<br />
<br />
While I claim to be aware of my privileges and actively seek to be an ally to others who are different from me, I am not perfect. Sometimes I say or do things are not entirely inclusive, and I'm most grateful when others help me see that. I am constantly learning and growing in what in means to be an ally.<br />
<br />
What does diversity mean to you? I would love to hear your comments please! Thank you!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-67850401730474221242016-01-25T00:38:00.001-05:002016-01-25T14:37:08.318-05:00Youngest at the Table<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
For
better or worse, I frequently find myself the youngest at the table – whether that
be the board room, the dais, the faculty club, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being an ambitious young professional can
definitely be advantageous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately,
I have personally experienced that many of those in positions of power want to
include the voices and perspectives of those from younger generations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do believe many are genuinely trying to
include diverse voices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My best advice
for getting there is to fake it till you make it!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Go for it!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, it’s most definitely intimidating
to be the youngest person in the room. Sure, it may seem like a stretch to
think you’re qualified or may actually get the position, that it’s not too far
of a reach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, the only guaranteed
way you will not get the opportunity is if you don’t even try. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just apply! Just try! Of course it may not
work out, but you never know unless you put yourself out there. </div>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dress and act the part</b><br />
<br />
I am petite and look very young for
my age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/your-professional-name-vs-childhood.html">previous blog post</a>, I wrote
about how I go by “Pamela,” even though I don’t really like it, and much rather
prefer to go by my nickname “Pammy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sadly, first impressions really do matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make a sincere effort to dress up and to
look and act very professional. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do your homework</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Make sure you are prepared! Take
the time to do significant research and know what you are getting into.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk to others and listen to their
opinions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be open to feedback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reality is that people may be especially judging you if you are younger, so you need to show them you know your stuff!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Own it</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a younger person, you do have a unique
perspective that’s needed. Recognize the value you can add. Don’t be afraid to shamelessly promote that and even
explicitly state that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, you
can share, “As a millennial, I add a unique perspective to the upcoming
demographic shifts…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Act as a peer</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You
always need to be actively networking, not just with your peers, but with those
who are perhaps a level or two above you, and where you want to be going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, I wanted to join the board of a
nonprofit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quite honestly, they had a
cool program for young professionals that I very much could have participated
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I choose not to apply to it, but to
rather position myself at a higher level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Consequently, the board members and staff looked at me more as an
equal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I finally made it to the
board, sometimes my fellow board members would send me invitations to expensive
fundraisers that by no means could I afford to attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I laughed when I got the invites!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it meant they saw me as a peer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Similarly, I would think of ways to engage
them and their interests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to
think of opportunities they would be interested in and shared those.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Accept the risk</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’d be
remiss if I didn’t share that it is much harder to take on big positions
earlier on in your career.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may get something
and just not entirely be ready for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There may be a very steep learning curve. But regardless, I do think it is absolutely worth it to take a great opportunity. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if you fall hard, it means you learned
that much more earlier on in your career. You'll be that much more experienced and stronger for the next thing. <br />
<br />
Have you been the youngest at the table? How did you get there? How did you make it work? Please share your comments below! </div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-74939064089233417362015-12-04T06:58:00.005-05:002015-12-04T07:17:18.087-05:00Declaration of Sentiments 2.0<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="article-body" dir="ltr" itemprop="articleBody">
This holiday season, my Christmas wish is to live in a world where
true gender equality is the reality. The feminist movement needs a new
Declaration of Sentiments.<br />
<br />
Whereas after multiple waves of the feminist movement and although
women now out earn their male peers in terms of bachelors and advanced
degrees, on average, women in the Unites States still only earn 79 cents
for every dollar earned by men, with higher discrepancies for women of
color; still only represent 20 percent of Members of Congress; and are
only 4 percent of CEO positions at S&P 500 companies.<br />
<br />
Whereas there are clear societal benefits to women’s empowerment,
women’s leadership in companies yields higher profits and female
legislators introduce more legislation related to education and
healthcare, with evident social benefits for all. <br />
<br />
Resolved,
that the patriarchal defined norms of leadership have failed society and
more feminine leadership styles need to be adequately valued.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all women deserve equal pay for equal work, including the
legal tools they need to challenge the wage gap itself.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all parents deserve paid maternity and paternity leave.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all working people deserve paid sick leave to provide adequate care for loved ones and for our aging society.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all women, including college students and women in the
military, deserve the right to be free from sexual violence.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that the LGBTQ community deserves universal protection against discrimination, beyond just marriage equality. <br />
<br />
Resolved, that despite decades of the creation and enforcement of
anti-discrimination laws and policies, a culture of unconscious bias
persists which must be abolished once and for all.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that the women of the United States deserve the constitutional protection of an Equal Rights Amendment (ERA).<br />
<br />
Resolved, that a girl deserves to grow up in a world where she sees positive female role models in all professions.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all human beings deserve to live free from the shackles of human trafficking.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that especially when the United States has one of the
highest maternal mortality rates of the industrialized world, all women
deserve to have guaranteed access to healthcare and to control their
reproductive choices.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that all people, regardless of gender identity, sex, sexual
orientation, race, class, ethnicity, ability, religion, marital status,
or age, deserve to have equal opportunity to pursue their dreams and
contribute to society by choosing their own paths.<br />
<br />
Resolved, that society should value women for their unique potential
to lead in ways society has yet to be enhanced by this new feminist
revolution.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-34338053041535136072015-09-16T16:17:00.003-04:002017-07-12T11:06:08.426-04:00Burning Man - An Ideal Community?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvAEVJczfxZYiMGVJxGxxEnL4A5sHSpD61I2Q1KiefR18sT3MTm4XtDJZiHVhYz4OjXY98RMwL709n4nFYwd0QWtnTFc7dYzFwswCyc13QKfflgghs_f8hP4ElqPzrnZ64jlZ4MXb1EY/s640/blogger-image--2057927346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvAEVJczfxZYiMGVJxGxxEnL4A5sHSpD61I2Q1KiefR18sT3MTm4XtDJZiHVhYz4OjXY98RMwL709n4nFYwd0QWtnTFc7dYzFwswCyc13QKfflgghs_f8hP4ElqPzrnZ64jlZ4MXb1EY/s320/blogger-image--2057927346.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I was extremely privileged to have participated in my first Burn in 2015. I found a ticket, camp, and vehicle pass one week before the event began. Ultimately, it was a deeply transformative experience in living in one of the most rare communities on the planet.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Is Burning Man the ideal model for what human communities should look like or could be? My professional background is in building community via nonprofits and the classroom. I also have a strong background in federal and local government and politics. I have no clear answer to the question, but seek to explore some perspectives here. Overall, I believe that although Burning Man has its challenges, it is a beautiful social experiment that society can learn much from.</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Privilege limits scalability </i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To enter the community of Burning Man, one has to pay at the bare minimum the ticket fee which starts at $390. In essence, one could say that this is dues to join an elite club. A limited number of low income tickets exist, which is great. However, one still needs to be able to take time off and be able to get to the Burn.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Moreover, one needs to bring enough supplies for food, water, and shelter for the duration of one's stay. One can bypass this by staying with a camp and sharing resources. However, being admitted to join a camp is often based on informal social networks and sometimes involves interviews. In short, one has to be strongly connected to become a part of a camp community, and not just rough it on your own in the desert. </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once you make it into the Burn, everything is free and you can only use American dollars to purchase coffee or ice. Everything is gifted to you including meals, spa services, clothes, emergency health care, classes, etc. Perhaps my most impressive gift was a plane ride over the Playa with the sky divers of Camp Burning Sky (thanks again!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWhMc_yNLGuO-PbBJ7KHlqBavOT5S1XXTep13qgsWuEA_doJil9q4h8eSRhk0pUOS_cOnl3cM5dGCQES4kjqh7zQvGFZUCDZ6HMVPBZsZ1HvyZJVC8rvNV1BPPLq6RFIWqSOVnJ6z-Vk/s1600/11953057_10104583832749233_6844652599992725418_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrWhMc_yNLGuO-PbBJ7KHlqBavOT5S1XXTep13qgsWuEA_doJil9q4h8eSRhk0pUOS_cOnl3cM5dGCQES4kjqh7zQvGFZUCDZ6HMVPBZsZ1HvyZJVC8rvNV1BPPLq6RFIWqSOVnJ6z-Vk/s320/11953057_10104583832749233_6844652599992725418_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Experiencing the gift economy was one of the most powerful aspects of the Burn. I wish this could better exist in the real world, or what Burners call the "default world." However having the power to give to others inherently means you are in a state of privilege. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Even in the alternative refuge of Burning Man, where one can express one's self and be accepted unlike in mainstream society, diversity in its many forms is lacking. Most participants are upper-middle class, White, able-bodied individuals. I encourage you to read my good friend<b> <a href="http://www.tyrafennell.com/545/burning-man-rebirth-on-the-playa-part-i/">Tyra Fennell's post</a></b> about being Black at Burning Man. I do believe Burning Man as an organization recognizes this weakness and is actively trying to address it. For example, they're actively collecting data through their <a href="http://burningman.org/culture/history/brc-history/census-data/"><b>annual census</b></a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So overall, by no means does everyone enter Burning Man from an equal playing field. Even when you are inside, people live in a variety of structures ranging from tents to air-conditioned RVs. In order to replicate Burning Man, something needs to be done so everyone is at least able to enter the space, meaning they are able to provide their own resources for self-sufficiency. Fortunately, in the default world, this is often provided by government assistance.<br />
<br />
I am a huge fan of representative democracy, which Burning Man is definitely not. Police are present to enforce drug laws and provide safety. There are free health clinics if you get sick or injured. While camps may practice their own forms of democracy and elect their leaders, at large, there are no elected leaders. Perhaps this is not necessary since Burning Man is predominantly a week long physical event, but if it were to exist as a new society, I would want democracy. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Principles expand impact </i><br />
<br />
Above I have examined some of the challenges in terms of replicating Burning Man at scale. Now I want to emphasize the significant positive impact that Burning Man is having on the world. Burning Man encompasses <a href="http://burningman.org/culture/philosophical-center/10-principles/"><b>Ten Principles</b></a>: radical inclusion, radical self-expression, radical self-reliance, gifting, decommodification, communal effort, civic responsibility, participation, immediacy, and leave no trace. I went to a workshop discussing ways people can apply the Principles into their everyday life in the default world. Two professors at James Madison University shared how they incorporate these values into their teaching and that they are about to publish a book about this. It was also shared how Burners can act as a virus in society spreading these philosophical values.<br />
<br />
Experiencing Burning Man actually does deeply immerse one in a community of people truly embodying the Ten Principles. Furthermore, being a part of Burning Man is much more than going to the
main event in Black Rock City. There are regional events that happen
throughout the year. Both during and after the event, many participants commented how they were more thoughtful about how they pick up their matter out of place (MOOP), or what is commonly referred to as trash. You think about your water usage in ways you never did before. <br />
<br />
When most of the Burning Man community comes from at least some baseline level of privilege, and when many come from the One Percent, exposing this demographic to communal and social justice values can seriously transform society slowly for the long-term. <br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-19534456458972500672015-08-12T16:53:00.000-04:002015-09-08T19:11:15.741-04:00Three Models for Women's Economic Empowerment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There is an awakening in American society for the need for women's
empowerment. While we are far from parity in most sectors of society
such as business, politics, academia, etc., great strides are being made
everyday. Research studies from <a data-mce-href="http://www.mckinsey.com/features/women_matter" href="http://www.mckinsey.com/features/women_matter" target="_blank">McKinsey </a>and <a data-mce-href="http://www.catalyst.org/" href="http://www.catalyst.org/" target="_blank">Catalyst</a>
have well documented the positive benefits of advancing women leaders,
so I won't focus on that today. Rather, let's examine three models for
how organizations and individuals can work together for the advancement
of women's economic empowerment.<br />
<br />
In short, there is no single
solution to advancing women leaders in American society and our
workforce. We need to combine strategies from the three models below.
All stakeholders need to play their part, and we can learn from each
other. Gender parity is possible and everyone will benefit from such
equality.<br />
<br />
<b>Public Policy & Legislation</b><br />
<i>Responsible parties:</i> Government entities (local, state, national, and international)<br />
<i>Looks Like: </i><br />
<ul>
<li>Laws such as the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and the Pregnancy Discrimination Act</li>
<li>Bills <a data-mce-href="http://www.womenspolicy.org/" href="http://www.womenspolicy.org/" target="_blank">such as these ones</a> currently on Capitol Hill</li>
<li><span class="st">The <a data-mce-href="http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/" href="http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/" target="_blank">Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)</a> at the UN</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Organizational Diversity Management</b><br />
<b> </b><i>Responsible parties: </i>Corporations and institutions<br />
<i> Looks Like: </i><br />
<ul>
<li>Organizational policies and practices such as the <a data-mce-href="http://www.unwomen.org/%7E/media/Headquarters/Media/Stories/en/unswap-brochure.pdf" href="http://www.unwomen.org/%7E/media/Headquarters/Media/Stories/en/unswap-brochure.pdf" target="_blank">United Nations (UN) System-wide action plan for gender equality</a></li>
<li>Investing $300 million for workplace diversity as <a data-mce-href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/07/technology/intel-budgets-300-million-for-diversity.html?_r=0" href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/07/technology/intel-budgets-300-million-for-diversity.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Intel</a> has done</li>
<li>Google's <a data-mce-href="http://www.google.com/diversity/at-google.html" href="http://www.google.com/diversity/at-google.html" rel="nofollow">unconscious bias</a> training program </li>
</ul>
<br />
<b> Individual & Community Empowerment</b><br />
<b> </b><i>Responsible parties: </i>Individual persons communities, and organizations<br />
<i> Looks Like: </i><br />
<ul>
<li>Joining women's networking groups such as <a data-mce-href="http://wearewatermark.org/" href="http://wearewatermark.org/" target="_blank">Watermark</a> or <a data-mce-href="http://www.womengetitdone.com/what-we-do/" href="http://www.womengetitdone.com/what-we-do/" target="_blank">Women Get It Done</a> in the Bay Area/DC or the <a data-mce-href="http://winonline.org/" href="http://winonline.org/" target="_blank">Women's Information Network (WIN)</a> in Washington, DC. </li>
<li>Taking actions to advance one's own leadership and professional skills</li>
<li>Programs such as those by <a data-mce-href="http://runningstartonline.org/programs/young-womens-political-leadership" href="http://runningstartonline.org/programs/young-womens-political-leadership" rel="nofollow">Running Start </a>and <a data-mce-href="http://www.emergeca.org/" href="http://www.emergeca.org/" rel="nofollow">Emerge California</a> encouraging women and girls to run for office </li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-36298402077637340772015-06-23T11:51:00.002-04:002015-06-26T02:48:20.894-04:00Ladies - Get Involved in Local Government<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I’m very proud to have recently graduated from<b> <a href="http://www.emergeca.org/">Emerge California</a>,</b> a training program for Democratic women interested in political leadership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For about seven years, I lived in Washington,
DC and dedicated my career to advancing women leaders in politics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I literally taught a class about gender and
politics at American University.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally,
it was my turn to practice what I preach and return to my beloved Bay
Area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rather than being the teacher, I
became the student.<br>
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I am very optimistic about the real possibility of creating
tangible impact via local government. For example, cities, counties, and states are able to pass ordinances and laws years before such change can happen at the federal level. For example, check out the <a href="http://www.hrc.org/campaigns/municipal-equality-index"><b>Municipality Equality Index</b></a> by the Human Rights Campaign. Municipalities can advance equality at a much faster pace than at the federal level. <br>
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Emerge California is truly the premier training program to prepare women
to be ethical leaders and transform the political system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moreover, one of my favorite aspects of
Emerge California is being a part of a genuine sisterhood of passionate,
ambitious, brilliant women working together to make a difference for our
communities. There are Emerge programs in 14 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Kentucky, Maine,
Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon,
Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin. I highly recommend applying and am happy to answer any questions about the application process or program. </div>
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While I am deeply familiar with federal government, the
system of local government is very different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
For instance, in California our legislators have term limits and are subject to the Brown Act, which ensures the public's right to information. Such governance practices do not yet completely exist at the federal level. </span><br>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Your city or county may offer free programs to learn more about how they work, so check out their website for programs about civic education. </span>I took a Civics 101 free class through the County of San Mateo. Below are some steps I have learned from Emerge California about how
someone can start to get involved in local government.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br></span></div>
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<b>Apply to join a
commission for your county or city</b></div>
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On the city and county level, multiple opportunities exist
for you to serve on a board or commission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>More women’s voices need to be on these important decision-making
bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out your city or county’s
website for current vacancies and apply. Serving on a commission is a unique
volunteer opportunity to support an issue you care about on the local level. I am very excited to have recently been appointed to my city's Planning Commission and my county's Commission on Aging. </div>
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<b>Volunteer with
organizations working in your community</b></div>
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Similar to school, a local community has tons of clubs and
organizations to get involved with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find
a cause you are passionate to and learn about how it exists in your
community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many national organizations
such as the Sierra Club or Rotary Club have local chapters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a great way to support an issue you
care about and connect with likeminded folks.</div>
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<b>Connect with your
County’s Democratic Central Committee</b></div>
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Each county has one main Democratic Central Committee that
serves as the umbrella group for the many local Democratic clubs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This central group has monthly meetings that
give you a true sense of the political pulse of the community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You get to connect with the community’s
leaders and understand the needs of the community. You can also volunteer for
leadership positions within the Central Committee. I am second alternate for a member of the executive committee. </div>
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Our communities need more women’s voices to be
represented!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decisions are made at the
local level that have a real impact on people’s lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get involved! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-5636921943087980142015-05-03T16:11:00.003-04:002018-04-18T00:41:34.875-04:00Solo Travel: Just Do It!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am thirty, and while I have been to almost thirty countries, I finally took my first solo vacation abroad. For years, I dreamed of visiting Costa Rica and I'm proud I finally made it happen! I highly recommend you challenge yourself by putting yourself in a foreign environment to explore on your own! This was a deeply empowering and transformative experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Even just a year ago, I never would have wanted to do this. I'd be bored. It wouldn't be fun. I wouldn't be safe. All these self imposed limitations proved to be false in reality. </span><br />
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I had a blast hanging out solo and navigating my way through a new country. I made new friends along the way. This was a great exercise in self-reliance.</span><br />
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Many women often hold themselves back from what can be very exciting new possibilities. What is your dream adventure that you have yet to cross off your bucket list? Why are you still waiting? Expand your comfort zone and ask yourself the following questions. What is uncomfortable for me? Why is that uncomfortable? How long will I keep holding myself back? Of course be smart, safe, and manage your risks, but don't let fear control you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, it's expensive to travel abroad. But you can consider low-cost or free ways to otherwise take a solo vacation. What new activities can you try? Where can you immerse yourself in a foreign experience, whatever kind of place that takes you outside your comfort zone. Can you do a one day silent retreat at your home? Have you ever eaten alone in a restaurant? Have you ever gone to the movies alone? Is there a Meetup or social outing you want to check out? Feel free to start with small steps. I wish you all the best as you create new possibilities for yourself!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-30723476942790210862015-01-19T01:14:00.002-05:002015-01-19T02:01:48.469-05:00Failing Forward at Imagine Talks 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This weekend I had the amazing opportunity to give my first 18 minute Ted Talk style speech at <b><a href="http://imaginetalks2015.strikingly.com/">Imagine Talks 2015</a>. </b>I'm most grateful to the Asian American Foundation and Edge Interns for this incredible experience. Please <a href="http://new.livestream.com/accounts/11729229/events/3733720/videos/74067839"><b>click here</b></a> to watch the speech.<br />
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This was a really exciting but also very stressful undertaking! I'm tremendously thankful to my many friends and colleagues who gave me advice in preparing this speech. Below are some of my main takeaways I learned from this experience that hopefully you can use the next time you take a risk and share your voice in a public arena.<br />
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<b>Start planning far in advance</b><br />
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I procrastinated and only started seriously sitting down to write the speech about two weeks in advance. I had the freedom to chose my own topic and I decided to write about failure. While therapeutic, let's just say it was not very fun to do some serious soul searching and begin to clearly articulate past experiences that were very painful. Wine proved to be crucial to the writing process! Having multiple nights to allow myself to take breaks and revisit the writing was imperative.<br />
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<b>Be open to serious feedback</b><br />
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The original version of this speech also mentioned two more recent failures, but after careful consideration and advice from colleagues, I chose not to include them in the speech. I do hope to share these stories with you in the near future, but this arena was not yet the ideal time.<br />
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I shared versions of the speech with trusted friends and colleagues and asked them for brutal advice. It was helpful to hear a variety of initial reactions to the speech. But ultimately, I synthesized the various opinions and formulated my own.<br />
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<b>Practice, practice, practice!</b><br />
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While I did a significant amount of practice, I wish I had done more. I talked out loud to myself while driving. I read over the speech on my phone when I was surrounded by crowds but had a moment to spare. Some of my friends were kind enough to spare thirty minutes to listen to me and share their thoughts. Imagine Talks was great and offered dress rehearsals. Overall, I suggest that you spend as much time as possible practicing in a situation as close as possible to the real speech, standing up, in heels, while clicking the Power Point slides.<br />
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The world needs to hear your story! Be vulnerable!<br />
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I was really scared to be this open about my failures, but I know there are others who have had similar tough times. We need to share our voices to remind each other we are not alone. After the speech, it was all worth it when many members of the audience privately confided in me about their similar challenges.<br />
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Cheers to failing forward together!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-5422904599269896822014-10-15T04:24:00.003-04:002014-10-15T13:27:09.213-04:00Building the Sisterhood of Science<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Residential Programs: Successful Intervention Strategies to Encourage Girls to STEM</b></div>
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I am the direct beneficiary of outreach programs to encourage girls to pursue opportunities in the STEM arena. My participation in two specific programs, <b><a href="http://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2004/jul/HQ_04212_high_school.html">NASA's Summer High School Apprenticeship Research Program</a> </b>(NASA SHARP) and <b><a href="http://themeprograms.berkeley.edu/wise.html">UC Berkeley's Womyn in Science and Engineering (WISE)</a></b> residential living program, prepared me to complete a bachelor's degree in environmental science from UC Berkeley. Gender specific programming is necessary to open the pipeline for more women in the STEM professions. The earlier you build a girl's confidence in math and science, the further and faster she can go in building her career. In particular, gender specific residential based STEM programs provide girls with the personal and professional support to build lifelong networks.</div>
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In 2001, I was selected to participate in NASA's Summer High School Apprenticeship Research program for women and ethnic minorities. The program was completely free; room, board, and transportation were provided in addition to a stipend. For approximately ten weeks, incoming high school seniors were placed in research groups at the University of Michigan. I worked with Dr. Keolian at the Center for Sustainable Systems to conduct a life cycle assessment of a re-manufactured engine. It was such an exciting research endeavor! In addition to lab work, students had a daily morning seminar about STEM careers, site visits on the weekends, and social programming. The students lived together in college dorms which allowed for intense bonding. I made lifelong friends and colleagues that continue to support me today. Early in my career, thanks to NASA SHARP, I developed the skills and confidence in science which ultimately earned me one of the few spots as an out-of-state student at UC Berkeley.<br>
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Since I had such a positive experience with NASA SHARP, my father encouraged me to apply to live in Berkeley's WISE dormitory for female students pursuing STEM majors. Students attended weekly seminars connecting them to STEM faculty and research opportunities. Many of the students were taking the same difficult math, science, and engineering classes, so we studied together and supported each other through these challenging courses. I started at Berkeley as a geology major, but the demands of the very hard science courses proved very tough for me. I considered switching to an easier social science degree, but my girlfriends encouraged me to stick it out in science. Today, the women I met at WISE continue to be my best friends and support me tremendously in my professional life.<br>
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The power of the female bond cannot be underestimated. As women seek to break the glass ceiling in male dominated fields of science and engineering, they break through more easily when supported by other women, especially their peers. Residential programs literally provide women the safe space to share their challenges and support each other to overcome hardship. The informal space of a collegial environment allows the opportunity for conversations that may not arise in more formal programs. Living together allows women to connect in unique ways. <br>
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As advocates of women in STEM explore options to close the gender parity gap, they should consider the power of gender specific residential programs. Many college campuses have women in science and engineering residential programs. Advocates can explore how these programs can be enhanced. Where such dorm programs do not exist, companies and philanthropists can consider making long-term capital investments to endow buildings designated for women in STEM. In addition to college dorms, advocates can create residential programs for high school girls such as summer programs. Building communities of the Sisterhood of Science will provide young women the necessary support systems to excel in their careers.<br>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-8116426616413644572014-08-21T02:30:00.001-04:002015-05-03T16:59:03.675-04:00Silicon Valley: Take on Your Next Challenge of Innovating Diversity in the Workplace <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div style="background-color: white; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #4d4f51; line-height: 23.9999980926514px; margin-bottom: 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Silicon Valley is the place of endless possibility. The birthplace of new technologies that are directly impacting the way people live around the world. Change moves very fast here, unlike the public policy processes of other powerhouse places like Washington, D.C. In fact, in many regards, the innovation happening here is far ahead of American laws and policies, and actually sets the tone for their creation. Many of the creative geniuses here like to attack a problem quickly, but with an innovative mindset that results in a lasting impact. The most recent obstacle pervasive throughout the Valley is its lack of diversity. However, this challenge is also the Valley's greatest opportunity to continue to reform the way America does business.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">In recent months, most of the leading technology companies in Silicon Valley have collectively acknowledged a major challenge their industry is experiencing overall. The tech leaders have publicly acknowledged the lack of diversity in their companies' employees. Moreover and fortunately, these public acknowledgements come with the recognition that this is a serious problem, and that the company is ultimately suffering from its dearth of diversity. Silicon Valley does not run from problems. It attacks them head on and finds the most effective solution. I am eager to see how Silicon Valley innovates diversity in the upcoming months and years. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Fixing the diversity dilemma has no single solution, and can't be cured with the development of a new app or upgrading a tech product. The solution must be multifaceted and include short-term and long-term strategies. On the whole, tech companies must not only focus on recruitment and retention, but also on how the company overall values its commitment to diversity.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Continue to collect data to get a deep understanding of how the diversity challenge exists in your specific company. Offer employees the opportunity to share candid feedback about their work experience in regards to diversity through regular anonymous surveys or focus groups. Seriously evaluate this feedback and enact what changes are feasible.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Additionally, short term tactics can include enhanced recruitment efforts to find new candidate pools. This may mean partnerships with minority organizations or schools from underrepresented communities. Make special efforts to recruit diverse candidates for upcoming internship programs. This may also look like a revised internal reference system that removes traditional barriers for talented candidates that don't necessarily come from the top schools or other privileged traditional recruitment pools and social networks. Scholarship funds or partnerships with established nonprofits are a great investment.</span></span><br />
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<em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Short-term Strategies</span></em></div>
<div style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Immediately, a company can actually improve its numbers in the short run through a number of tactics. Number one, focus on the retention of current employees who come from diverse backgrounds. Support them with employee resource groups, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. Companies can make sure they have the best maternity and paternity policies to entice employees to stay. Similarly, companies can provide resources and programs to on-ramp women who may have left the workforce due to child rearing. What diversity best practices has your company not yet utilized or could be doing better? Hire new staff soon to help you explore these questions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Keep an ongoing conversation about diversity within your organization. Host events to celebrate diversity and encourage education and awareness among all levels of staff. These can be round-table discussions, films, receptions honoring historical months and events, or conferences.</span></div>
<div style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Companies can consider industry-wide partnerships, coalitions, or working groups to work together to improve the tech industry overall. Sharing data and resources collectively can yield a greater impact. Commission a multilateral research study to explore system wide best practices that companies can undertake. </span><br />
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<div style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 30px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">As annual strategic planning, board meetings, marketing, and budgeting processes begin, make sure diversity is on the agenda and significant time is dedicated to its discussion. All top company leaders need to be included in this conversation. Companies need to determine long-term plans to address diversity in a comprehensive way. What exactly are the short-term and long-term diversity goals for your organization? What financial and human resources will you dedicate to achieving such goals within certain deadlines? How does your company value diversity in a comprehensive way, beyond just statistics about diverse employees, but across all aspects of your organization, from supply chains to potential customers? As I mentioned in a <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/article/20140811210031-23081378-tech-companies-look-to-the-un-to-improve-diversity" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">previous post</a>, the United Nations has recently created a system-wide plan of attack to improve gender parity among its employees. Tech companies can adapt this model to achieve their own diversity goals.</span><br />
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<span style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If there is an industry ready, willing, and able to take on the challenge of diversity in the workplace, it is high tech. Already, it has revolutionized the workplace, and perhaps diversity will be its greatest new innovation.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-57249363818325945642014-08-12T01:43:00.000-04:002015-05-03T16:56:47.241-04:00Tech Companies: Look to the UN to Improve Diversity<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 20px;">I'm grateful to the many tech companies that are publicly sharing their diversity data. Collecting dis-aggregated data is definitely a major starting point to addressing the problem of the lack of diversity. Moreover publicly acknowledging your numbers, especially when they're less than ideal, is definitely a laudable effort. Tech companies can follow the lead of the United Nations (UN) in implementing new strategies to improve diversity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Increasing diversity among an organization's workforce requires a multifaceted approach of recruitment and retention. The United Nations (UN) has also had a poor track record of retaining women in top leadership positions. However, in 2012 the UN took a bold step in committing to a new policy, the <a href="http://www.unwomen.org/~/media/Headquarters/Media/Stories/en/unswap-brochure.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #7b539d; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">UN system-wide Action Plan (UN SWAP)</a>, to set goals and measure progress towards the goals of gender equality and the empowerment of women. Tech companies can implement their own SWAP policy to set specific diversity goals and define actionable strategies to achieve such goals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The UN-SWAP provides a comprehensive framework to hold UN institutions accountable for mainstreaming gender perspectives into all aspects of their work, laying out guidance of how they might go about it and ensuring that women are represented in equal numbers at all levels and in all the work of the UN whether it is peace-building, conflict resolution and mediation or procurement of gender-specific bulletproof vests for police and military contingents to ensuring adequate financial resources for programs dedicated to gender equality. Its 15 Performance Indicators, which provide a common understanding, method and progressive sliding scale for all UN entities to monitor progress towards the goal of gender equality, are organized around six main elements: strengthening accountability; enhancing results-based management; establishing oversight through monitoring, evaluation and reporting; allocating sufficient human and financial resources; developing and/or strengthening staff capacity and competency in gender mainstreaming; and ensuring coherence/coordination and knowledge information management at the global, regional and national levels. Moreover, and similar to the needs of a large multinational company, the UN-SWAP allows an organization to specifically track progress in individual departments and divisions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Adapting the 15 SWAP indicators, companies can set their own goals, time lines, and strategies to achieve their diversity goals. While the UN-SWAP focuses on measuring gender, companies can modify it to address their broader definitions of diversity, which include race, disability, sexual orientation, age, etc. The UN-SWAP model provides tools to increase the recruitment and retention of employees from underrepresented communities. However, since it is a comprehensive approach to diversity, it also can serve as a way for companies to look at how they value diversity across their entire organization, from suppliers to untapped customer demographics.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The private sector has finally accepted the concept that increased diversity often yields increased profits and a more talented workforce. I commend the many tech companies for taking the first step by publicly acknowledging their current challenge. I encourage them to take the next step and consider the UN-SWAP as a new solution to achieving their diversity goals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">More Info:</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/redir/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Escholarsstrategynetwork%2Eorg%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fssn_basic_facts_oleary_on_gender_equality_in_the_united_nations%2Epdf&urlhash=bfZ6&trk=prof-publication-title-link" style="border: 0px; color: #7b539d; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A United Nations Accountability Plan to Empower Women and Further Gender Equality</span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: normal;"><i>Original post from <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140811210031-23081378-tech-companies-look-to-the-un-to-improve-diversity?trk=prof-post">https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140811210031-23081378-tech-companies-look-to-the-un-to-improve-diversity?trk=prof-post</a></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-83465704966914929172014-04-14T15:58:00.000-04:002015-05-03T16:57:23.573-04:00An Ode to My Mentor, Arnie Thomas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtfXk9Mk8UOIN8RHff_miVGkpUSERTpqUmjWjT82qbNJt-7VGyzWYfFQ-2-pF8UvNV3Ny_eHxWXcZ5i7JtURQi55NGGJoaYRl8XQjagh9LX9OPV8mMtP8JkdmowQGTYibm32xZUaRzf0/s1600/536317_10150814431991482_1853469569_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtfXk9Mk8UOIN8RHff_miVGkpUSERTpqUmjWjT82qbNJt-7VGyzWYfFQ-2-pF8UvNV3Ny_eHxWXcZ5i7JtURQi55NGGJoaYRl8XQjagh9LX9OPV8mMtP8JkdmowQGTYibm32xZUaRzf0/s1600/536317_10150814431991482_1853469569_n.jpg" height="270" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">2012 Running Start Women to Watch Awards</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My mentor, life coach, and dear friend <a href="http://blogs.rollcall.com/hill-navigator/in-memoriam-arnie-thomas/?dcz=%20."><b>Arnie Thomas</b></a> recently passed. I would like to share with you some of the invaluable lessons he taught me. I can't begin to share all the wisdom I gained from him, but hopefully you can learn a thing or two. He wrote regularly for <a href="http://www.clotureclub.com/exclusive/everyday-mentor/"><b><i>Everyday Mentor</i></b></a>, and I highly recommend you read his direct words there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I hope someday you can find an amazing mentor like Arnie! I pray that someday I can be an incredible mentor to someone else, the way he was to me. Arnie touched the lives of many. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you so feel compelled, I am sure Arnie and his family would be most
grateful if you <b>considered making a donation of any amount in his honor to <a href="https://secure.runningstartonline.org/page/contribute/onetimedonation">Running Start</a></b>, the organization that we served together on the board of directors. I'm so grateful to Running Start for bringing Arnie into my life. Thank you very much for giving back to Arnie's dream of empowering women leaders!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What Arnie Taught Me</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"What Can I Do to Be of Service to You in the Future?"</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Arnie embodied Dale Carnegie's philosophy of putting yourself in someone else's shoes. He taught me to always, without hope of personal gain, offer myself to help others. When sending emails to others, he told me to end with the words, "Please always let me know how I can be of service to you in the future." When interviewing for jobs, he encouraged me to ask the interviewer, "What is your biggest challenge? How do you see me helping with that?" Everyone has a challenge they are dealing with. Try to figure out what that is and how you can assist them in that endeavor. The best way to grow in your success and happiness is by helping others. Together, we can make the world a better place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Be Vulnerable</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">One of my favorite Arnie lessons was when he encouraged me to listen to Brené Brown's Ted Talk about <i><a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability"><b>The Power of Vulnerability</b></a>. </i>Arnie taught me that to be vulnerable with others was a strength and not a weakness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Be an Avid Reader</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Arnie was a demanding coach! Each week, he gave me a book to read that we would then discuss. Reading is one of the best ways to stay on top of trends and reflect on your growth. <i> </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Recognize Your Bad Habits & Cultivate New Habits</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">One of the best books Arnie made me read was <a class="ProductTitle" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="AuthorArtistTitle_productTitle" itemprop="name" name="productTitle" style="text-decoration: none;"><i>The Power Of Habit - Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business</i></a><i>
</i><span id="AuthorArtistTitle_spanExtendedTitle">by Charles Duhigg. I now recognize my triggers for bad habits and how to create incentives to modify that behavior. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Classy is a State of Mind</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Arnie taught me that no matter where you come from in life, you have the choice to create new possibilities for yourself. First and foremost you must respect yourself, and not settle to be treated any such less by others. If others no long serve you in this way, you need to let them go.<i> </i>You are not obligated to persist in unhealthy relationships. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">How to Find a Mentor/Coach</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Arnie and I
met while serving together on the board of Running Start, a national
nonprofit preparing young women for political leadership. I really
liked him the moment I met him, and always knew I wanted to get to know
him better. At the time we met, I worked for a women's leadership
nonprofit, and we were starting a mentoring program. I knew he was an<b> </b>expert
on mentoring, so I asked him to coffee and he shared his advice with
me. I then invited him to a networking reception for our organization.
I continued to see him at board meetings, and always smiled when I saw
him. He exuded positive energy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It wasn't until about a
year after casually knowing him that we entered into a more formal mentoring
relationship. I had entered a period of significant personal and
professional transition, and knew I needed help. I was going through my
mental Rolodex of my network to find support and Arnie came to my
mind. I asked him again to coffee to seek his wisdom on how to navigate
this new hardship. He suggested we work together formally and he
offered to be my life coach. For a period of about seven months, we met
almost weekly in the halls of the Willard Hotel or at Bistro Bis. Arnie
was always nothing but class!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I can't emphasize
enough the value of making the personal investment of time and money to
work with a life coach. I have had many other mentors and am indebted
to them, but engaging in a formal, regular mentoring relationship through coaching yields
different results. For all the money you spend on yourself on
Starbucks, clothes, and manicures, a more long lasting investment would
be working with a coach! You can only take yourself so far in your
personal development. You need the help of another to teach you what
you don't know that you don't know.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Arnie believed in me during a time when I did not believe in myself. He taught me ways to be self-sufficient for my personal happiness and well being. I couldn't be where I am today without his support. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In terms of
choosing a coach, I recommend finding someone who shares your values,
but also is distinctly different from you. Like me, Arnie was a feminist, and also a Catholic. However, I feel I highly benefited from working with a male coach. I have always worked in
female dominated workplaces, and the vast majority of my personal and
professional network was female. Having a trusted male perspective was
extremely helpful!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So if there are people in your life you admire, respect, and want to get to know better, just ask them to grab a coffee. It could lead to a life changing mentoring relationship!</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Learn more from Arnie! Check out the resources below:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 1.25;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 1.25;"><a href="http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/76479/what-makes-a-good-leader-vulnerability-compassion-meet-arnie-thomas-a-mentor-helping-to-make-a"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What Makes a Good Leader? Vulnerability, Compassion? Meet Arnie Thomas, a Mentor Helping to Make a Difference</span></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 1.25;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; line-height: 1.25;"><a href="http://www.clotureclub.com/exclusive/everyday-mentor/"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Everyday Mentor</span></a></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-85648358171948648142014-03-10T23:15:00.001-04:002015-05-03T16:57:40.040-04:00The Missed Opportunity: Bridging the Gap Between Girls' Education and Women’s Political Participation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For the first time in modern history,
in many countries around the globe such as Lebanon, Brazil, and the United
States, women are graduating from universities and colleges at higher rates than
their male peers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, a gender
gap persists in parity between men and women in top leadership roles of all
sectors of society such as business, law, and politics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Higher education rates for women are
often compared to higher labor force participation rates for women, but rarely
is the gendered link between education and political participation examined. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although a pipeline of educated women
exists as potentially qualified candidates, this does not automatically translate
into parity among elected leaders in parliaments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>With the upcoming UN Commission on the Status of Women, and as the global community
strives towards gender equality in the post-2015 agenda, governments,
philanthropists, and activists should consider encouraging the civic engagement
of young women and girls as a successful and innovative intervention strategy
to breaking the glass ceiling for women’s political participation</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Through
Millennium Development Goal Three, the global community has made its commitment
to gender equality in access to education, work, and participation in
decision-making. Growing consensus in the development community confirms that a
best practice for achieving progress toward development goals more efficiently
and effectively is to channel investments in gender equality and female
empowerment, citing various social and economic benefits that are accrued as
both direct and indirect consequence of the advancement of women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These include but are not limited to
decreased violence and increased social stability; local, national and regional
economic growth; more inclusive, accountable and transparent governance;
improved nutrition and health outcomes for maternal, child and family health;
higher education outcomes; more stable and sustainable population patterns;
more effective peace agreements; and increased access to enjoyment of equality,
dignity and rights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gender
equality is imperative to achieving development outcomes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>As
nations have made the decision to invest in the education of its girls, they
should ensure these girls are adequately prepared to be leaders in their
society and fully contribute their cultivated talents.</b> These educated girls are
capable of becoming leaders in the most influential arena in the world — the
political arena.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As more women are
in positions of power, research strongly demonstrates that social issues are
prioritized. Some studies suggest that more women in government promotes higher
levels of transparency, lower corruption, higher attention to social and constituent
concerns, higher collaboration across lines of conflict and greater investment
in development.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>A democracy
without women leaders is not a true democracy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Scholars
in the United States such as <a href="http://www.american.edu/spa/wpi/upload/Girls-Just-Wanna-Not-Run_Policy-Report.pdf"><b>Jennifer Lawless and Richard Fox</b></a> report that one
of the most significant barriers to increasing the number of women in elected office
is the gender gap in political ambition, <u>and that this gap begins at the time
women are studying at university</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Among
surveys of equally qualified women and men, their research finds that women are
much more unlikely to want to run for office. On average, women need to be
asked by someone else to run for office five to seven times before they
seriously consider their candidacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, when women do run for office, data proves that women win at the
same rates of male candidates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Overall,
a main problem is that not enough women are running for office. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>The
key to strengthening and increasing women’s representation in government is to encourage
young women and girls to get involved in civic engagement leadership and elected to office
earlier in life.</b> The earlier a candidate begins to run for office, the better
are his or her chances of climbing the political ladder faster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nineteen of the last presidents of the
United States first ran for office before the age of 35. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally, according to <a href="http://runningstartonline.org/"><b>Running Start</b></a>, over forty percent of the
women who currently serve in Congress began their political careers by serving
in student government in their youth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When the path to achieve significant political influence and chair a
committee is based on seniority, a candidate benefits from being elected when
they are young.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The advantages of
beginning a political career early in life cannot be underestimated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As
the issues of girls' education and women’s political participation are revisited
in the post-2015 agenda, the global development community should consider new
intervention strategies to promote the civic engagement of young women and
girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where student government
opportunities exist at universities, gender-specific training programs such as <a href="http://www.aauw.org/what-we-do/campus-programs/elect-her-campus-women-win/"><b>Elect Her</b></a> can be
provided to encourage more young women to run for student government.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where youth parliaments exist,
efforts can be made to ensure equal access for girls such as mentoring programs,
internships, and girls' caucuses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>More universities can create <a href="http://www.nwsa.org/"><b>Women's Studies</b></a> programs to give students
the chance to analyze systemic and personal gender discrimination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Political parties can design
recruitment programs to develop young women as candidates and encourage them to
run for local office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>At an early
age, young women and girls need to be introduced to role models and skills to
give them the confidence to assume political leadership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Educating
a girl needs to include a leadership development curriculum to empower her to
serve her community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Governments,
foundations, and corporations have a tremendous opportunity to find innovative
solutions to bridging the gap between girls education and women’s political
participation, thus creating a more inclusive democracy for all citizens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>Young women and girls are the untapped,
capable talent pool eager for the opportunity to solve the challenges of the
post-2015 agenda. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-47827169736485339832014-02-13T15:27:00.001-05:002014-02-19T22:03:53.705-05:00The UN Recognizes the Power of Young Women and Girls!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Today in New York City, UN Women and the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth held an event “<a href="http://www.un.org/youthenvoy/news/young-women-and-girls-leadership-a-focus-of-the-upcoming-side-event-organised-by-the-office-of-the-envoy-on-youth/"><b>Young Women and Girls: Leaders of Today for a Better Tomorrow</b></a>.” Panelists included Ms. Lakshmi Puri, Deputy Executive Director of UN Women, H.E. Ms. Bénédicte Frankinet, Permanent Representative of Belgium, H.E. Mr. Masood Khan, Permanent Representative of Pakistan, Ms. Stacy Martinet, Chief Marketing Officer, Mashable, Ms. Chapa Pereira, Youth Delegate from Sri Lanka, and Ms. Ralien Bekkers, Youth Delegate from the Netherlands, and Mr. Ahmad Alhendawi, Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth. You can <b><a href="http://webtv.un.org/">watch a recording</a></b> of the event or join the conversation on Twitter by following #FutureYW. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I am grateful that today<b> </b>UN entities honored the power of young women and girls! </span></span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Now is a special opportunity for young women and girls to share their voices in creating the international development agenda. The world community is about to launch a global dialogue on the <a href="http://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/post-2015"><b>Post-2015 </b></a>development agenda about what's next after the Millennium Development Goals. Additionally, 2015 marks the anniversary of the <b><a href="http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/beijing/index.html">Beijing Platform for Action</a></b>, a turning point for the women's human rights movement. Recently at an African Union Summit in January, young women and girls presented <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/faraigundan/2014/01/31/the-future-young-african-women-and-girls-want-statement-delivered-during-the-22nd-african-union-summit/"><b>a statement</b></a> about their vision for the future of Africa. The UN is only beginning to witness the influence of young women and girls!<b> </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I was very happy to see that young women and girls from both developed and developing countries were given the chance to share their voice as panelists. Ralien Bekkers, Dutch Youth Representative on Sustainable Development, stressed the importance of including girls' voices in the dialogue in real time. Chapa Perera, UN Youth Delegate from Sri Lanka emphasized that the starting point for addressing the challenges of women and girls is for these girls to empower themselves. These ladies were brilliant and inspiring!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Key takeaways from the discussion</b></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">We need to change gender stereotypes and the portrayal of women and girls in the media.<b> </b></span></span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Men, boys, and girls' parents need to be involved and educated about the value of girls' empowerment.</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Young women and girls need to have access to technology to gain an education and share their voice.</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">In addition to formal education, informal education programs need to be created to train young women and girls to achieve their leadership potential. (<b><a href="http://www.aauw.org/what-we-do/campus-programs/elect-her-campus-women-win/">Elect Her</a> </b>and the <a href="http://runningstartonline.org/programs/young-womens-political-leadership"><b>Young Women's Political Leadership Program</b></a> are my favorite examples of such trainings.)</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Governments need to prioritize young women and girls in terms of funding, policies, and laws.</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Violence against women and girls and limited reproductive rights continue to be barriers to the advancement of young women and girls. </span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Through building their own confidence, young women and girls can be active agents of change. They do not need to wait to be empowered by others. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Check out these opportunities to get involved</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><a href="http://wcy2014.com/participant-Info.php">Participate in the 2014 World Conference on Youth in Sri Lanka</a></b></span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><a href="http://www.un.org/youthenvoy/news/call-for-partners-join-the-global-partnership-for-youth-in-the-post-2015-development-agenda/">Join the global partnership for youth in the post-2015 development agenda</a></b></span></span></li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-8658007789388635652014-01-29T21:45:00.000-05:002014-04-01T13:43:46.629-04:00Ten Ways College Women Can "Lean In"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Tonight, I had the great privilege of speaking at the launch event of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lean-In-at-American-University/584754534928764"><b>American University's new Lean In group</b></a>! I shared with the students ten ways I felt they could "Lean In" as college students. Regardless of your age, we can all reflect on how we can incorporate these ideas into our personal and professional goals.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1. Read the book <a href="http://leanin.org/book/"><i>Lean In</i></a></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you haven't read the book yet, you definitely should. If you've read it, consider reading it again, or joining or starting a <a href="http://leanin.org/circles/"><b>Lean In Circle</b></a>. You can also stay continually updated on the book's topics by signing up for the newsletters of organizations such as <a href="http://uchic.com/"><b>UChic</b></a>, <b><a href="http://www.levo.com/">Levo League</a>, <a href="http://www.themuse.com/advice">Daily Muse</a>, <a href="http://bossedup.org/">Bossed Up</a>, </b>or <b><a href="https://www.learnvest.com/">Learn Vest</a></b>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2.</b> <b>Develop a self-care practice</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wish I started healthier habits earlier on in my life! Figure out your personal definition of what wellness means to you, and create regular practices to live that definition. Do you drink enough water? Do you eat healthy or know how to cook? Do you exercise regularly? How do you take care of your spiritual health? Do you always use <a href="http://www.smith.edu/wellness/sex_safesex.php"><b>safe-sex </b></a>practices? You can start to explore all this by visiting your campus wellness center. Additionally, your campus probably offers free therapy sessions, so take advantage of this opportunity! <a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/master-self-care-femfuture.html"><b>Read this</b></a> for more ideas on self-care. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Go out into your city</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Get off campus and visit your local community. Do informational interviews with professionals working near your school. Volunteer with a local organization. For students in major cities, do a part-time internship during the semester. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Do an internship</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">You absolutely must do <i>at least </i>one internship during your college career! Ideally, you would do one per year. I know this is difficult since many internships are unpaid. However, in today's job market, a college degree, even with a 4.0 GPA, is not enough. You need professional experiences to get hired after graduation.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Visit your career center</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Please visit your career center at least once a semester. Even if you feel you have maximized the center's resources, I guarantee you can always learn more. Meet with an advisor. Go to a career fair or recruiting event. Your tuition is paying for this resource so definitely utilize it!</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Run for student government</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Approximately 42% of the women who currently serve in Congress got their start in student government. I ran for student government and lost, but you can<b> <a href="http://www.dailycal.org/2013/04/19/advice-for-the-young-women-of-uc-berkeley/">read here</a></b> about how it changed my life forever.<b> </b>I really want you to run for student government, but take this to mean I suggest you gain leadership experience. Working as a Resident Assistant was one of my most transformational experiences (<a href="http://womenontopblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/ten-years-ago-today-i-realized-my.html"><b>read my RA story here</b></a>). Start a club, or become an officer of a club. Get promoted in your student job. In addition to internships, future employers will want to see leadership experience. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">7. Find a mentor</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Mentoring is up, down, and all around! A mentor is not just someone older than you. Connect with your peers. If you are interested in a student group, talk to one of the officers. Go to a professor's office hours just to discuss career paths. Ask your internship supervisor to introduce you to a colleague. Be proactive in finding mentors in your life. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">8. FAIL!!!</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Yes, I am actively encouraging you to fail. In college, I sold feminist t-shirts online, but eventually the business failed. I learned a lot from the experience. Put yourself out there and take risks. Even if you hate your internship, you will get a better sense of what you would love doing. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">9. Master self-validation</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Become a self-confident person and fully responsible for your own fulfillment and happiness. Don't be jealous and compare yourself to others, but celebrate other's accomplishments. Don't depend on Facebook or Snapchat to feel good about yourself. Don't depend on your partner to make you feel pretty. Don't depend on your parents to tell you they are proud of you for overcoming challenges. A way to start cultivating this attitude is to ask yourself daily, "What am I proud of from today?" Consider answering this question everyday in a journal for a week. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">10. Give back</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sheryl Sandberg emphasizes how women need to support each other in order to make society better for everyone. Be a mentor to a fellow student the year below you, or to a high school girl. Donate to or volunteer with an organization. Pray for others. Practice gratitude.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BONUS POINTS (Unofficial #11)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Study Abroad</b>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I wish I had studied abroad, so I really encourage you to do that. If you can't, think of ways you can really stretch your comfort zone. Learn a new language. However you define it, somehow immerse yourself in a foreign or totally new environment. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-80939297468744783512014-01-08T13:03:00.002-05:002014-02-19T22:05:02.829-05:00So You Want to Join a Nonprofit Board?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holiday season. As I talked with girlfriends about their New Year's resolutions, many of them mentioned wanting to give back to their community, and I suggested these women join nonprofit boards. The process of joining a nonprofit board can be very confusing, so I seek to clarify that here. You are never too young to join a nonprofit board. At this moment, you have valuable skills that many nonprofits desperately need.<br />
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<i>So what is a nonprofit board? </i><br />
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The board of directors of a nonprofit is basically the governing body of a nonprofit organization. They provide the strategic oversight to ensure the long-term fulfillment of the organization's mission. Unlike corporate boards, board members of a nonprofit are usually not compensated financially. In fact, most often, nonprofit board members are expected to donate a certain amount annually, in the idea of "write" or "raise." For example, an organization may ask you to personally "write" an annual donation, or "raise" that amount through your personal and professional networks. <br />
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The board members are ultimately financially and legally responsible for the organization. In most organizations, they work with paid staff members to guide the organization through growth and transition. But don't worry, nonprofits have Directors & Officers insurance (D&O) to protect individual members from financial or legal harm. So when joining a board, ask about their D &O. <br />
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As a board member, you are expected to support the organization in a number of ways. You will be asked to attend regular board meetings, often on a quarterly basis. You may join a specific board committee to contribute your skill set with the organization. You may be asked to attend program events to support the organization, and possibly host events to recruit your network to get involved with the organization. As mentioned above, fundraising is one of the most important requirements of a board member. But don't be afraid, there are many different ways to raise money, and this is an invaluable professional skill transferable to all trades.<br />
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<i>Why should I join a board?</i><br />
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The number one reason to join a nonprofit board is because you care about the cause the organization serves. You want to give back. Did you love running clubs in school? Did you love volunteering and getting involved with your community? Then your next step is to join a nonprofit board.<br />
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In addition to helping others, serving on a nonprofit board has tremendous professional benefits. Look at the biographies for people you admire. I bet you they probably have board service included in their bio. Boards can also allow you to develop skills you may not be able to get in your day job. You can explore new passions, expand your network, and gain transferable leadership experience. As you progress in your career, I'm sure you will want to join the board of large, prestigious organizations. To get there, you need to start now. <br />
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<i>How do I join a board? </i><br />
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As with many things in life, networking is key to joining a nonprofit board. I was 24 when I first joined a nonprofit board. The year before I officially joined the board, I ran for a seat on the board of the <a href="http://www.winonline.org/"><b>Women's Information Network</b></a><i> </i>and lost the election. I stayed involved with the organization, took on volunteer leadership roles, and won my election the next year. Since that experience, I have served on many other boards, and I am proud to currently serve on the board of <a href="http://www.runningstartonline.org/"><b>Running Start</b></a>, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women to run for office.<br />
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For all of my board opportunities, I was previously involved with the organization. I joined one organization as a volunteer grant writer, and three years later joined the board. With another organization, I invited someone from the organization to be a guest speaker where I worked, and then they invited me to be a guest speaker for their organization. Many organizations working with youth or young professionals are very willing to have younger people serve on their boards. However, even larger organizations are seeking to recruit diverse talent, and are eager for young professionals to serve on their board. <br />
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So for some organizations, you need to run for a position, but for others, you need to be recommended by a current board member. It helps to have donation history with the organization. When you are a board candidate, they will check if you have been giving to the organization for some time. So even if it's $20 annually or monthly, start donating now.<br />
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What organizations are you currently connected to? What can be a next step for you to get more involved? What organizations are you not currently connected to but would like to learn more about? Sign up for their newsletter or attend one of their events. Talk to your friends and colleagues who serve on boards for their advice. Check out <b><a href="http://www.boardnetusa.org/public/home.asp">Board Net USA</a></b>, which lists<b> </b>current board vacancies. <br />
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You are qualified now to serve on a board. Young people are very underrepresented on nonprofit boards, but we have so many skills and experiences to share. As you start the New Year, make time for volunteering and giving back to your community! <br />
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<b>Additional resources to check out:</b><br />
<b><a href="https://www.boardsource.org/eweb/"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="https://www.boardsource.org/eweb/">BoardSource</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.nextavenue.org/content/tool-find-volunteer-opportunities">Volunteer Match</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.councilofnonprofits.org/resources/resources-topic/boards-and-governance">National Council of Nonprofits</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.idealist.org/info/Volunteer/Board">Idealist</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.bridgespan.org/Publications-and-Tools/Nonprofit-Boards/Find-and-Join-a-Nonprofit-Board/How-Find-Rewarding-Board-Position.aspx#.UssSSYWBjrM">The Bridgespan Group</a></b><br />
<a href="http://www.boardnetusa.org/public/home.asp"><br /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-81683871769929292242013-12-23T20:10:00.001-05:002014-02-19T22:05:27.822-05:00Must Read: I am Malala<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My favorite book I've read this year has to be <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0316322407/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=36271516120&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1565121660100650607&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_3lvwi4fi71_e"><b>I am Malala</b></a>. </i>I highly recommend you read it! I couldn't put it down.<br />
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As an American, every day we hear about terrorism and the growing tension between our country and Pakistan. Malala's book does an excellent job at painting a detailed landscape of what it's like to live daily with the Taliban in your neighborhood. With so much misunderstanding in our culture about Islam, Malala a devout Muslim, defends her faith yet criticizes the complexities of how it's manifested in her world. American readers can gain a better understanding of Pakistan, Islam, and more importantly our nation's need to seriously evaluate our use of drones. </div>
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As someone who clung to my books and always wanted to be at the top of my class, I deeply connected with Malala's story. She just wanted to study and learn so she could best use her talents to help her society. Every person on the planet has the right to develop themselves and apply their talents. Your gender or what country you were born in should not change that. In the United States, our founders proudly declared this as "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."</div>
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I believe in Malala's vision of education for girls and boys everywhere. This is absolutely possible. It's not a disease in need of discovering a cure. It's a societal problem that the world has the capacity to solve.</div>
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We can all play our part in that solution. First, educate yourself and learn from Malala's story. Read her book. She co-founded an organization <b><a href="http://www.malalafund.org/">The Malala Fund</a> </b>so please<b> </b>follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MalalaFund"><b>Facebook</b></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/malalafund"><b>Twitter</b></a> and consider making a donation. You can also support local girls in your community as a volunteer. </div>
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Happy Holidays and thanks so much for reading this blog! Cheers to the power of young women and girls! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-68486329625420088312013-12-17T18:19:00.001-05:002013-12-17T19:46:32.318-05:00Holiday Cards: The Perfect Networking ToolHoliday cards are the perfect way to cultivate your network. What better way to reach out to someone for no particular reason but to say happy holidays! Sending a card to someone is a nice way to say, "Hey, I haven't forgotten you. Please don't forget me!" <div><br></div><div>In addition to your normal card recipient list of family and friends, think of whom you are grateful for in your professional network. Who would you like to get to know better or possibly work with in the future? Did you meet someone once for coffee, but haven't reconnected in awhile? Send them a holiday card! </div><div><br></div><div>You can buy nondenominational holiday cards from your local CVS or Duane Reade. In recent years, I have ordered customized cards from Vistaprint.com. The inside of the card has a short printed message, my name, email, and cell. I write each person's name in the card and a personalized message to them, just a sentence or two. I generally send about 100-150 cards. This takes a lot of work, but people definitely notice and appreciate it. As long as the card reaches them by the first week of the new year, I have succeeded! </div><div><br></div><div>Happy Holiday card writing! Share the joy of the season with your networks!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3338490880472942111.post-72965670823349860242013-12-03T09:16:00.002-05:002014-02-19T22:07:29.205-05:00So You Want to Write an Op-Ed?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> I recently had the exciting opportunity of publishing an
<a href="http://articles.latimes.com/2013/nov/22/opinion/la-oe-shames-kennedy-women-20131122"><b>op-ed in </b></a><i><a href="http://articles.latimes.com/2013/nov/22/opinion/la-oe-shames-kennedy-women-20131122"><b>The Los Angles Times</b></a>. </i>I am deeply grateful for the
amazing collaboration with my co-author <a href="http://www.scholarsstrategynetwork.org/scholar-profile/406"><b>Shauna Shames</b></a>. I am also incredibly grateful to
<a href="http://www.scholarsstrategynetwork.org/ssn-leader/linda-forman"><b>Linda Forman-Naval </b></a>for her political astuteness and to the <a href="http://www.scholarsstrategynetwork.org/"><b>Scholars Strategy Network</b></a> for being the premier place to bridge the gap between academic research
and policy decision-making.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> I
hope you are thinking of op-ed writing! You have valuable opinions that deserve to be heard.
More voices of people from diverse backgrounds need to share their ideas
through op-ed writing. According
to the Op-Ed Project, men are<b> </b>80-90% of contributors to key opinion forums; 84% of T.V. pundits on Sunday morning talk shows; and 87% of Wikipedia contributors. More women's voices need to be in these spaces! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> So
how do you publish an op-ed? My
first suggestion is to get some formal training. I am an alumna of the <a href="http://www.theopedproject.org/"><b>Op-Ed Project</b></a> and <a href="http://www.womensmediacenter.com/pages/progressive-womens-voices"><b>Progressive Women’sVoices</b></a>. Both are training programs
that empower women to find their voices and give them the technical skills to
share their message. I can’t emphasize
enough how crucial these programs were for me to demystify the media pitching
process, and to believe in the possibility of actually getting my voice heard. If you are currently in school,
see if you can take a writing class.
If you are a young professional, many professional membership
organizations offer media training opportunities. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b>Own Your Expertise</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b> </b>You
are an expert! Believe it! Own it! Each of us has our own
story. Due to our various life
experiences, we see the world in a unique way. We have different ways of understanding what is happening
around us. You are never too old
or too young to write an op-ed.
Who better to comment on higher education debate than a college student?
When you write your op-ed, make sure to proudly declare what makes you a
credible thought leader on this topic.
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b>Find Your News Hook</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b> </b>One
of the most important aspects of
what makes op-ed writing different than other forms of writing is
timeliness. A media outlet wants
to publish op-eds that are relevant to what is currently happening in the
news. How do you connect your idea
to what’s going on in the world at this specific moment? I published my <a href="http://www.dailycal.org/2013/04/19/advice-for-the-young-women-of-uc-berkeley/"><b>first op-ed</b></a> earlier this year. I felt very
strongly about the article giving advice to young women in Princeton’s and
Harvard’s campus newspapers. I
took the opportunity to write a similar article for the newspaper for my alma
mater. Similarly, Shauna and I used the hook of JFK’s
anniversary.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Timeliness is
key! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"><b>Try, Try, and Try
Again</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> I
first took the Op-Ed Project training in 2011. I have been pitching op-eds for about two years. I have had many rejections, but I
didn’t give up. You need to just start
writing, try pitching, and be resilient.
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> I
am always eager for guest bloggers to contribute to Women on Top. You can write about any topic of your
choice, broadly related to the power of young women and girls. Please email me <a href="mailto:oleary.pamela@gmail.com">oleary.pamela@gmail.com</a> if you are
interested in writing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: large;"> Happy
writing! Your voice is valuable and deserves to be heard! </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05703482203837545955noreply@blogger.com0