Give to Gain  - International Women’s Day 2026 

As an all‑women executive board, we are often asked what difference representation at the top really makes. Our answer is simple: it changes how leadership shows up — every day.

Leadership, for us, is not about individual achievement or personal visibility. It is about stewardship: creating the conditions in which others can thrive, speak up and grow with confidence. Each of us has benefited from women who shared their time, their perspective and, crucially, their belief in us — often before we fully believed in ourselves.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” resonates deeply with our experience. We have seen first‑hand that when leaders give generously — whether that is through mentorship, sponsorship, flexibility, or trust — the return is not diminished authority, but stronger teams, better decisions and more sustainable success.

As a collective, we strive to lead in a way that is collaborative rather than competitive, decisive yet inclusive. We challenge one another, support one another and bring different perspectives to the table — not as a statement, but because it leads to better outcomes for our business and our people.

We are proud to be part of an organisation where women’s voices are increasingly visible at every level. But we also recognise that progress does not happen by accident. It happens when leaders make conscious choices: to listen, to advocate, and to create space for others to step forward.

We also recognise the societal narratives that too often pit women against one another — the outdated norms of female jealousy, comparison, or the expectation that women must compete for limited space. These narratives do not serve us. They never have. At Belasko, we actively reject these trends. We treat everyone with fairness and respect, and we are committed to lifting each other up, not tearing each other down. When women champion women, the entire organisation benefits.

And while this piece celebrates the power of women supporting women, we also acknowledge the vital role that men play as allies — those who champion equity, amplify women’s voices, and use their influence to open doors. Inclusive leadership is strengthened when everyone participates.

This International Women’s Day, our message is simple. When women support women — and when men stand alongside them — everyone gains. The time, encouragement and opportunities we give today shape the leaders of tomorrow — and that is a return worth investing in.

Hannah Dunnell
Katie Le Gallez
Jenni Hartley