I was a serious girl who loved nature and read a lot. Growing up at the end of the world in Chile, I wanted to have an impact and work internationally, and first considered a career in humanities; law or journalism. After a Bachelors in Pedagogy, I did an MBA to get into the business world. In my role today I use my business skills and inter-cultural experience to work internationally and my affinity to nature informs my work related to climate change.

When I moved to Switzerland many years ago, I experienced for the first time, male colleagues or management team members directing their attention in meetings primarily to other males and regularly ignoring women, even senior ones. I had worked in the U.S., Germany, Spain and England and it really surprised me. I found ways to ensure I was heard, by asking questions or getting up to speak. I’m always sorry to see that antiquated behavior; leaders need to give women and men equal attention.
 
Smart, confident male leaders in Switzerland today no longer feel uncomfortable paying attention to female colleagues and what they can contribute. To master the challenges of this century we need all the bright men and women working together, side by side

Don’t wait to be asked to contribute and don’t shy away from attention; make sure your bright ideas and smart questions are seen and heard.