Growing up in a family which gave me confidence that I could become everything and anything, I had big dreams. From becoming the prime minister to being a doctor one day. There was a desire to have some form of power, inspired by the opportunity to change things and have an impact. Sometimes I also ‘just’ wanted to become a mum as I missed mine when she was working. I promised myself that I would be home more often when I have children.

Having learned to stand up for my rights, I was well prepared for salary and promotion negotiations. Sometimes, unfortunately, I didn’t get the same treatment in the negotiation as my male peers, who were asking the same and received a different answer. Until today I am still not sure if I understand the psychological process of decision makers that causes the gender pay gap, but there are some structural issues that need to be addressed. The onus is not on women to negotiate their way out of the pay gap.

Do not be afraid to take on leadership responsibility early on in your career. Leadership is an art that you develop throughout your career and it takes time to develop the skills of inspiring others, unleashing passion and potential, building the self-confidence to establish direction for yourself, your colleagues and your community. Having the responsibility of leadership early increases your understanding of other people’s opinions, teaches you to deal with failure (as you will) and puts a light on your strengths as well as on some of your potential derailers. If you have the opportunity to find your unique skills early in your career it can be a fulfilling journey.