Norah Perez

Salesforce Practice Manager, VALiNTRY360
Orlando, FL, USA

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Advocate. My team of consultants, our clients, my executive leadership team (and heck, my family and friends) can all tell you that I strive to understand peoples’ goals, dreams, and motivations, and then work on how I can help advocate for them and support them in their journeys. Helping those around me reach their personal and professional objectives and potential has allowed me to establish authentic trust-based relationships, which in turn have positively impacted my life and career.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
I think it’s critical for corporate leaders to prioritize social impact for a variety of reasons, not least of which is the fact that customers, clients, and employees are looking at the impact of companies they’re vetting to give their business to or work for, and making decisions based on whether the companies are forces for good in their broader communities or not.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
VALiNTRY360 has a deep commitment to supporting the communities around us. Each year our team engages in different community service activities as a team and company, for example packing personal care and health packs for the local unhoused population, purchasing and donating bulk food essentials to the Second Harvest Food Bank, donating conference room space to a local non-profit board that supports local youth in the foster care system, etc.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
As a type A person, I’ve always liked to plan ahead and clearly envision my path towards professional growth.

However, early in my career I read a quote by Condoleezza Rice that recommended not holding too tightly onto a rigid plan for your future because some of the best growth comes from veering off of your expected path to seize an unexpected opportunity. Since then, I’ve made it a point to take unexpected opportunities, resulting most recently in leaving a 13-year career in higher education administration and entering into the world of Salesforce consulting. By being open to changing my path, I’ve found a career that I absolutely love, professional growth that motivates me every day, and a company that trusts and empowers me as a woman leader in the tech field.

Not holding too tightly onto a rigid plan for your future because some of the best growth comes from veering off of your expected path to seize an unexpected opportunity.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
I feel that the most impactful way of making today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive to women is to promote and hire women into leadership roles in companies. By doing so women can finally see ourselves represented in leadership spaces, giving voice to our unique contributions as well as our critical perspectives, and increasing our ability to form impactful mentor and advocate relationships at work. I know that my addition as a Latina woman to the leadership team at VALiNTRY360 has brought an entirely new perspective to the executive spaces, helping our company increase awareness and support of issues faced by underrepresented members of our team and field.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Don’t let fear or insecurity get in the way of your success or of your choices. You are enough. You do have what it takes. That voice in your head that’s telling you that you aren’t and don’t is called Imposter Syndrome. It’s lying to you, and listening to it will keep you from reaching the heights you’re destined for.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’m looking forward to starting sessions with a woman-focused executive coach this year, as well as attending a Women’s Leadership Retreat later this year to help me hone my executive presence, set strategic goals to propel my team’s success, and build a network of women leaders who I can be in relationship with and call on in the future.

Mansi Busi

Head of Delivery & Engagement, TechForce Services
Sydney, Australia

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Passionate – I am passionate to really get to know the problem statement of my clients and prospects and provide them with the best solution fit.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Absolutely – Big companies have significant influence and resources, which can be used to drive positive social change. Prioritizing social impact allows big companies to fulfil their corporate social responsibility and contribute to the betterment of society in several ways. It enhances the company’s long-term Sustainability, reputation and employee engagement and retention.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Our Company is very passionate about making sure we are continuously working for social causes – we have worked in Foodbank Volunteering as a team activity (FoodBank is feeding everyday people in need throughout Australia), we have also done a 17kms walk to support Cancer research and St. Martins school. I personally invest a few hours every week on a Friday with my local meals on wheels packaging and delivering food for the aged care community in our council.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t be afraid of change, its only with change comes great possibilities!

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Let’s make more leadership position open and more excepting of women.

For entry level positions let’s create a more encouraging environments for women starting in corporate world with more self development and also technical training in their field.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
It’s ok if you do not know something, there is so much information available today don’t be afraid to pick up something new and learn as you go.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Yes, focus more of personal health and fitness goals and also getting some more salesforce certifications under my belt.

Don’t be afraid of change, its only with change comes great possibilities!

Mitul Patel

Founder & CEO, Creatique Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Ahmedabad, India

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Curious – I am always curious to figure out what can I do to make my customers’ life better. I join in meetings to check-in with customers and resolve their issues and provide them innovative solutions that can help them in their day-to-day functions.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Yes, a Leader is successful when she can pass down the ladder and uplift the life of people in all possible ways.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We provide Free Virtual Salesforce Training to people – currently we are training 10 people. We enable them to become equipped in Salesforce so they get jobs!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t be satisfied with your success!

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Lead by example – the company should have women leaders who practice inclusion along with other leaders within the company.

Women Leaders should be promoted within the company and their ideas should be appreciated in company-wide settings.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Do not stop Learning! Keep going – and you will always get better at what you are.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
So many – hiring at least 10 team members, travelling to Iceland, doing 30 Go-Lives!

A Leader is successful when she can pass down the ladder and uplift the life of people in all possible ways.

Neha Juneja

Co-founder, IndiaP2P

Mumbai, India

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Persistent. I am a serial entrepreneur having built large, social ventures. I see value in building scalable solutions to big problems and recognize that doing so takes time and overcoming many challenges along the way. All revolutions need tenacity and time.

Before starting IndiaP2P, I co-founded Greenway Grameen – India’s largest clean cooking enterprise with nearly 10 million users. Lack of access to clean cooking i.e. cooking on biomass & charcoal is grave health & climate concern and affects nearly 2.5 Bn people globally.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
It’s almost critical for businesses to have a clear, positive impact today. I say critical because its essential to survival. Customers, employees and other stakeholders all expect the time and patronage they give to brands and companies should also lead to positive outcomes for society.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We run and impact driven enterprise. At IndiaP2P our founding thesis is that women business owners are the necessary lever for economic prosperity and social progress. As an organization we unlock capital for women and small business owners by enabling retail investors to invest directly in this asset class.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To consciously try and imagine the future and see how you and your work can help make it better.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
While it may seem a cliche but role models make a huge impact. Having women leaders and operators in the workforce automatically enables more women to join and thrive. Specifically with regard to investing in women owned ventures – I think a lot of work needs to be done for removing biases that exist amongst VC/PE operator.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Visualize your goals and seek help without hesitation.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am very excited about 2024 being the year where IndiaP2P scales to become the largest digital finance provider for women business owners in India.

Visualize your goals and seek help without hesitation.

Savana Maxon

Head of Operations, Lucro Consulting
Boise, Idaho

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Resilient. My journey, marked by overcoming personal adversity, has sculpted me into a resilient individual. Growing up as a survivor of abuse and a former ward of the state, I faced significant challenges. However, each obstacle served as a stepping stone, fortifying my determination and adaptability. For instance, volunteering at FACES Family Justice Center allowed me to channel my resilience into coordinating events and providing child care services, fostering hope and resilience within the community.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Absolutely, prioritizing social impact is crucial for today’s corporate leaders. Beyond contributing to the greater good, it establishes a positive corporate culture and fosters employee engagement. Socially responsible practices enhance brand reputation and create a sense of purpose within the workforce. It aligns businesses with the values of conscious consumers, promoting long-term sustainability.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Yes, giving back is integral to my professional philosophy. At HR Association of Treasure Valley (HRATV), I advocate for and contribute to workforce entry programs for individuals in the foster system. Additionally, my involvement with Meridian Canine Rescue as a board member reflects my commitment to the community’s well-being. One specific experience is coordinating events and providing child care services at FACES Family Justice Center, contributing to the holistic support of survivors. My enrollment in Go Lead Idaho further amplifies my commitment to community impact by providing strategic governance and leadership.

In alignment with my dedication to community service, I am actively engaged with Go Lead Idaho, a nonprofit organization with a mission to motivate women to lead and demonstrate why it matters. Their vision is a state where contributions of women are valued and respected, and more women are influential and visible leaders. Go Lead Idaho fosters women as leaders by providing training, networking, mentoring, and professional and community leadership opportunities. Additionally, it advocates for more women in leadership by engaging partners, publicizing women’s success, and raising awareness of the value of women in leadership. Go Lead Idaho also develops alliances with individuals and organizations to ensure financial viability and increase the visibility of their mission. This alignment with Go Lead Idaho’s mission and strategic goals further emphasizes my commitment to empowering women and contributing to positive leadership development within the community.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The most profound advice I’ve ever received mirrors the essence of sonder – the realization that each passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as my own. In embracing this perspective, I’ve learned the power of empathy, understanding, and the interconnected nature of our human experiences. The wisdom lies in acknowledging the depth within every individual, fostering a world where compassion and appreciation for the unique narratives of others become guiding principles.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
To foster workplace equity and inclusion, it’s crucial to implement mentorship programs that pair experienced professionals with women entering the workforce. Additionally, creating a culture that values diverse voices and perspectives, offering equal opportunities for career development, and addressing the gender pay gap are vital steps. Leadership training programs focused on eliminating biases can contribute to a more inclusive environment. Encouraging open dialogue about workplace challenges and celebrating achievements can further create a supportive and empowering atmosphere.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
For women embarking on their careers, I encourage them to be fearless in pursuing their goals. Cultivate a network of mentors who can provide guidance and support. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and don’t shy away from showcasing unique strengths. Speak up, be assertive, and believe in your abilities. Success often comes from the courage to step outside your comfort zone.

Speak up, be assertive, and believe in your abilities.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am eagerly anticipating the release of the book “Lead Like a Woman – Tenacity,” which I co-authored. Professionally, I look forward to further contributing to Lucro and all of my clients’ success and making a positive impact on organizational outcomes. My enrollment in Go Lead Idaho offers an exciting opportunity to enhance my leadership skills and broaden my network. Personally, I am excited about continued involvement in community initiatives and witnessing the positive change they bring.

Ailsa Blair

Founder & CEO, Drag Me
Vancouver, BC (CA) & Dover, DE (US)

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Empathetic – other people’s experiences matter to me. Whether they’re interacting with me personally, or professionally, I always want to be cognizant of other’s experiences and how they may differ to mine. My aim is to ensure I am creating a safe space for those around me, whether they be friends, family, other professionals or colleagues.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Yes. The world is kind of on fire right now. The last five years alone have seen a shift in social justice. We’re currently witnessing the retaliation of that in the form of discriminatory Bills across all US states. If we don’t stand up and fight now, this will be the start of further discrimination. Banding together to stand up to hatred is vital for our future.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Drag Me is a platform that lets drag enthusiasts easily purchase tickets or merchandise, helps performers showcase their online brand, and provides venue owners with a new channel for promoting upcoming events. We are proud to help improve the economic landscape for 2SLGBTQIA* folks and for drag artists.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My father always taught me to “Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best”, and it’s often allowed me to feel some comfort going into difficult moments that are bound to challenge me.

Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Blind hiring is a great option. Peple.io have “diversity browsing”, which allows hiring managers to view resumes and portfolios without bias. They describe the feature as follows: “We believe that all hiring should be based exclusively on what unique skillset and experiences the candidate has to offer. With our “Diversity Browsing” feature, all names and images are removed from the job seekers profile, thereby ensuring that all candidates are given equal opportunity, regardless of the colour of their skin, gender identity or whom they choose to love.”

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Do not let workplaces, managers, or leaders gaslight you into thinking your own feelings and perception is wrong. Workplaces often have at least a few biases that directly affect their employees, customers, and processes. Find other underrepresented group members that you feel comfortable talking to in these moments. Having a support system at work is helpful in those moments. Surround yourself with people who believe in a equitable company.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Releasing the Drag Me platform to both Fans and Artists prior to Pride season. Being able to interact and serve other fans of drag is a hugely rewarding experience, and unites a few of my major passions into one role.

Marie Berthet

Co-Founder, Nook
Paris, France

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Food. I love cooking (and eating), and I think sharing food is the best way to link with people. I often cook pastries for my co-workers and that’s a way to bring joy to the office (and motivate them to come). I always have some candy’s on my desk, and when I quit my last job my co-workers offered me my favorite candy’s (among many other beautiful things).

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
It is so important to do good for businesses and that’s why Nook decided to participate into Pledge 1% program. The new generation is really affected by what’s happening in the world (global warming, gender equity, racism…), and showing them that their company cares about it and is involved into making things better can make a difference. They don’t work only for money anymore, they need to be part of something.  As leaders, we must show the way and tell them that it is possible to change things and have a positive impact on the world.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We just created Nook this year, so we are still in the process of implementing the best way to give back to the community. We already identify some NGO’s that we’d love to work with, and we are defining the good balance between time and money in order to fits Nook’s convictions. Also as a Salesforce partner, we are really interested into using our knowledge and workforce to provide some CRM to NGO’s as there is a special program for that (NonProfit Cloud).

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Fake it until you make it. Once you get older, you can tell that most of people are doing things without knowing 100% of it. As a women, we are often afraid to take the lead and speak up (unless we are super confident that we know everything on the subject). So the best advice is : you know a good part of the subject that is discussed ? Don’t hesitate to take your part an explain what you think. Most of the people at the table don’t know more than you, so you don’t have to stay behind.

Once you get older, you can tell that most of people are doing things without knowing 100% of it.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Women needs can be different from men needs. We can make small, really practical change, to make sure women feel good at the office. Make sure the heat is enough for women. As a study published in Nature Climate Change in 2015 shows, women needs in average 25°C to feel good instead of 22°C for men (whereas French Government recommended 19°C). We can also provide period day off, for the ones that are experiencing really painful period (and also, put some free pads in the restrooms !).

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Dream Big ! Make sure you are paid as much as your male colleagues, and don’t hesitate to speak up, ask for a raise, ask for a promotion. Don’t let anyone suggest that you won’t be able to do something because you are a women. Be proud of yourself and start building your self-confidence now. Make sure your hard work pay.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’m really excited into Nook’s first year. I hope we will be able to sign great deals, and recruit a great team that will promote equity in any sense and will be happy to work together. And to eat some cakes, of course.

Courtney Vigil

Senior Director of Global Revenue Enablement, Dayforce
Raleigh, NC

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Effervescent – I bring an enthusiasm and zest for life and it’s contagious.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
It is very important for companies to prioritize social impact. I’m proud to say Dayforce, my company, does this through an unlimited time away from work policy as well as volunteer days.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
I served on the advisory board for Women in Sales. I’m a mentor to many women who wish to lead. I’m also an advocate for working mothers on LinkedIn with over 9K people who support my mission.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The pursuit for work life balance is unattainable and will leave you feeling like a failure. Instead aim for harmony with your work and family life.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
This has a special meaning this year for me as I attempted to do the Global Executive MBA program at Duke. I have three children ages 1,4, and 14. I also have a career. The weight of all three responsibilities was too much and I had to end my goal of attaining my MBA at this time. While my workplace was very accommodating, the rigor of my MBA program left little accommodations for my role as a mother. I hope in the future that higher education would provide more accommodations for working mothers.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Don’t be afraid to shine. Bring new ideas forward. Bring your generational strengths to your role. Trade your strengths for someone who is older and learn from each other.

Don’t be afraid to shine.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Searching for harmony in all the roles I have.

Charissa Baute

HR Business Partner, Comnexa

Lisbon area

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
One of the most heartening compliments I’ve received from my friends is being described as someone who exudes a lust for life, embodying the concept of “joie de vivre.” While it might not be a single word, it perfectly captures my philosophy of embracing opportunities with a “why not” mindset.

Over the past year, I set out on a journey to explore 30 new things before turning 30. This endeavor served as a beautiful reminder to keep my heart open to fresh adventures and wholeheartedly say yes to new experiences. It has been a delightful journey of self-discovery and an affirmation of the joy that comes from embracing life’s possibilities.

Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Absolutely! Leading by example is a cornerstone of our values, particularly Trust and Innovation, and I am fortunate to be part of an organization where our partners actively champion social change. The emphasis on social impact not only propels innovation within our company but also motivates us to seek projects and opportunities aligned with that vision. I firmly believe that a steadfast commitment to positive social and environmental practices fosters loyalty and trust.

In today’s complex world, grappling with challenges like climate change, inequality, and poverty, our leaders emerge as influential forces capable of making a substantial impact. By weaving sustainable and socially responsible practices into our business strategy, we can contribute meaningfully to addressing these global issues.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
One of the aspects I truly appreciate about Comnexa is the celebration of individuality in our workplace, which significantly enriches our organizational culture. Here, everyone is encouraged to freely champion various great causes, and it’s heartening to see Comnexa’s support for these initiatives.

The company maintains an open-minded approach to exploring diverse causes that contribute to the well-being of the broader community. Whether it’s backing a local sports team or actively participating in Movember and supporting women’s organizations in Jersey and Portugal, our commitment to making a positive impact is evident and inspiring.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Embrace kindness and the power of presence. Each person is navigating their own journey, and a simple act of kindness can make a profound difference. Be generous with your kindness, and when someone needs your support, be fully present for them.

Embrace kindness and the power of presence.

This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
I strongly believe in the importance of maintaining an ongoing dialogue about these matters, whether it’s with our managers, friends, sisters, or colleagues. Let’s actively foster these conversations and embrace transparency when discussing the challenges we encounter. As an ally, I am committed to ensuring fair pay for women by consistently reviewing and addressing any gender pay gaps within the organization in collaboration with our partners.

Additionally, let’s establish mentorship programs to connect women with seasoned professionals who can offer valuable guidance and support. Let’s also continue on offering flexible work arrangements such as remote work options or flexible hours which helped women juggle their various roles. By championing these initiatives, we can create an inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Seek out a mentor who inspires you and make it a habit to regularly connect with them. This not only broadens your perspectives but also contributes to your growth as a professional.

Remember, your voice matters. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas and thoughts. They have the power to make a meaningful impact. Embrace the confidence to express yourself, as your unique perspective adds tremendous value.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
As I approach the milestone of turning 30, I find myself reflecting on the multitude of experiences that have shaped me. Also, continue in developing a community of women around me as an “expat” in Portugal. I have met so many amazing open-minded women these past few years. The questions and acceptance that we are all seeking for are greatly answered by just meeting with them. While there are still a few adventures left on my 30-before-30 list, I look forward to the personal growth they will bring.

On a professional note, my goal is to further my journey with Comnexa and contribute to the creation of a great employee experience for our team. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead and the positive impact we can make together. Kicking it off with a well-deserved team trip for them all.