International Women’s Day
The Balancing Act of Women in Business: As Families Grow, So Can Careers
Each year, millions of people around the world pause for a moment to recognise how the role of women in society continues to change and improve, despite hundreds of years of inequality, inequity, and injustice.
As the Dean of Marbella International University Centre, I am proud to share our commitment to ensuring our students have the benefit of the experience, talents, and insights from an extraordinary faculty of women, and men, all whom share a vision for a world where women have the same opportunities to succeed and serve as men.
In fact, on Monday, our annual International Women’s Day address is being delivered by a man who has supported women throughout his career (in largely male-dominated fields).
Tor Svensson, internationally renowned global finance expert and Chairman of Cadogan Capital and Cadogan Energy is scheduled to address the students and faculty at Marbella International University Centre next Monday, March 10, capping off a week of activities associated with International Women’s Day 2025, which falls on Saturday, March 8.
Supporting women – and girls – is everyone’s job, and we look forward to learning more about how Tor’s commitment over the decades to including women at the highest levels in business has been beneficial.
Balancing career progression with family responsibilities is a challenge many women face. The overlap between a woman’s reproductive years and critical career-building years often creates additional pressures. Addressing this issue requires educating both men and women to bridge the gender equality gap.
Historically, women have adapted to male-dominated work environments by mirroring traditional workplace norms. However, true progress requires men to also adopt and appreciate the skills that women naturally bring to the professional sphere.
Education plays a crucial role in this transformation, ensuring that men learn from women’s experiences and perspectives.
The late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg illustrated this imbalance when she recalled:
“When my son was in school, the teacher called me, and I said, ‘This child has two parents. Please alternate calls. It’s his father’s turn.’ After that, the school stopped calling me.”
This anecdote highlights deeply ingrained biases that assume women should take primary responsibility for caregiving. Changing these perceptions requires a fundamental shift in mindset—both at home and in the workplace—so that responsibilities are shared. The key to achieving this is through education, fostering a culture where both men and women actively contribute to a balanced and equitable society.
Women should not compare themselves to others or be judgmental but should instead live in alignment with their own values and integrity.
Supporting fellow professional women and embracing healthy competition leads to collective growth. Those who fear being replaced may be operating from insecurity rather than competence.
True leadership involves hiring talented individuals, encouraging diverse perspectives, and engaging in constructive criticism that fosters progress.
Achieving balance is challenging; it requires constant prioritisation and adaptation.
We have come too far to remain stagnant. Education is the most powerful tool to close the gender gap. Raising children is work that must be shared equitably. Women deserve real choices when deciding to pursue careers, just as individuals without families must also navigate workplace challenges.
Unrealistic expectations of “having it all” simultaneously can lead to disillusionment. Instead, creating supportive environments that offer flexibility and recognition for both professional and personal responsibilities will pave the way for true equality.
