Six steps to nurture future female leaders from the classroom

In thinking about this year's International Women's Day theme, 'Fostering Inclusive Inspiration,' I took time to reflect on women's leadership progress. Today, we see female leaders like Elizabeth Stone of Netflix and Lakecia Gunter of Microsoft. Despite some obstacles remaining, it's great to see the notable positive shift towards gender diversity in tech leadership, showing the value of inclusivity in fostering collaborative and innovative organisational cultures.

The advancing of inclusivity in leadership and education is clear, with women leading efforts in the EdTech sector to create inclusive environments for teachers and students. The importance of nurturing a 'girls can' attitude from an early age will empower young women to become future tech leaders. Inclusive leadership not only benefits organisations but also inspires a new generation of empowered female leaders. Studies consistently highlight the value of gender diversity in driving innovation and empathy in workplaces. This emphasis on inclusivity aligns with the evolving dynamics of the tech industry and underscores the need to cultivate supportive environments for women in leadership roles.

Creating a supportive classroom environment is crucial in the journey towards inclusive leadership and empowering girls in tech. We must spearhead initiatives to instil confidence and skills in young girls, laying the foundation for future leadership roles.

Here are six steps to success you can start today:

1) Create lifelong success

Acknowledge and address women's challenges in career decisions but provide a supportive environment for open discussions and diverse aspirations.

2) Positivity boost

Focus on building a positive self-image for girls through supportive communities, mentorship programs, and encouragement of diverse achievements such as football for girls or cooking for boys.

3) Global citizens

Instil compassion and a sense of global citizenship in students by promoting charitable activities, political engagement, and awareness of global injustices. This could be discussing the news. Publications like First News are a great discussion starter.

4) You can't be what you can't see.

Introduce positive female role models by celebrating female achievements. You could ask your class to research and discuss diverse female role models.

5) Empowerment

Creating an inclusive school environment where girls feel comfortable being themselves, learn that failure is sometimes good and why, and develop into well-rounded individuals is crucial for female empowerment and future success.

6) Mental Health

Children's emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health. Good mental health helps them develop resilience and self-esteem, allowing them to become well-rounded, healthy adults. Getting in touch with pupils' mental health also helps teachers improve outcomes.

Teachers grow resilient and forward-thinking female leaders by prioritising inclusivity and empowerment from an early age. The EdTech sector offers many tools to support teachers with inclusivity and wellbeing in classrooms so that it doesn't increase teacher workload.  

As we commemorate International Women's Day 2024, let's commit to nurturing inclusion beyond just one day; let's create environments where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and be future leaders.

By instilling confidence and essential skills in girls, we pave the way for a more diverse and innovative future. Promoting inclusive leadership benefits organisations and inspires the next generation of female leaders. As we celebrate International Women's Day 2024, let's renew our commitment to nurturing inclusion in classrooms, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to excel and lead.

Laura Tristram is a teacher, mental health and wellbeing expert, and AI tech founder of www.lumii.me