Be Like a Woman – A programthatshapeswomen leaders

A dry leaf has fallen on the table, the rose is now rejuvenated, spreading its fragrance, always aware that to be a leader there are sacrifices, internal struggles, fears and structural limitations, which, far from diminishing its power, only reinforce it. With this feeling, the “Be Like a Woman” program, launched by Ernst & Young (EY) in collaboration with New Faces New Voices, is reviving in its second edition, continues in full swing and demonstrates at every step that it is no more than a simple training cycle; it is a space where life stories intertwine, where experiences are shared and, above all, where women come together to support each other in their quest for growth and leadership.

Adversiting

In this search, we met Amirah Adam, 34 years old, who still remembers the first time she felt really seen in a professional environment. As the founder of Mira Têxteis, her journey began in advertising, but it was in graphic design that she found her true passion. “When I entered this program, I felt it was an opportunity to connect with other women who are also looking for their space,” says Amirah, with a look that shows her firmness and maturity. “Here, I’m not just a designer, I’m part of a community.”

The transformation Amirah mentions is not limited to the development of professional skills. For many, like Helena FanheiroChicava, a 40-year-old from Sofala, participating in “Be Like a Woman” represents a redefinition of identity. She, who has extensive experience in higher education, decided to change her course and now works as a gender officer in Gorongosa National Park. “The change wasn’t easy. I felt I needed to get out of my comfort zone. Here, I’m surrounded by women who are also facing their fears and challenges,” shares Helena. A living example of this is Celma Elizabeth Menezes, 46 years old, who is a vital force in the program. Born in Maputo and a single mother of two, Celma is the mentor and founder of FaneloYa Mina, a social entrepreneurship project dedicated to gender equality. “I found strength in my struggle and in the mission of building my project,” she reveals. For her, the program is an extension of this mission, a space to learn and share.

“Be Like a Woman made me realize that I can be a leader who transforms not only my life, but the lives of other women,” she says, with light gestures and firm confidence. “Here, we can be vulnerable, share our stories and, at the same time, strengthen ourselves.”

The program’s meetings are full of laughter, tears and revelations. During the workshops, participants challenge themselves to step out of their comfort zones and dream big. As the cycle progresses, the participants acquire knowledge, skills and develop deep friendships.

Gladys Gande, a senior manager at EY and a mentor in the program, understands the impact that female unity can have. “When women come together, they create a safe space to share their experiences, their struggles and their victories. It is in this environment that the most powerful ideas emerge,” says Gladys. She knows that transformation begins with a conversation, with an act of vulnerability.

Gladys is adamant that “we are here to create a future where every woman can shine in her own way. I believethattogetherwe are unstoppable,” shesays.

Edição 85 NOV/DEZ| Download.