A Response to ‘Why We Hate Women”
Over the years, I’ve witnessed the incredible power of sisterhood in the workplace—when it’s at its best, it’s a force that can uplift, inspire, and drive meaningful change. But as much as I’ve seen the strength that comes from women supporting women, I’ve also seen the other side. Unmet expectations, societal pressures, and invisible barriers can sometimes turn this powerful bond into something far less supportive. This duality has always intrigued me, pushing me to dig deeper into why we, as women, sometimes struggle to embrace and uplift one another fully.
Johanna Spiller’s recent post, ‘Why We Hate Women,’ has sparked a critical conversation on this topic, challenging us to rethink how we relate to each other as women in the workplace. Her reflections resonate deeply with me, not only because of my personal experiences but also because of the work I do at 1for2 Social Innovation.
As the founder of 1for2 Social Innovation and a former president of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Netherlands, I’ve had the privilege of leading national conferences and representing our country internationally. These roles have given me unique insights into the challenges women face, not just in the Netherlands but across the globe. Despite our progress, I still encounter situations where, even in environments that advocate for diversity, the preference for male leadership prevails. This was evident when I applied for board supervisor roles—positions for which I am certified—only to see the hiring committee opt for male candidates.
Recently, I led an investment round in a tech hardware startup, collaborating with other entrepreneurs and becoming an advisory board member for the first time, working closely with founders under 30. These experiences have reinforced my belief that while we’ve made significant strides, there’s still much work to be done to ensure that all voices are heard and all talents are recognized.
The Role of 1for2 Social Innovation
These personal insights have profoundly influenced our work at 1for2 Social Innovation. It’s not just about identifying the issues—it’s about creating real, actionable change within organizations. Our services, from leadership coaching to confidential counseling, are designed to address the very challenges I’ve encountered throughout my career. We work to break down the barriers that hold women back, creating spaces where they can thrive, lead, and support one another in meaningful ways.
In 2012, I collaborated with esteemed trainer and JCI alumnus Madelon Barens to develop the Vitale Voeding Voor Vrouwen program (Vital Nutrition for Women) -this initiative aimed to dismantle the invisible obstacles often preventing women from advancing in their careers. We inspired women to take charge of their careers through engaging workshops and thought-provoking discussions, fostering personal and professional growth. However, our commitment at 1for2 extends beyond just supporting women—we strive to create environments where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.
A Broader Vision of Inclusivity
At 1for2 Social Innovation, this dedication to empowering individuals stems from the core of what we do: ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and providing juridical equity for all through what distinguishes us—Attention is our Craft. We believe in fostering open communication and addressing the root causes of toxic dynamics for women and everyone in the workplace. It’s about creating an environment where inclusivity is a lived reality, and everyone feels valued and supported.
My Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, my commitment to empowering individuals in the workplace remains unwavering. I envision a future where the workplace is a space of genuine support and inclusivity, where everyone, regardless of gender, is encouraged to bring their whole selves into the room. This isn’t just about addressing the challenges of today—it’s about laying the foundation for a better, more equitable tomorrow.
At 1for2 Social Innovation, we continue to evolve, finding new ways to support all employees and ensuring that the culture we cultivate is one of true empowerment. Together, we can redefine what inclusivity looks like in the professional world, turning it into a force for positive change that benefits everyone.
Join the Conversation: The challenges of sisterhood and inclusion in the workplace are critical topics that deserve ongoing discussion. We’d love your thoughts on Johanna Spiller’s post and our reflections. How can we continue to redefine and strengthen these bonds in our workplaces?
Connect with Us: If you want to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment in your organization, we’re here to help. At 1for2 Social Innovation, we offer services designed to empower your team and enhance workplace culture. Explore Our Services or Contact Us today to learn more.
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