Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of telling Sharon Naidoo’s story many times. Each time, I discover something new about this incredible woman – a leader whose career spans more than two decades, and whose impact reaches far beyond the boardroom. Sharon is a force of nature, a mentor to many, and someone I’m proud to call a friend.
Sharon’s leadership journey is one of intentionality and passion. She’s always looking for ways to make a deeper impact, whether it’s through mentoring others, driving cultural change, or pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in finance.
Research has shown that women leaders who embody feminine qualities, such as empathy and collaboration, often create more inclusive and high-performing teams.
Her approach to leadership is rooted in authenticity and empathy, values I and many other women hold dear. Sharon leads with her heart, creating environments where people can bring their whole selves to work. She’s a disruptor in the best sense of the word, always challenging the status quo and encouraging others to do the same.
During one of our interviews, Sharon shared how her black stiletto heels hold a special place in her heart. She views them as a symbol of her femininity and is her way of staying true to herself in a male-dominated industry. And, the red lipstick she always wears embodies her passion and, at times, her rebellious spirit.
Tapping into your feminine energy
These items are more than just a fashion statement, they’re a reflection of the woman she is proud to be and her way of tapping into her feminine energy.
Feminine energy encompasses a range of attributes that are often associated with traditional notions of womanhood. In many ancient societies, feminine qualities were revered and seen as essential to harmony and balance. For example, in Ancient Egypt, goddesses like Isis symbolised wisdom, nurturing, and protection. In Hinduism, the goddess Shakti embodies dynamic feminine energy that is both creative and destructive.
During the medieval period, feminine qualities were often idealised in literature and art, but women’s roles were restricted, and the virtues associated with feminine energy were sometimes overshadowed by male dominance.
In the contemporary era, there has been a resurgence in recognising and valuing feminine qualities. Movements towards gender equality, like sharing stories, have highlighted how these traits contribute to more holistic and inclusive approaches in various fields.
However, women continue to face significant challenges in contemporary society, which can impact their personal and professional lives. Women often encounter disparities in pay, opportunities for advancement, and representation in leadership roles. This discrimination can also be subtle, such as the prevalence of microaggressions and stereotyping.
Harnessing feminine energy can be a powerful strategy to overcoming these challenges.
Women can use their intuition to make informed decisions and navigate complex situations with greater confidence and agility.
By cultivating self-awareness, women can better understand their strengths and areas for growth.
Empathy fosters strong relationships and networks, which are crucial for personal and professional support.
Nurturing qualities can be used to mentor and support others, creating a positive ripple effect in both personal and professional settings.
By standing up for oneself and others, women can drive systemic change and create a more supportive environment for future generations.
One of the feminine qualities that sets Sharon apart, is her ability to connect with others on a deep level. Whether through mentorship or personal interactions, she makes an effort to truly understand and support those around her. Sharon’s conversations are not just about advice but about genuine connection, where she listens, empathises, and motivates.
Today, as we work together on The Enlightened Girl, I see how her journey continues to inspire and empower women to embrace their true selves and share their stories. The blog is a natural extension of who she is – it’s a movement to inspire and empower women to share their stories, to be unapologetically themselves, and to embrace their strengths. Through this platform, we aim to create a space where women from all walks of life can come together, share their experiences, and find support and encouragement in each other’s stories.
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