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The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova is celebrating the International Women’s Week by interviewing several inspiring women who have passed through our world-renowned MBA programs. These interviews offer a unique perspective on leadership, career development, and the challenges women face in business. The following interview with Yasaman A Farshchi, an alumna from the International MBA 2021 class, will show you the importance of promoting a world where all individuals have access to the same opportunities, rights and resources, irrespective of their gender identity.

Yasaman A Farshchi is a Biotech Product Manager and a Co-Founder of YaraMind, where she aims to bring a new approach to mental health issues. She has previously worked as a scientist both in academia and the biotech industry. Based in San Francisco Bay Area, Yasaman has travelled much of the world, having lived, studied and worked in Iran, Portugal, Germany, South Korea and the United States. Yasaman’s multidisciplinary, multicultural, and multifaceted career has enabled her to foster innovation and succeed in different industries and geographies.

 

 

1 | What does the International Women’s Day mean to you, and why is it important?

“International Women’s Day is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the work that still needs to be done to achieve it. Rather than being celebrated, this day should be one of reflection because although progress has been made in many areas, there are still significant disparities between men and women regarding rights, opportunities, and representation. Observing this day highlights the need for continued action and advocacy to ensure women’s rights are protected and promoted. It is extremely important to ensure that women have the ability to make choices and that gender equality becomes a reality for all.”

 

 

2 | In your opinion, what are some of the biggest challenges that women face today, and how can society address them?

“Gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, lack of political representation, limited access to education in some parts of the world, gender stereotypes, and lack of reproductive rights are some of the challenges that women continue to face today both at the individual and societal level. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort at the individual, societal, and policy levels. This includes creating safe space for women, promoting gender equality in education and the workplace, advocating for women’s representation in politics, and supporting policies that protect and promote women’s rights.”

 

 

3 | Which female leader do you admire the most and why?

“Instead of choosing one leader, I decided to choose Iranian women. “Woman, Life, Freedom”, the world’s biggest women’s rights movement, is happening right now in Iran, being the first revolution led by women and teen girls. They are leading the way in the fight for justice and have been at the forefront of the fight for women’s rights and equality, taking direct aim at the regime’s repressive treatment of women and girls. Despite the danger they face, Iranian women as young as school girls show unprecedented resilience and unity in their demands. They are not backing down.”

 

 

4 | What are some concrete steps that individuals and organizations can take to promote gender equality and empower women in their communities and workplaces?

“Promoting gender equality and empowering women requires a collective effort from individuals, organisations, and governments to ensure that women are able to participate fully in all aspects of society and have equal access to opportunities and rights. Here are some steps that individuals and/or organisations can take;
– Challenge gender stereotypes and bias by promoting diverse representations and going against staid perceptions of gender;
– Promoting equal pay, ensuring that women are paid the same amount as men for doing the same work and that there is transparency in pay structures to prevent gender-based discrimination. It is essential to address the gender pay gap as it perpetuates inequality and restricts women’s ability to achieve financial security and economic independence;
– Help fund education for girls, ensuring quality education and that there are no barriers to their participation, such as discrimination and poverty;
– Address gender-based violence by implementing policies and protocols that protect women from violence and harassment, as well as providing support and resources for survivors;
– Provide training and support to develop skills and career advancement, as well as provide access to resources such as child care and flexible working arrangements. These measures can help ensure women are not forced to choose between their careers and having families;
– Support reproductive freedom is a viral pillar of gender equality. Economic development, educational opportunities, and social progress depend on the right of women to control their bodies;
– Listen, learn and educate yourself and others about issues affecting women. Be an advocate, make sure learning materials represent everyone and so many more steps that can and should be taken.”

 

 

5 | Is an MBA a powerful tool for women’s empowerment?

“It can be powerful in many ways. It could increase career opportunities, opening the door to leadership and top-level positions. Women with an MBA degree can have a significant impact on the business world, including driving change and advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It also provides opportunities to build professional networks, especially valuable for women who may not have as many existing connections in the business world. However, it is important to note that an MBA is not a guarantee of success or empowerment for women. There are still barriers and biases that women face in the business world, and an MBA alone cannot overcome these systemic issues.”

 

 

6 | What advice would you give to young women who are just starting their careers or trying to make a difference in their communities?

“Believe in yourself, and speak up. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back, and use your voice to advocate for yourself and others. Take risks, take a lot of risks and take up space. Don’t be afraid to try new things and change the narratives. Don’t let barriers and biases hold you back. Build a strong network; surround yourself with supportive and encouraging people.”

 

Note: The views, opinions or statements shared in these interviews are those of the alumni or students interviewed.