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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 Filipa Machado Vaz, 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.

Before embarking on her life-changing journey at The Lisbon MBA Católica | Nova, Filipa took several positions in the Portuguese Health sector, having worked in big names such as Hospital de Cascais, Lusíadas Saúde, José de Mello Saúde, and Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses. Filipa also took a key role in managing the Covid-19 pandemic crisis, having worked as Consultant and Operations Manager to mitigate the impact of the pandemic in hospitals across Portugal and the United Arab Emirates. Today, Filipa Machado Vaz works as a Business Consulting Manager – Lifescience and Healthcare at Deloitte.

 

 

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

“International Women’s day is a global day of celebration to recognize the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women but especially to highlight the ongoing struggle for gender equality. The day is also an opportunity to raise awareness for problems that disproportionally affect women, such as gender-based violence, unequal pay and limited access to education and healthcare all around the world. So, it’s the most important remark that there are still a lot of changes that need to be made. It is necessary to recognize that violence and violations of human rights committed against women occur all too frequently around the globe and that everyone—individuals, communities, and governments—must fight to avoid and resolve these problems. Women’s rights are human rights, thus it’s critical to advance gender equality, combat violence and discrimination against women, and give women the tools they need to engage fully in society.”

 

 

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

“Notwithstanding the enormous progress that has been made in recent years toward gender equality, there are still many obstacles that women must overcome today. The following are some of the main difficulties that women face nowadays:

1. Gender-based violence: Domestic abuse, sexual assault and harassment disproportionately harm women. Through increasing awareness, implementing stronger laws and penalties for offenders, and offering victim support services, society can address this problem;
2. Unequal pay: Although doing the same job as men, women still earn, on average less than males. By enacting laws that guarantee equal pay for equal labour, elevating more women into leadership roles, and combating gender bias in the workplace, society may address this problem;

3. The underrepresentation of women in various professions, such as political science and technology. Society may address this problem by encouraging female leadership and involvement and by giving women the chance to enter and progress in industries that have historically been dominated by males;
4. Women still have limited access to education and healthcare in many regions of the world, which can have an effect on their economic, social, and physical well-being. Through funding initiatives for women’s and girls’ health and education, society can empower women;
5. Discrimination and stereotypes: Due to stereotypes and discrimination based on gender, women are frequently subjected to fewer chances and worse self-esteem. By advancing gender equality and dispelling gender stereotypes through media portrayal and education, society may overcome this problem.

Overall, addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from all members of society, including policymakers, employers, educators, and individuals. By promoting gender equality, supporting women’s rights, and challenging gender stereotypes and discrimination, we can work towards a more just and equitable world for all.”

 

 

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

“The Iranian women who are leading the Iranian revolution are the female leaders I admire the most.

Throughout history, Iranian women have participated in revolutions. Women in Iran have less legal protection than men, especially when it comes to marriage, divorce, and child custody. Also, there are limitations on what they can wear and do. Despite having a high level of education, Iranian women frequently experience prejudice in the workplace and are underrepresented in positions of leadership. In the areas of marriage, divorce, and child custody, they also have fewer legal rights than men do.

After the death of Masha Amini, they are again leading the revolution, showing all the World, every day, their strength to fight against the oppressive Iranian government with amazing speechless courage.”

 

 

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 sustained efforts from individuals, organizations, and governments. Some concrete steps that individuals and organizations can take to promote gender equality and empower women in their communities and workplaces include:

1. Educating oneself and others: raise awareness by learning about how gender inequality is affecting women and girls, such as discrimination, gender-based violence and uneven opportunity;
2. Dispelling gender preconceptions: Encourage others to dispel gender stereotypes and prejudices in their own thoughts and conduct;
3. Supporting and promoting women in leadership positions in all spheres, including industry, government, and non-profit organizations;
4. Dealing with pay equity: Promote equal pay for men and women and endeavour to close the gender pay gap in the workplace;
5. Offering support and resources: Work to create a secure and welcoming workplace or community and offer assistance and resources to women who are experiencing discrimination or gender-based violence;
6. Supporting women’s career and educational advancement: Encourage women to take use of networking and mentorship opportunities as well as educational and professional development possibilities.

In general, advocating for and supporting long-term systemic change is necessary to advance gender equality and empower women. We can make the world more just and equitable for everyone if we band together to fight prejudice, support women in leadership roles, and advance equal opportunities and rights.”

 

 

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

“An MBA can be a powerful tool for women’s empowerment, as it can provide them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in the business world. Here are some reasons why:

1. Leadership skills: MBA schools frequently offer training in management and leadership abilities, which can be especially helpful for women who may encounter challenges to leadership roles in industries with a male preponderance.
2. Networking possibilities: MBA programs give students a chance to meet with other experts in their industry, which can be beneficial for women who may not have as many contacts in the corporate world.
3. Professional advancement: An MBA degree can offer up new employment prospects and aid women in advancing in their existing careers, which may result in higher wages and more fulfilling work.
4. Entrepreneurship: Several MBA programs provide tools or seminars for budding business owners. This is especially helpful for women, who may encounter more obstacles in beginning and expanding their own companies.

While an MBA degree is not a guarantee of success, by empowering women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed, we can work towards a more equitable and just society for all.”

 

 

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

“Don’t give up, lead by example, keep strong and other women will follow you and, as Iranian women did, you can really change the world.”

 

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