For generations, leadership has often been associated with a narrow set of characteristics – assertiveness, decisiveness, and strategic thinking, traits historically attributed to men. However, research consistently debunks this outdated perception, proving that leadership is not about gender but about vision, resilience, and adaptability. Women bring unique perspectives to leadership, emphasizing collaboration, long-term strategy and inclusive decision-making.
Despite this, systemic barriers persist, making it more challenging for women to ascend into executive roles. Unconscious bias, societal norms, and limited opportunities continue to hinder progress, leading to significant gender disparities in leadership across industries. The gender pay gap, the lack of women in executive roles, and the low representation of women in STEM and industrial sectors highlight the urgent need for change.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Leadership is evolving, and organizations worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of diverse leadership perspectives. Historically, women have faced barriers in ascending to executive roles due to societal norms, workplace biases, and limited career advancement opportunities. However, as awareness grows, efforts to break these barriers have intensified, fostering an environment where leadership is determined by ability, vision and expertise, not gender.
Research highlights that companies with diverse leadership teams experience significant benefits, including higher innovation, stronger financial performance, and improved decision making. Organizations that prioritize gender diversity gain a competitive edge, creating an inclusive culture that supports long-term success.
“I entered the corporate sector at a time when concepts like DEI and the avoidance of gender-based discrimination were far from being widely understood or embraced. Yet, through hard work, commitment, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, I was able to grow and succeed, supported and guided by mentors, many of them men, who recognized my potential and encouraged me to give my best. Today, I believe these principles will continue to add value to our personal growth and success in the business world.”
Jeevani Abeyratne, Director – Finance
As conversations around gender equality gain momentum, businesses worldwide are taking deliberate action to dismantle barriers and foster inclusive leadership cultures. This involves investing in leadership development programs, creating mentorship opportunities, and ensuring fair and transparent career progression policies. These initiatives are not just about representation but about harnessing the full potential of diverse leadership styles to drive success.
Driving Progress Through Female Leadership
“At Haycarb, we believe that empowering everyone drives real progress. Supporting women and embracing varied perspectives help fuel financial excellence and innovation. This commitment to inclusivity and collaboration extends throughout our operations, strengthening Haycarb’s position as a global leader in activated carbon solutions. Our values are rooted in equality, creativity, and continuous improvement”.
Piyumali Premaratne, Senior Manager – Finance
We don’t just talk about empowering women in leadership – we make it happen. From the boardroom to the factory floor, women at Haycarb are leading change, driving innovation, and redefining success in a male dominated industry.
We take pride in our commitment to gender equality and leadership diversity, ensuring that women have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities to excel. Women hold key senior roles at Haycarb, influencing strategic decisions and shaping the future of the industry.
Through structured leadership programs, internal networking groups, and policies that promote professional growth, we ensure that women have the tools and support needed to thrive. Our investment in mentorship and sponsorship initiatives helps women advance into leadership roles with confidence.
Building a Stronger Future Through Mentorship & Development
One of the most effective ways to empower women is through structured mentorship and leadership development programs. Studies show that women with strong mentors are more likely to advance into leadership roles. At Haycarb, we nurture this growth by providing mentorship opportunities, career development programs, and leadership training initiatives tailored to women.
“Empowering women isn’t just about creating opportunities, it’s about guiding and supporting them to seize those opportunities with confidence. At Haycarb, I’ve experienced this belief firsthand, turning potential into achievement and I see it as my responsibility to champion that same belief in others.”
Kalpana De Silva, Senior Manager – Sales & Marketing
Encouraging Women in STEM & Industrial Roles
Innovation thrives in diverse environments, yet many industries still struggle with gender representation, especially in STEM and industrial sectors. Only 3% of young women today pursue careers in these fields, which define the future of technology and sustainability.
At Haycarb, we are committed to changing this narrative by actively encouraging women to take up roles in technology, research, and industrial leadership. We ensure that our workspaces, hiring policies, and career advancement programs support gender diversity in these fields.
“Being a woman leading the IT team at Haycarb, I believe that technology is for everyone. When women are given equal chances and support, they can lead, innovate, and make a real impact. I’m proud to be part of a workplace that values and encourages this.”
Rasika Jayawardena, Senior Manager – IT
Building a Culture Where Equality Thrives
Empowering women isn’t just a statement – it’s a responsibility. At Haycarb, we believe that true change happens when we take deliberate action to create an inclusive and equitable workplace. This means fostering a culture where women are supported at every stage of their careers, from entry level positions to senior leadership roles.
As noted by Brahman Balaratnarajah, Deputy Managing Director of Haycarb PLC,
“In an everchanging and uncertain business environment, the call for more women in leadership is not just a call for gender parity; it is a call for harnessing the full potential of diverse leadership styles. It is an invitation to create workplaces where individuals, regardless of gender, can contribute their unique strengths to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and inspire positive change. Embracing the principles of equality and inclusion in leadership is the path to organizational success and a testament to a more equitable and prosperous future for all. It makes much sense, in order for women to be empowered in leadership roles, the men who currently occupy most of the tables and corridors of power need to be willing to share this power, not just in word but in deed”.
By investing in leadership development, providing mentorship opportunities, and ensuring fair career progression, we enable women to step into roles where they can thrive. Our commitment extends to promoting work-life balance and creating opportunities for women in technical and industrial fields, ensuring they have the same access and encouragement as their male counterparts.
At Haycarb, we don’t just advocate for gender diversity – we actively work towards it every day.
