In our exploration of gender issues in corporate settings worldwide, we delve into strategies aimed at fostering diversity and equality in leadership. We assess the impact of pregnancy, caregiving responsibilities, menopause, and other diversity criteria on women’s career trajectories. Key questions include whether parenthood impedes progress, if caregiving disproportionately affects women, and whether menopause has historically been overlooked. We also examine how aging is perceived in the workplace and whether corporations value experience over age. Additionally, we acknowledge that gender is just one facet of diversity, touching briefly on other areas like neurodiversity, age, and race.

Our panel discusses evolving policies and legal frameworks promoting gender diversity globally, alongside successful corporate strategies for advancing women in leadership. By spotlighting effective approaches and best practices, we aim to bridge the gap between the fairytale of diversity and the reality of achieving equal success for all.