She believes that times have changed and that there is now a much more diverse female leadership than in the past.
SANTO DOMINGO.- To be authentic and not be afraid to be themselves, is the main exhortation that Julissa Báez, executive director of the Dominican Association of Portland Cement Producers (ADOCEM), makes to women.
“Authenticity allows our true gifts to shine through, and when you are genuine, this can be a powerful driver of leadership and better connection with others,” this high-end woman emphasizes, while answering questions for El Inmobiliario.
The executive, who has worked at the association for 15 years, believes that times have changed and that there is now a much more diverse female leadership than in the past. “However, it is not enough. There are still too many outdated ways of thinking and policies that must be left behind,” she explains.
In her opinion, the biggest challenge lies in helping women, from wherever they are in their organizations, to increase their self-confidence, their ability to open conversations about their development, and their vision of what they want to become inside and outside the company.
Báez understands that International Women's Day is a good focal point to commemorate the years of struggle, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, for the right to vote, better working conditions, and equality between the sexes.
“And I emphasize the “focal point” because I understand that it should not be a one-day-a-year issue, because female participation and empowerment is something to be implemented day after day.”.
She adds that if this day is used to reflect on the progress made in terms of women's rights, to recognize the persistent challenges and the need to continue working towards gender equality in all areas of society, "then we will have achieved something positive on that day.".
Julissa Báez says she feels fortunate, both personally and professionally, because she feels her role and contributions are properly appreciated. While she has faced obstacles and made significant efforts to achieve her current position, she acknowledges that she has also had many opportunities for training, development, and having her voice heard.
Regarding her position within the company, she believes there's always room for improvement. “The idea of deserving doesn't resonate with me; rather, I would ask if I've earned my position within the company, and the answer is: Yes. I've been with ADOCEM for 15 years in a position that fills me with pride, and in which I've achieved the most important thing: the trust and support of my board of directors. This is reflected in our decision-making, given our understanding of the industry's impact on the country's development, its economic and employment contributions, and the increasing opportunities it provides for women's participation.”.
Regarding the role of women today, she observes that the participation of the female population in all areas of current society has been gaining strength, in terms of gender equality and opportunities, and there is a greater awareness of the benefits of having both sexes within the dynamics of leadership and decision-making in any field.
For her, being a woman is a privilege, because it means being what God created her to be in this world. “This implies the joy of being a daughter, mother, wife, and a whole host of other roles closely linked to our gender, and the privilege of being able to combine them all with grace, strength, and resilience.”.
