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International Women’s Day 2022 Spotlight: Sherine ElKadi & Francoise Lawrence

International Women’s Day is all about celebrating the achievements, hard work, and daily dedication of women across the world, both professionally and personally. In the spirit of this global movement, we are dedicating the Incorta blog to our amazing women colleagues this week and highlighting 10 individuals in the U.S. and Egypt in a series of daily spotlights. 

Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.  

– @WomensDay

 

Here’s a look at two remarkable women who play a major role in Incorta’s success: 

 

Sherine.Elkadi_IWDBlogGraphic_V2

What is the one idea you live by every day? 

Make a difference and be of value to family, friends, work, and community.
 
What is one skill or attribute you feel is important for an effective leader to have? 
Leading through values with no compromises (integrity, trust, empathy, respect).
 
If you were giving a TED Talk, what would it be on? 
Resilience on an individual level and as a team. We face lots of challenges and setbacks everyday. The most important thing is to learn, reflect, and get back on track again.
 
What do you think the importance of promoting Women in Tech is? 
For years, the perception of women in the workplace, especially in tech, has been underestimated. However, women in tech all over the world are proving each and every day that they can be part of the movement and take leadership roles as equals to men. I was humbled that I represented Women in Tech in two conferences sponsored by UN Women in the Middle East to talk about challenges and how IT companies and labor regulations are encouraging women as an important partner in tech.
 
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a celebration & inspirational day for all women of achievement.
It is a day to remind all women & young girls that they can &  have great value,  to get inspired by other women leaders across the world. 
 
What do you think is the importance of promoting female leadership? 
Women are great leaders by nature when they are empowered and given the chance to lead. Women have always managed family and work, and advancement in their careers — side by side with great stamina, perseverance, empathy, mentorship, and team spirit. They become role models within their organizations and community — encouraging, inspiring, and mentoring young girls to find their passion.
 
 
 
Francoise.Lawrence_IWDBlogGraphic_V2
 
 What is the one idea you live by every day?
One day at a time, one thing at a time, one moment at a time.
 
If you were given the chance to go back in time and tell your younger self one thing, what would it be? 
There will always be a lengthy to-do list; it’s okay to relax and rest while you still have to-dos.
 
Can you tell us about a woman in your life who served as an inspiration to you? 
My mother has always been an inspiration to me from a young age. She is an amazing woman who always balanced career and family, and still found time for social causes. She is a great leader and makes a difference in her community. She continues to live independently at the age of 86.
 
If you were giving a TED Talk, what would it be on?
My talk would be on breaking the cultural taboos of not being stereotypical to your culture. In fact, I am writing a book and soon hope to publish it as well as give TED Talks on the content of my book.
 
What is the one value you live by every day?
Do whatever it takes.