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AS/COA WHN 2022: The Power of Women's Representation

Panelists discussed and shared examples of ways companies could increase the number of and retain women in the workforce.

Speakers

  • Jeannine Acevedo, Partner, White & Case LLP
  • Ambassador Maria Nazareth Farani Azevêdo, Consul General, Consulate General of Brazil in New York
  • Michelle Gadsden-Williams, Managing Director & Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, BlackRock
  • Julianne Canavaggio, CEO Latin America (Ex. BraMex) (Moderator)

“If this career is not for women, this has to change,” said Ambassador Maria Nazareth Farani Azevêdo of the Consulate General of Brazil in New York to start the first panel during the 11th Annual AS/COA Women's Hemispheric Network Conference. She explained that representation allowed her to lift other women up the ladder.

Women are at a disadvantage when it comes representation and networking opportunities throughout their careers, and Julianne Canavaggio, CEO of Lazard, asked the speakers to reflect on what representation means to them. “I think we can get women in the door. What you do with them while they're in the door is really at the heart of the conversation,” said Michelle Gadsden-Williams of BlackRock. She added that women should feel valued and have mentors at their respective companies.

The panelists also offered advice for creating networking opportunities, how to make networking a part of your job description and enjoying the art of discussion. "Be yourself, a woman," concluded White & Case's Jeannine Acevedo.

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