Why? I have been working in river management since 1996, and over this time I have been involved in many river projects involving different organisations. My experiences lead me to believe that if we valued feminine leadership traits we would achieve more inclusive and longer-lasting river management outcomes.
What did I do? In 2008, I established the Australian River Restoration Centre so that I could lead in my own way. I had experienced government and consulting environments where much was spoken about promoting women, but prevailing structures and attitudes meant that the characteristics defined as ‘leadership’ saw masculine approaches more highly valued. By creating my own organisation I could lead how I wanted to, and use my feminine traits without apology or compromise.
What have I learnt? The approach works - the ARRC has been operating for 12 years and is growing in projects and influence. Our people, both male and female, are encouraged to use their feminine leadership traits of inclusion, emotional intelligence, connection and nourishing. When we are given permission to use these traits we are more effective and happier.
Why does it matter? For women, a valuing of their femininity means that they can capitalise on those strengths to be more influential in male dominated management paradigms. For men, we need to inspire them, their female colleagues and their organisations to value and promote feminine leadership traits and approaches, so that we can broaden and build our river management industry.