Jamshedpur, India — Women are stepping into leadership roles like never before. However, they often face unique challenges that can hinder their progress. Recognizing this, XLRI recently hosted a three-day leadership program titled “Women at the Helm: Architecting Leadership and Organisation” aimed at empowering senior women executives from NABARD. This initiative is crucial as it addresses the invisible barriers women encounter in the workplace and equips them with the tools necessary for effective leadership.

The program, held from January 14-16, 2026, brought together a select group of women leaders from across NABARD offices in India. With a curriculum designed to foster emotional intelligence and ethical leadership, participants engaged in reflective exercises, case studies, and role-playing scenarios. This hands-on approach not only enhanced their leadership skills but also encouraged them to rethink their potential and capabilities.

As traditional leadership models evolve, the need for ethical and empathetic leadership is more pronounced. The workshop emphasized that leadership is not solely about authority and decision-making but also about responsibility and empathy towards others. This shift in perspective is critical, especially as organizations face increasing social accountability and technological change.

Invisible Barriers and Transformative Leadership

The concept of invisible barriers was a significant focus during the workshop. Drawing from literature like Hélène Cixous’s “The Laugh of the Medusa” and Alice H. Eagly and Linda L. Carli’s “Through the Labyrinth: The Truth About How Women Become Leaders,” the discussions highlighted that women face a labyrinth of challenges rather than a single glass ceiling. This framework encourages women to navigate their paths with clarity and confidence.

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Participants were guided to recognize their collective leadership potential. The program included various frameworks and matrices of leadership and management, helping women executives understand their personal strengths and become effective decision-makers. The emphasis on emotional intelligence and empathetic communication positioned them to lead with compassion and inclusivity.

The program included various frameworks and matrices of leadership and management, helping women executives understand their personal strengths and become effective decision-makers.

Furthermore, the program challenged participants to analyze their lived experiences and uncover the invisible constraints they face. This reflective approach allowed them to question their beliefs and refine their decision-making processes, ultimately leading to more ethical and responsible leadership.

According to Sunil Kumar Sarangi, Program Director and faculty at XLRI, “A leader is less defined by wisdom, charisma, or competence but more by a higher sense of responsibility and empathy towards others.” This perspective is essential as organizations increasingly seek leaders who can connect with their teams and foster a supportive work environment.

As women leaders enhance their skills through programs like these, they also contribute to creating more inclusive workplaces. Organizations led by empathetic leaders are better equipped to understand and meet the diverse needs of their employees and stakeholders.

Key Skills for Future Leaders

To succeed in their roles, women leaders must cultivate a range of skills that are becoming increasingly valuable in today’s workplace. Emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making, and inclusive leadership are just a few of the competencies highlighted during the workshop.

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Here are some actionable steps for women looking to advance their leadership skills:

• Participate in Leadership Programs: Engage in workshops and training sessions that focus on leadership development and emotional intelligence. Programs like “Women at the Helm” can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
• Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced leaders who can offer guidance and support. Mentorship can help navigate career challenges and open doors to new opportunities.
• Practice Reflective Leadership: Regularly assess your leadership style and decision-making processes. Reflect on your experiences and seek feedback to enhance your effectiveness.
• Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with peers who share similar goals and challenges. A strong support network can provide encouragement and resources for personal and professional growth.

However, experts caution that while initiatives like these are vital, they must be supported by organizational policies that promote gender equality. According to a report by McKinsey, without systemic change, the progress made through leadership programs may not be sustainable. Companies need to create environments where women can thrive and advance without facing barriers.

Key Skills for Future Leaders To succeed in their roles, women leaders must cultivate a range of skills that are becoming increasingly valuable in today’s workplace.

The Future of Women in Leadership

As we look to the future, the landscape of leadership is poised for significant change. The emphasis on ethical and empathetic leadership will likely shape the next generation of leaders. Organizations that prioritize these values will attract and retain top talent, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued.

Moreover, as more women ascend to leadership roles, they will serve as role models for future generations. The ripple effect of their success will inspire young women to pursue leadership positions, ultimately contributing to a more equitable workplace.

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Will the commitment to fostering women leaders translate into lasting change across industries? The answer may depend on the collective efforts of organizations to embrace diversity and inclusivity as core values in their operations.