International Women’s Day with Natalia Framil, Amazon

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

Today, women have enormous potential to impact the modern world through their ideas and contributions to the ways we work, live and improve as a global society. Yet, today women still have to fight every step of the way to be heard, accepted, respected and celebrated. In my work, I try to intentionally support gender diversity, equity and equality through hiring, leadership support and opportunities because I had to struggle through those issues, often alone. This event helps promote visibility for women and helps drive gender equity.

What motivates you to be a leader in your industry?

Being from a different country (Kazakhstan) and continent (Central Asia), I had to break through many cultural and gender challenges and ceilings every step of the way, which gave me courage and feedback on what’s possible if you really want it and believe in yourself. As a leader, this unique experience allows me to empower others and scale the bigger impact through both professional business outcomes as well as the teams that I’ve built and nurtured.

Are there any female leaders that have inspired you throughout your career?

I had several inspiring female leaders, including Debbie Landers (GM), Aastha Gaur and Suzanne Pellican (Google). They too had a similar experience with paving their way on their own, and their support and advice were invaluable to me.

What advice or message would you share with young women who are looking to build their careers?

Know your unique value, believe in yourself, build your tribe, don’t give up, find great mentors and use your superpowers to drive impact and diversity of thought – it’s so needed!

Read the rest of our International Women’s Day blog series here.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•