"Breaking Barriers Together" The Bold Woman Award - Women Leading the Way
Recognition for Brave Female Pioneers: Celebrating Female Entrepreneurs and Achievers
Join us as we celebrate the 2023 Bold Woman Award by Veuve Clicquot, recognizing women who dare to innovate, lead, and challenge the status quo. With courage, entrepreneurial spirit, and a vision for change, these women are paving the way for future generations.
In this enlightening conversation, we spoke to three powerful women involved in the award. Gülsah Wilke, a partner at DN Capital and co-founder and CEO of 2hearts, is one of the nominees for the Bold Woman Award. Stephanie von Bismarck, activist, author, digital educator, and now podcaster, serves on the award's jury. Diana zur Löwen, content creator, business angel, speaker, and moderator, is also part of the award's jury.
A Focus on Empowerment
Gülsah Wilke, as an investor, what values do you prioritize?
At DN Capital, I'm dedicated to finding dynamic entrepreneurs who have the potential to create the next unicorn. And at 2hearts, I support young people with a migration background in the tech industry. Through leveraging approximately 200 mentors, many of whom also have migration backgrounds, we aim to provide opportunities and resources for those who may have faced barriers in the past. I strive to be the support system I never had, providing guidance and encouragement to others navigating their careers.
Your concept of "Migration Foreground" is unique. Can you explain what it means?
Unfortunately, the specific concept of "Migration Foreground" is not widely recognized. However, it is at the core of the 2hearts Network and Angel Collective. As an alternative to "background," we use "foreground" to highlight the many cultures, languages, and perspectives that every individual brings to the table. We celebrate our differences and view them as a source of strength, driving innovation and collaboration in the tech industry.
Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth
Stephanie von Bismarck, as a podcaster and activist, you've tackled tough topics. What have you learned through your experiences?
I've come to understand that positive change often requires us to face challenges and setbacks. These struggles shape us and enable us to grow. Even if confronting adversity can be difficult, it's important to push through and remain focused on our goals. Awards like the Bold Woman Award are a testament to the great achievements that can come from overcoming obstacles and demonstrating courage.
Diana zur Löwen, as an advocate for women's visibility, what impact has this had on you, despite facing negativity and criticism?
Unfortunately, there's often public scrutiny and judgment based on appearances or voices. However, I've become more confident and self-assured in the face of criticism. I recognize that it says more about the critic than about me. We're all unique, and our imperfections and differences make us stronger.
Paving the Way for Future Generations
What does receiving the Bold Woman Award mean to you?
zur Löwen: This award is especially significant considering its namesake, the widow Clicquot, who bravely ran her family business in a time when women were not typically entrepreneurs. Receiving the award would be an honor, as it acknowledges the struggle women face and encourages others to take charge and lead.
von Bismarck: Choosing a winner from the talented pool of nominees was a challenging task. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal connection and alignment with the project or cause. Each nominee is breaking boundaries and acting as a role model in their respective fields.
Gülsah Wilke, as a successful entrepreneur, what advice would you share with aspiring female founders?
Imagine founding a business is like running a marathon, not a sprint. It's crucial to develop the right network, pursue your passions, and possess self-confidence. Building and nurturing your network is vital, as it helps you access customers, partners, mentors, and financing. The journey can be challenging, but staying true to yourself and focusing on success is key.
Unleashing Our Collective Potential
Mixed networks can offer valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth. Networking events and communities provide females and males the chance to learn from and support each other. While women-only networks can offer safe spaces for addressing specific concerns and issues, it's essential to remain open to collaboration with individuals from all backgrounds.
Awakening Female Leadership
Female leadership often emerges from a sense of community and is characterized by a focus on achieving greater good beyond personal success. Unlike traditional leadership styles, it embraces collaboration, empathy, and a strong desire to create a positive impact.
Knowing your capabilities and leveraging your unique strengths are essential for leadership success. By overcoming challenges and pushback, women leaders inspire future generations to embrace their power and make their mark in the world.
Sources: ntv.de
- Tech Companies
- Start-ups
- Women
- Career
- Award Ceremonies
- Gülsah Wilke, as a nominee for the Bold Woman Award, aims to provide opportunities and resources for individuals with a migration background in the tech industry, using over 200 mentors, many of whom also have migration backgrounds.
- Stephanie von Bismarck, being a podcaster and activist, understands that facing challenges and setbacks is essential for positive change and personal growth, even when confronting adversity can be difficult.
- Receiving the Bold Woman Award would be particularly meaningful for Diana zur Löwen, as it acknowledges the struggles women face in entrepreneurship, similar to Madame Clicquot who ran her family business in a time when women were not typically entrepreneurs.
