Accelerating Action: Why Gender Equality Starts with Stronger Tribal Networks
I am a daughter, a wife, a mother of a brave 12-year-old girl, a curious 9-year-old boy, and a wild 7-month-old staffy puppy. They are my tribe—my people. The ones I show up for every day.
And as I look around at the world we’re shaping for them, one thing is clear: we cannot do this alone.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, #AccelerateAction, is a call to arms—not just for women, but for everyone. It’s about rethinking how we show up for each other, how we support one another, and how we reconnect with the collective spirit that has carried humanity forward for centuries.
Because somewhere along the way, I think we lost that. We’ve become so focused on individual success that we’ve forgotten how to lift each other up. Society has drifted away from its natural instinct to prioritise the tribe over the self. But the truth is, real success—real progress—only happens when we move together.
We are wired for connection, collaboration, and community. When we surround ourselves with people who support and challenge us, we grow. When we build strong networks, we thrive. When we put others first—selflessly, with kindness—we create a better world.
Did you know...
🚀 Economically: Women who have strong professional networks are more likely to advance in their careers. In fact, research from Harvard Business Review shows that women with a close-knit circle of other women are 2.5 times more likely to land high-ranking leadership positions.
🌍 Socially: Tribes give us strength. They remind us that we are not alone. In an age of digital connection, we need real, human connection more than ever.
👥 Personally: The strongest, most successful people aren’t doing it alone. They have mentors, supporters, and champions in their corner. Who’s in yours?
How to Build a Tribe That Supports Change
If we want to accelerate action toward gender equality, we need to rebuild our tribes—strong, supportive, diverse networks that champion each other’s success.
Find Your People
Surround yourself with those who uplift, inspire, and challenge you to be better. Seek out diverse perspectives, make space for different voices, and actively build connections outside of your usual circles.
Give Without Expectation
Tribes work when people give selflessly. Offer mentorship, share opportunities, and open doors for others without expecting something in return. Kindness is a strategy, not just a trait.
Lift as You Climb
Every success you achieve is an opportunity to pull someone else up with you. Networking isn’t just about personal gain—it’s about creating opportunities for those who come after you.
Rebuild Trust and Collaboration
We’ve lost our instinct to put the collective first. It’s time to get it back. Make it a priority to check in on your tribe, support your network, and show up for others in meaningful ways.
Teach the Next Generation the Power of Community
Our children are watching. Let’s show them what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves. Let’s teach them that success isn’t just about individual effort—it’s about the strength of the relationships they build.
If we truly want to accelerate action, we need to stop going it alone and start moving together. We need our tribes. We need to show up for each other, not just when it’s convenient, but because that’s how real change happens.
💜 So today, ask yourself: Who’s in your tribe? Who are you showing up for? Who are you supporting, mentoring, or lifting?
Because together, we rise.
Reach out if I can help you in any way?,
Julia
Julia Palmer a respected Relational Strategist and Chief Executive of Relatus, helping you develop your relational capabilities to give you the human advantage.
Comments