Introducing IOM International Women's Day campaign: "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress for Gender Equality and Safe Migration."

On this special occasion, we're thrilled to spotlight three remarkable women: Tamara Srzentić, Andrijana Paljušević, and Mary Nikezić. Originating from Montenegro, these impressive women are not just leaders in their respective fields, but they're also catalysts for change and champions of gender equality. Through their work, they inspire our society and demonstrate the power of determination, resilience, and innovation. As we celebrate their achievements, let's join hands in supporting women change makers among the diaspora, empowering women, and fostering a more inclusive world for all.

Dive deeper into Tamara's inspiring story and insights in her full interview. 

 

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1.  As someone with experience both in the diaspora and in serving as a Minister in the Montenegrin government, what inspired your return to Montenegro?

I left Montenegro when I was 16 years old and lived in Asia, Europe and USA for the past 25 years. I was privileged to be able to work at the highest levels of the USA government and I also dedicated most of my free time serving on many nonprofits and boards that supported marginalized individuals navigate bureaucracy and meet their needs. This journey in public services space led me to a realization that this is where one could truly make a difference. I believe that - to make the government work well for everyone, while often the most challenging, is also the most rewarding and meaningful mission in the world.

Throughout my public service career, I've cultivated bridges and learning spaces between my teams in the USA and government teams in Montenegro and Europe. When the government in Montenegro changed in 2020, I was presented with the most rewarding opportunity - to come back home and serve my home country, and my people.

I lead with inclusivity, humility, and kindness, and at the heart of my mission has always been to uplift others around me and intentionally create a culture of learning and psychological safety, with values grounded in inclusion, equity, openness, designing for ownership and outcomes, results vs optics, abundance rather than scarcity and celebrate failure on a path to success. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve my country, join superpowers with my amazing teammates at the ministries of Public Administration, Digital Society and Media and our partners inside and outside the government. I’ve grown so much as a human and as a leader as I’ve learned so much from each and every one of them, as well as from some of the most challenging experiences we’ve faced and overcame together.

2. In your roles focusing on digital transformation and innovation, how do you believe technology can be leveraged to empower women and promote gender equality, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors? 

Digital equity is not just morally right but also an economically sound goal. Women's lack of access to digital tools and education not only limits their individual opportunities, but also hinders the growth and innovation of the entire digital economies. When implemented purposefully and intentionally, technology can serve as a catalyst and an equalizer, creating inclusive environments where women can thrive. The ability to work remotely, facilitated by technology, is a significant stride towards flexible workplace arrangements, removing obstacles that have historically hindered women in balancing work and family responsibilities.

Technology can also act as a powerful amplifier, elevating voices that may have been overlooked. Taking AI as an example: in our rapidly evolving digital era, artificial intelligence is more than a transformative force; it's fundamentally altering our perceptions and interactions. The biases present in AI, whether subtle or overt, aren't mere glitches but mirrors reflecting our shared history, biases, and oversights. It's time for AI to not merely mirror our reality but to proactively contribute to envisioning and reconstructing a more equitable world. We need to seize this moment to shift AI from a digital tool to a catalyst for social change. The potential of unbiased AI is limitless, influencing everything from education systems that adapt to every learner’s needs to the inclusive hiring practices that see beyond demographics to the heart of talent and potential.

Beyond AI, to leverage technology for gender equality, several key strategies can be implemented. Online platforms and digital tools should be harnessed to provide accessible skill development programs, narrowing the gender gap in industries like technology. Establishing digital mentorship programs and online networking platforms, enabled by technology, can foster connections and support networks, breaking down geographical barriers. Finally, the development of flexible and inclusive online learning platforms accommodates diverse learning styles, catering to the varied needs of women entering or advancing in underrepresented industries. This collective effort could shape a future where technology serves as a catalyst for social change and equality, ensuring a more inclusive and fairer world for generations to come.

3. In your opinion, how can governments and international organizations better support women who choose to return to their home countries after living in the diaspora, particularly in terms of economic opportunities and social integration?

Governments and international organizations can significantly enhance support for women returning to their home countries by implementing policies that prioritize economic/impact opportunities and social integration. Throughout my living abroad, I always wanted to give back and contribute to my home country Montenegro, but I wasn’t sure where to begin. This motivated me to build a Rebel Alliance, an open civic org/network that connects leaders dispersed all around the world with governments, nonprofits and civil society orgs in their home countries and beyond. This is an opportunity for them to plug back in and contribute to/ give back to their home country, even remotely.

I came back home with huge enthusiasm and desire to give it my all and help drive positive change. After living outside of Montenegro for 25 years, I was challenged with both Montenegrin language and cultural proficiencies. Most of my friends and network was spread out globally, and I had a limited number of people in Montenegro I could turn to for advice and support.

Reflecting on these experiences and considering the challenges faced by other women who have returned to their home countries, it's evident that economic and social empowerment programs tailored to returning women would be immensely beneficial. These programs may encompass financial incentives, access to funding, and entrepreneurial support to help them launch businesses. Ensuring equal access to education and training programs enables women to adapt to evolving industries. Recognizing and addressing biases in the workplace is crucial for a fair and inclusive environment. Also, fostering a supportive community and dismantling cultural biases and barriers would enhance social integration, allowing returning women to contribute significantly to their home countries' development.

4. Drawing from your experiences in both California and Montenegro, what lessons have you learned about fostering an environment that encourages women's participation in leadership roles and ensures their voices are heard in decision-making processes?

Reflecting on my experiences both in the USA and Montenegro, I've learned invaluable lessons while trying to dismantle old paradigms, foster environments that encourage women's participation in leadership roles and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes. I believe that equality and equity is a choice. Because, when we create a workplace and a society where women can lead and flourish, everyone wins. Despite women entering the workforce at the same rate as men, the staggering statistic reveals that less than 10% of Fortune 500 CEOs are women.

The changes that need to happen for a more equal executive workforce can start with something as simple as more inclusive ED job description language! Instead of perpetuating the status quo, if we want to reimagine leadership and culture of any workplace we must rewrite norms, structures and job descriptions that have been historically written by men, for men’s led workplaces. Building a diverse leadership pipeline requires questioning the conventional and creating opportunities tailored to individual strengths.

Companies need to also reassess how they evaluate performance and potential, questioning if they are merely adhering to traditional qualifications designed by and for men. I’m recalling a study that revealed that only a third of respondents believed women have sufficient opportunities to advance to executive positions. Surprisingly, the same poll highlighted those numerous traits associated with effective leadership, such as accountability, fairness, and empathy, are commonly found in female leaders. Women in the organizations are also often the ones who are intentionally shaping thriving organizational cultures that lie in its commitment to employee well-being, growth, and freedom. They have positioned mindfulness programs to flexible schedules, prioritizing well-being as a strategic investment in retention and productivity. So, the values and skills that make good leaders are skills that many women tend to possess, but there’s still a disconnect because women often lack opportunities to move into senior-level roles. Likewise, it's crucial to deliberately seek out opportunities for women displaying potential and provide them with stretch assignments, even if their current position or background doesn't perfectly align. These strategies are essential steps towards nurturing the pipeline of female executives necessary for our organizations' success.

5. As a woman who has navigated male-dominated fields and held significant leadership positions, what advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue careers in technology, innovation, or public service?

Navigating the tech, innovation and public service world as a woman has been a very fulfilling journey for me, and I'd encourage aspiring young women leaders to consider this path. Despite the gender gap, these industries offer several advantages, including a relatively small income gender gap, generous pay for roles like software engineers, flexibility in work hours, and the option to work remotely. One of the exciting aspects of the tech field is its adaptability to diverse interests, allowing individuals to combine their passion for various subjects like music, sports, biology, or charity, etc./with their tech careers.

My advice is to dive into hands-on projects to enhance learning. Don't be intimidated by apparent expertise—asking questions is a powerful way to learn and grow. While encountering sexism is unfortunate, the field of product management or engineering, as examples. provides the opportunity to prove ideas through tangible accomplishments. Overcoming naysayers and choosing environments wisely, particularly those fostering meritocracy, can contribute to a positive experience. And targeting projects aligned with personal interests and passions is the key.

My message to girls or women navigating male dominated society and industry, more generally, is rooted in resilience and authenticity: Believe in yourself. Own your strengths and never let anyone undermine your capabilities or define your worth. Lean in on what energizes you, your unique talents, and superpowers.  In challenging situations, push back. Show up and be seen - speak loudly *even when your voice shakes. * Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Surround yourself with a supportive network of women (mentors, sponsors, your personal Board of Directors) who uplift you and each other and will shout your name out loud in the rooms of influence.

Be - You. Your uniqueness and authenticity are your greatest assets. The journey of many successful women in tech, innovation, and public service attests to this belief, and fostering self - discovery, learning and investment is a key to your success and happiness.

6. In your opinion, what are some effective ways individuals, communities, governments, and diaspora can invest in women to accelerate progress towards gender equality and ensure safer migration experiences?

I’ve already shared a lot previously regarding the role communities, governments and diaspora should play to accelerate gender equality. In my closing words I’d like to reflect on some deeply rooted social & cultural tendencies, biases & norms (that transcend regions, cultures and societies) and are preventing women to get ahead:

𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙮𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙚 - A silent struggle for many brilliant women, often leads us to second-guess ourselves & playing small. It's time to break free, stand in our power, & claim our well-deserved seats at the table.

𝙁𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙮 - Imagine a world where girls can embrace failure as boldly as men do & still thrive. The frustration is real when we witness men failing upward, & sometimes, completely blowing it up, without consequences, thanks to a system that has their back.

𝘼𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙎𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙙 - A woman alone has power; together - we have impact. There is a seismic shift in the way women see one another. A decision we’ve made to stop silencing, side-eyeing & side-lining each other’s successes. We've committed to supporting, celebrating, & amplifying each other's voices in every sphere of influence. Traditionally, we were encouraged to compete for limited top-tier opportunities, assuming scarcity in the job market. However, it's evident that this approach isn't effective. The real game-changer lies in lifting each other up and harnessing the strength of collaboration. This collaborative spirit not only transforms the equation but also makes the journey more enjoyable. Together, women in tech, innovation, public administration and across various sectors can work towards narrowing the gender gap and fostering a more inclusive and supportive professional landscape.

I've grown weary of the plethora of well-intentioned but not ultimately very actionable – talks, pledges, MOU signings, ribbon-cutting events —aimed at addressing gender disparities. Instead of focusing on the form and optics, it's time for action. Let’s shift our energies from talking to more action and doing. It's time to roll up our sleeves and dive into the real work that will bring about meaningful change and close the gender equality gap.

𝙈𝙮 𝙒𝙃𝙔? Clearing hurdles and lifting girls & women in the Western Balkans & globally. Connecting them with skills, mentors, support, & opportunities they need to unlock their boundless potential.

Happy International Women’s Day, today and every day.

 

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For more information, please contact Edina Osmanović, tel: +382 68 865 005, email: eosmanovic@iom.int