Empowering Women in Governance
Yulia Svyrydenko

(Yulia Svyrydenko, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine – Minister of Economy of Ukraine)
Throughout my career, I have had the incredible privilege of interacting with talented women who are shaping our history—military leaders, entrepreneurs, designers, artists, and innovators.
Recently, we launched a direct communication hotline with the Marie Claire Business Ukraine community, and I received numerous inquiries from readers about the soft skills that women in politics and governance should have, especially during wartime.
Here are a few qualities I’ve noticed in the female leaders who inspire me:
1️. Open-mindedness
Successful leaders are willing to embrace new ideas. They actively seek diverse perspectives, which fosters collaboration and innovation. For instance, leaders encourage brainstorming sessions where every voice is heard. They are ready to try something new that no one has tried before.
2️. Confidence and Ambition
These women are confident in themselves and their teams. They advocate for their ideas and support projects that align with their values. They surround themselves with people who share their values, allowing them to trust their teams fully, delegate tasks with confidence, and know that the outcomes will meet or exceed expectations.
3️. Readiness to decision-making and accountability
They are ready to make tough decisions and take responsibility when others may hesitate. This courage to lead, even in uncertain times, sets them apart and drives meaningful change.
4️. Systematic approaches
They tackle challenges with a structured mindset, recognizing that even the most exceptional talent can falter without self-organization. They meticulously plan each step of their projects, understanding that a project that is only 99% complete is still unfinished. This dedication to detail ensures that they achieve their goals effectively.

5️. Hard work and self-discipline
The women I admire are incredibly hardworking and proactive. Their schedules often extend beyond the typical workday, balancing multiple responsibilities.
I’ve seen them working late into the night to prepare for crucial meetings, demonstrating their commitment to their missions. They are often strict with themselves, never allowing the thought that something is impossible. Everything is possible—it’s just a matter of how much time and effort you need to invest.
As I engage with younger women seeking to make their mark in government and politics, I see a growing demand for empowerment and mentorship.
This reinforces the importance of our initiatives to support women through grant programs, legislative changes, and our “Of Course. You Can” information campaign.

Sharing experiences and mentoring one another can strengthen our community and help us overcome our fears together.
I invite you to share your thoughts on what other soft skills are crucial for women in politics during these challenging times.

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