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Dawn Christine: Pioneering Innovation in Architecture<br>
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Strategies for Advancing Your Career A Guide for Women in WWW.CIOWOMENMAGAZINE.COM | MAY 2024 Management Pg. 38 Big Ben: The Heartbeat of London Chiming through the Echoes of History Pg. 30 Woman: Ellyse Perry The Versatile Sports Pg. 10 Dawn Christine Pioneering Owner Dawn Christine Architect PLLC INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN In Business To Look Out For In 2024 Pioneering The Most INNOVATION IN ARCHITECTURE
“I think the best role models for women are people who are fruitfully and condently themselves, who bring light into the world.” — Meryl Streep Beyond the Boundaries! In a world where the boundaries of opportunity are constantly expanding, it's imperative to recognize and celebrate the trailblazers who are shaping the landscape of business today. Our latest issue of CIO Women Magazine is dedicated to honoring the most inspirational women in business, individuals whose vision, resilience, and leadership are propelling industries forward and breaking barriers along the way. As we step into 2024, it's evident that the traditional narrative of corporate leadership is undergoing a profound transformation. Women across the globe are seizing opportunities, challenging norms, and redefining success on their own terms. From tech innovators to sustainability champions, our curated list of influential women showcases the diverse talents and perspectives driving change across various sectors. Within these pages, you'll find compelling stories of perseverance, innovation, and triumph. We delve into the journeys of women who have overcome adversity, shattered glass ceilings, and paved the way for future generations. Their experiences serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the limitless potential that exists within each of us. On the cover, we have featured the inspiring story of Dawn Christine (the Owner of Dawn Christine Architect PLLC). Known for her experiential approach to architecture, Christine crafts spaces that transcend traditional aesthetics, offering a harmonious blend of form and function that resonates deeply with clients’ aspirations. Her firm’s commitment to understanding and transforming the human experience through architectural design sets her apart as a luminary in the field. We invite you to join us on this journey of inspiration, empowerment, and transformation. Together, let's amplify the voices of women in business and champion a future where talent knows no gender. As we look ahead to the year 2024 and beyond, let us draw inspiration from the extraordinary women who continue to shape the world of business and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Utkarsh D.
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COVER STORY 20 Dawn Christine
First Lady Women 10 The Versatile Sports Woman: Ellyse Perry Monuments 30 Big Ben: The Heartbeat of London Chiming through the Echoes of History Article 38 Strategies for Advancing Your Career A Guide for Women in Management
ellyse perry Eyse Perry SPORTS WOMAN THE VERSATILE 10
ellyse perry CIO Women Magazine | 11
Eyse Perry I given to me in my life, what opportunities I’ve had, and the lessons I’ve learned about myself and about life.” Ellyse Perry’s Early Life Ellyse Alexander Perry was born on 3rd November 1990, in the family of Mark and Kathy Perry in the suburb of Wahroonga, Sydney. She completed her schooling at Beecroft Primary School and participated in various sports like tennis, athletics, touch football, and golf. She completed her graduation from Pymble Ladies' College, where she was sports captain as well. She spent her childhood playing cricket with her older brother in her backyard, where he used to practice for school cricket. She said that her father and brother inspired her to choose the sports industry. Mark Perry was a club-level cricketer and used to teach her to play. Apart from her father and brother, watching sports also played a big role. She said she loved watching Australian teams play both men and women while growing up. “I know what sport has In 2018 on her X handle, while answering her fans, she said, “I was fortunate to be born in an area when the Australian team was so successful. Those were the days of Steve Waugh, Rickey Ponting, and Adam Gilchrist, Lisa Sthalekar, Belinda Clarke. They used to play for Australia and were just amazing to watch. I don’t really know why I picked No. 8 as my jersey number. I think I was just given it actually, but I don’t like odd numbers, so as long as it is an even number, I don’t mind what number it is.” The Rise of the All-Rounder Ellyse Perry, a renowned Australian cricketer and soccer player, has won the hearts of many with her exceptional sporting skills from her early teenage days. She was the youngest cricketer to play in international cricket and her passion for the sport and versatile skills led her to where she's today. In this article, we will learn about her life, challenges, and accomplishments. Ellyse Perry made her international cricket debut for Australia in 2007 at the age of 16, before even playing at the senior domestic level. Initially, Perry filled the gap left by retired fast bowler Cathryn Fitzpatrick. However, she also had a promising soccer career and represented the Matildas. Eventually, she committed to cricket when Cricket Australia offered her a contract in 2008. Despite this, Perry continued to represent Australia in World Cup football, becoming the first woman to represent the country in World Cups in two sports. She even played for Sydney FC in the Women's League. 12
Eyse Perry Perry made headlines even before her Test debut in 2008. Her impressive performance in a T20I match against England, where she scored an unbeaten 29 and took four wickets, helped Australia secure a victory. Initially, her bowling skills stood out, as she achieved her first five-wicket haul in an ODI against New Zealand in February 2010. Perry continued to excel, leading the Australian team as their top wicket- taker in the Women's World T20 in the Caribbean. Her outstanding performance in the final, where she took three wickets, played a crucial role in restricting New Zealand's run chase. Perry also played a vital role in Australia's four consecutive World Cup victories, with her heroic performance in the 2013 Women's World Cup final against West Indies, where she bowled 10 overs and took three wickets despite being injured and in pain. Between 2014 and 2019, she achieved remarkable results in the Ashes, including a double century in Sydney and another century in Taunton. In 2015, she contributed immensely to Australia's Ashes victory by taking nine wickets, even though she missed out with the bat. Perry's batting skills reached new heights in the latter part of the decade, making her a consistent and reliable run-scorer for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash. Everything seemed to be going well for Perry's participation in the T20 World Cup on home soil in 2020. However, during a group match against New Zealand, she suffered a severe hamstring injury, which forced her to miss the knockout stage of the tournament. Nonetheless, she stood with her team as they lifted the trophy in front of 86,000 cheering fans at the MCG. CIO Women Magazine | 13
Her Victories and Awards Throughout the Year Ellyse Perry has won numerous awards in her sporting career, both in cricket and soccer. Here's the list of the awards. Year Award Won Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award 2017, 2019, 2020 2019 ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2011–2020 ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade 2011–2020 ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer in the World 2016, 2019 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Player of the Final 2010 Women’s Ashes Player of the Series 2013–14, 2015, 2019 2016, 2018, 2020 Belinda Clark Award 2020 One of the ve Wisden Cricketers of the Year Women’s National Cricket League Player of the Tournament Women’s National Cricket League Player of the Final Women’s Big Bash League Player of the Tournament 2015–16 2008–09 2018–19 2015–16, 2017–18, 2018–19 Belinda Clark Medal Cricket NSW Rising Star 2007–08 Sydney Sixers Player of the Season 2017–18, 2018–19 Sports NSW Athlete of the Year 2019 Australia Post Legend of Cricket 2021 W-League Young Player of the Year 2009 Canberra United Player of the Year 2009 14
Ellyse Perry as Author: Her Interest In Writing Ellyse Perry, apart from being a renowned sports personality, received approaches for her autobiography and proceeded to publish a book 'Perspective' in 2019. Perspective covers the experiences of Ellyse Perry as an elite female athlete and her life. In an interview with Vogue, she said, “Initially I was a bit reluctant to do it, I didn’t really want to write something about my life story. I’ve kind of had a pretty smooth sailing journey.” She also added that, “I started to think that [it] would be really cool because I don’t think there are heaps of female athlete books out there like that, so I kind of got excited about it. We sat down and discussed some concepts and came up with a collection of short essays.” Before her biography, she always had an interest in writing and had published four children's books with Sherryl Clark, namely, • • • • Ellyse Perry 1: Pocket Rocket (2016) Ellyse Perry 2: Magic Feet (2016) Ellyse Perry 3: Winning Touch (2017) Ellyse Perry 4: Double Time (2017) Interesting Facts About Ellyse Perry Ellyse Perry is truly unique in the world of sports. She is the only cricketer who has represented Australia in both the Cricket and Soccer World Cups. This shows her incredible ability to excel in two very different sports. Ellyse Perry made history as the first female cricketer to accomplish an amazing feat in T20 Internationals. She scored 1,000 runs and took 100 wickets, showcasing her incredible talent and skills in the shortest format of the game. In addition to her achievements on the field, Ellyse Perry's impact reaches beyond cricket through endorsement deals with top brands like Adidas and Mastercard. These partnerships highlight her popularity and appeal, not just as a cricketer, but as a marketable figure. Ellyse Perry achieved an incredible milestone in Test matches by scoring an unbeaten 213 runs, which is the highest individual score by an Australian woman. This remarkable achievement showcases her absolute dominance with the bat and her exceptional skills in the game. Ellyse Perry is the first Australian cricketer to score over 6,000 runs and take more than 300 wickets in international matches. 16
Ellyse Perry has gained recognition as not just the youngest international cricketer, but also as a versatile and talented woman. She had achieved a lot since her debut at a small age and never looked back. Her dedication towards her dreams and vision of life is commendable and inspirational. CIO Women Magazine | 17
Cover Story 20
Dawn Christine PIONEERING INNOVATION IN ARCHITECTURE OWNER | Dawn Christine Architect PLLC CIO Women Magazine | 21
Cover Story 22
The architectural industry has evolved dramatically from its early days, expanding beyond mere structural designs to embody the innovative fusion of functionality and artistic expression. As the field has grown, so has its leaders’ diversity. Women have increasingly taken the helm in this traditionally male-dominated field, bringing fresh perspectives and transformative ideas that challenge conventional boundaries. Their rise in architecture reflects a broader shift towards inclusivity in professional realms and highlights the critical role of visionary leadership in shaping our built environments. Dawn Christine, the Owner of Dawn Christine Architect PLLC, is one such trailblazing figure. Known for her experiential approach to architecture, Christine crafts spaces that transcend traditional aesthetics, offering a harmonious blend of form and function that resonates deeply with clients’ aspirations. Her firm’s commitment to understanding and transforming the human experience through architectural design sets her apart as a luminary in the field. As an inspirational woman in business, Christine not only shapes skylines but also paves the way for future generations of women leaders in architecture, demonstrating that creativity and leadership know no bounds. Architectural Journey Christine’s professional journey commenced during high school when she explored fashion marketing and interior design at a summer camp in Miami. Encouraged by her father’s suggestion, she pursued architecture, which led her to the University of Florida for her undergraduate studies and later to NC State for graduate school. Following the birth of her son, she balanced motherhood while launching Crossworks, a contemporary Christian art business, before returning to complete her architectural degree. After a critical decision to prioritize her studies, she joined a local architect in Raleigh, where she honed her skills for 16 years. Despite challenges, including a divorce and financial constraints, Christine felt an internal push to pursue her passion for design. With a leap of faith, she founded her firm, Dawn Christine, Architect PLLC, and embarked on a journey marked by notable projects, collaborations, and industry recognition. Overcoming Challenges Throughout Christine’s journey from being a young single mother and student to becoming a successful woman leader, she encountered numerous challenges. Drawing from her upbringing, where her mother instilled resilience through busy schedules and extracurricular activities, Christine learned early on to persevere through setbacks. As a competitive figure skater, she embraced the experience of falling, bruising, and enduring pain without letting it deter her. These formative experiences shaped her approach to difficulties, emphasizing the importance of resilience and determination. Additionally, Christine’s faith played a significant role in her coping mechanism. Anchored by biblical verses such as James 1:2-4, which encouraged her to consider trials as opportunities for growth, and Romans 8:28, which reinforced her belief that all things work together for good, Christine found strength and purpose in her adversities. Armed with this mindset, she faced challenges head-on, viewing them as stepping stones toward personal and professional growth. Roles & Responsibilities Christine is responsible for directing all design decisions from conceptualization to final documentation. As the primary creative force, she ensures that each project reflects her vision and direction, overseeing both creative and technical aspects to maintain cohesion throughout the process. While she collaborates with an associate architect for structural considerations, Christine’s meticulous involvement guarantees the fidelity of the design to her initial creative idea. CIO Women Magazine | 23
Differentiating Factors Experiential Design Approach: Christine is recognized as an experiential architect, crafting buildings with a unique focus on how individuals “experience” space and form. Unlike traditional architects who prioritize form before space, Christine’s approach begins from the inside out, considering each client’s needs and the emotional journey through the architecture. By layering perspectives and creating a multi-dimensional canvas, she shapes environments that inspire and evoke emotion, turning homes into inviting spaces for sacred and everyday moments. Comprehensive VII Phase Design Process: The rm’s VII Phase Design Process is lauded by clients for its clarity and effectiveness. Starting with the Needs and Options Review, the process establishes project expectations and empowers clients with 3-dimensional visualizations to experience their spaces before construction begins. From conceptualization to nal drawings for permit and construction, Christine transitions seamlessly from artist to engineer, ensuring that each detail is meticulously addressed to bring clients’ dreams to life. Proven Track Record: Numerous positive client reviews conrm the rm’s ability to exceed expectations and deliver dream homes. Clients praise Christine for her expertise, industry experience, and personalized approach, which results in seamless experiences from design through execution. With a keen focus on listening to clients’ wants, dreams, and budget constraints, Christine consistently produces innovative design solutions that delight her clients. Unique Pre-design Service: The rm offers a valuable pre-design service, the Needs and Options Review, addressing common challenges in project communication and feasibility assessment. This service helps clients articulate their ideas effectively, dene project constraints, and understand design and budget requirements upfront. By providing clarity and condence early in the project development process, the Needs and Options Review streamlines decision-making. It sets clients on a solid path toward realizing their project vision. 24
Cover Story experiential aspect of architecture, her designs transcend mere structures, evoking emotions and challenging conventional norms. This unique perspective has garnered praise and acclaim, with clients appreciating the transformation of ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Unique Design Approach Dawn Christine Architect PLLC offers a distinctive seven-phase design process, beginning with a conceptual exploration that transitions from broad artistic strokes to technical engineering considerations. Setting themselves apart, the firm employs a 3D-centric approach, where every drawing is rendered in three dimensions to allow clients to envision and experience the design’s beauty and functionality fully. Unlike conventional practices, where reliance on 2D renderings can lead to discrepancies during construction, Dawn Christine Architect PLLC ensures clarity by providing detailed 3D models that guide contractors and engineers to bring the creative vision to life accurately. Christine’s background in fine arts and her unconventional design philosophy, influenced by her studies at the University of Florida and her thesis on “Architecture: Experiencing art through space and time” at NC State, shapes her approach. Emphasizing the Strategic Design Approach Dawn Christine Architect PLLC offers a structured predesign phase, initiating client meetings, vision drafting, and detailed analysis; each stage will span two weeks. The core feature is the “Needs and Options Review,” developed to help clients who struggle to convey their project ideas and understand feasibility without expensive architectural plans. This service facilitates clear communication, allowing architects to thoroughly assess and refine client needs and explore optimal design options. It also gives clients early insights into design and budget requirements, enhancing confidence and decision-making with minimal investment. The firm’s ideal client is open to creativity and views challenges as opportunities, qualities that have helped shape the firm into an ‘Award-Winning Architecture Company. CIO Women Magazine | 25
Integrating Technology Perspective on Feminism Dawn Christine, Architect PLLC embraces technology to enhance its design offerings, mainly through comprehensive three-dimensional modeling. Unlike traditional practices where interior design may be outsourced, the firm ensures cohesion by concurrently designing interior and exterior spaces. This unified approach eliminates potential conflicts between design teams, resulting in a seamless and harmonious final product. Looking to the future, Dawn Christine Architect PLLC is expanding its technological capabilities by integrating virtual reality into its services. This innovative addition will allow clients to experience designs in immersive virtual environments, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the proposed spaces. Christine is actively working on implementing this technology, aiming to provide clients with an even more immersive and engaging design experience. Christine defines feminism as embodying a quiet strength, blending gentleness with unspoken resilience. For her, it’s about demonstrating inner fortitude through actions rather than aggressive assertions. This nuanced view emphasizes the power of subtle yet unmistakable feminine strength. Nurturing Team Beyond her professional duties, Christine prioritizes creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment for her team. She emphasizes a solid work-life balance by implementing a unique schedule where employees technically work three days a week, with Mondays and Fridays optional. This approach fosters productivity, allowing for fruitful and enjoyable workdays. With a commitment to family and work-life integration, Christine extends her nurturing approach to her employees, treating them as friends or even like her children. She organizes occasional fun activities and ensures that workloads are manageable, prioritizing the well-being of her team alongside client demands. Through her leadership, Christine cultivates a workplace culture characterized by camaraderie, support, and a shared commitment to excellence. Qualities of a Woman Leader Christine reflects on the ideal qualities of a woman leader, emphasizing the need for a delicate balance between firmness and gentleness. Recognizing women’s challenges in asserting themselves, she underscores the importance of confidence and accuracy in communication to command respect and direction. However, Christine believes a woman’s leadership success stems from her nurturing and empathetic nature. Clients often seek her expertise as a woman architect for her understanding of spatial dynamics and family needs. Leveraging her broad background and experiences, Christine incorporates thoughtful considerations into her designs, anticipating future needs and enhancing client satisfaction. Building Lasting Connections Christine cherishes the meaningful relationships she builds with clients throughout the design process. Understanding the importance of getting to know her clients personally, she ensures that their unique preferences and lifestyles are reflected in the final design. Christine’s genuine care for people translates into a deep commitment to creating projects that exceed her client’s expectations. As a result, many of her clients become friends after the project’s completion. She fondly recalls a recent interaction with a client, the first major renovation project she undertook, who reached out from London to share his admiration for a building’s architecture. tuned and in tune at once.”“ Confronting Gender Barriers As a woman leader in architecture, Christine has encountered significant challenges, particularly in overcoming gender-related barriers. Early in her career, she faced resistance from male counterparts, including a builder who initially refused to heed her advice on one of her projects. Despite such obstacles, Christine remained steadfast, recognizing the importance of patience and perseverance in building bridges and fostering collaboration. Over time, her efforts paid off, as the same builder who once dismissed her input became a trusted confidant seeking her advice. Design is not about the four walls; rather, it is about an artistic experience through space and time in which one’s sensibilities are both -Dawn Christine 26
Cover Story Source of Inspiration When asked about her source of inspiration, Christine reflects on her faith and points to Jesus as her ultimate role model. She admires his blend of strength, truthfulness, kindness, and love, which broke through barriers in a remarkable way. Christine sees Jesus as the embodiment of timeless characteristics like truth, strength, love, gentleness, kindness, and endurance—qualities that have contributed to her success and that she strives to emulate and impart to others. Achieving Excellence Christine modestly reflects on her journey, focusing not on achievements but on pursuing excellence that propels her forward. However, several notable milestones stand out. She had the opportunity to contribute to the film “Beyond the Block,” discussing the development of Cary and collaborating with producers in California. Her work was featured in Cary Magazine, garnering recognition for a project and subsequently winning awards across various platforms. Building on this success, Christine embarked on an international venture, traveling to New Zealand with her daughters, Dezarae and Dakota, to launch “Design Talk.” This new endeavor encompasses a YouTube channel and social media platforms to engage design enthusiasts and potential clients in discussions about design. Through this initiative, Christine not only shares her expertise but also imparts business knowledge to her daughters while offering valuable insights to a broader audience in an approachable and enjoyable manner. Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Christine offers resolute advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs or leaders: “Go big or go home.” Encouraging them to aim high and pursue their dreams without fear, she emphasizes the importance of utilizing their talents and gifts to the fullest. Drawing from her faith, Christine highlights the significance of giving one’s best effort in all endeavors, guided by the principle of doing everything unto a higher authority. She urges young women to persevere and maintain unwavering dedication, reminding them that success comes to those who give their all and refuse to give up. CIO Women Magazine | 27
S erving the symbol of British resilience and democracy throughout history, Big Ben remains one of the most iconic symbols of London. It is a popular tourist attraction among millions of visitors. The Latin inscription beneath the clock face translates to "O Lord, safeguard our Queen Victoria the First." Being the most recognizable landmark in London, Big Ben is the must-see monument for rst-time visitors in the English Capital. Each dial is 7 meters in diameter and is located on the north banks of the river Thames. In this article, you will be reading about its history and lesser-known facts. CIO Women Magazine | 31
History Behind the BIG BEN The history of dates back to mid 19th century when the British Parliament decided to rebuild the Palace of Big Ben Westminister. The architect Sir Charles Barry won the competition to design the new palace, and construction began shortly thereafter. Initially known as the Clock Tower, it was later named the Elizabeth Tower in honor of Elizabeth II. To complement the architecture of the palace, Augustus Pugin built it in a neo-Gothic style. Moreover, the clock was designed by Edmund Beckett Denison, and the clockmaker responsible for its construction was Edward John Dent. The clock faces, each measuring over 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter, were installed in 1859. The Great Bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in 1858 and originally chimed for the first time on July 11, 1859. LESSER-KNOWN FACTS ABOUT BIG BEN In this section, you will be exploring, lesser-known facts that provide insight into the rich history and unique features of one of London's most iconic landmarks. The name Big Ben does not refer to the clock itself but to the Great Bell housed within the tower which is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. The Big Ben shows the most incredibly accurate timing. The history behind its name is uncertain as according to some theories, it is named after Sir Benjamin Hall, while others attribute it to heavyweight boxing champion Benjamin Caunt. Various musical compositions have included chimes for the shows like the introductory theme of the BBC World Service Radio Program. Throughout history, it has been silenced on certain occasions like World War II to stop being used by enemy aircraft as navigating aid. 32
The color of the clock face has been changed over the years. Initially, it was light Prussian blue and in 1930 it was changed during restoration work. There are hidden rooms inside Elizabeth Tower including a prison cell used to detain Members of Parliament who are found guilty of misconduct. The clock face has been made of 324 pieces of opal glass, all held together with a cast iron frame. With four clockfaces on the tower, that’s a staggering 1,292 individual pieces of glass in total! There are four other small quarter bells present beside the Elizabeth Tower and each bell makes a musical note. The first quarter bell plays a G The second quarter bell plays a F# Big Ben and the third-quarter bell both play an E The fourth quarter bell plays a B Big Ben itself chimes every hour alongside the quarter bells, and the quarter bells chime by themselves every 15 minutes. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Elizabeth Tower stands more than 96 meters tall, with 334 steps to climb up to the belfry and 399 steps to the Ayrton Light at the very top of the tower. INTERESTING EVENTS AT BIG BEN In 2002, the celebration of the New Millennium event took place at the Elizabeth Tower which was temporarily named “London Millennium Tower” and equipped with digital countdown clocks to mark the occasion. However, this change was only temporary, and the tower reverted to its original name after the celebrations concluded. Moreover, it regularly chimes to mark significant events and occasions, including New Year's Eve celebrations, Remembrance Day, and the opening of Parliament. Its resonant chimes have become synonymous with important moments in British history and culture. In 2012, during the diamond jubilee event of Queen Elizabeth II, the British Government paid tribute to her reign and her long-standing success in the United Kingdom CIO Women Magazine | 33
Role in Popular British Culture: The monument attracts millions of tourists from around the world each year, drawn to its impressive architecture and historical significance. The Clock Tower is a focal point for visitors exploring London, with many taking guided tours to learn more about its history and construction. Its iconic silhouette has become synonymous with London's skyline, contributing to its status as a world-renowned landmark and symbol of the city. Its presence in tourism promotions and marketing materials further enhances its visibility and appeal to travelers seeking to experience the cultural richness of London. Big Ben has been featured prominently in various popular culture which includes lms, literature, and movies. Big Ben has come to symbolize the resilience and endurance of the British people, particularly during times of adversity such as World War II. As one of the most recognizable landmarks in London, the monument embodies the values of democracy and stability that are integral to British society. The clock's steadfast ticking and chiming serve as a reassuring presence, reflecting the strength and perseverance of the nation. Impact on Tourism and its Status as a World-Renowned Landmark You might have watched it in one of the episodes of the Sherlock Holmes Web Series: The Empty Hearse where there was a time bomb at the underground metro and the building of Parliament as well as the Clock Tower was supposed to explode. In films, it often serves as a visual shorthand for London and the United Kingdom, appearing in iconic scenes that showcase the city's landmarks. In literature, it is frequently referenced as a symbol of London's rich history and cultural heritage, evoking a sense of nostalgia and tradition. In music, its distinctive chimes have been sampled and incorporated into numerous compositions, adding a touch of authenticity and atmosphere to musical pieces. 34
Challenges and Controversies: Technical Complexity: The intricate mechanical workings of Big Ben present challenges in terms of maintenance and restoration. The clock mechanism requires specialized expertise and careful handling to ensure its continued accuracy and reliability. Funding and Budgetary Constraints: Funding for maintenance and restoration projects of Big Ben may be limited, leading to delays or compromises in the scope of work. Securing adequate funding for comprehensive restoration efforts can be challenging, particularly when competing with other infrastructure projects and budget priorities. Access Limitations: Access to certain parts of the clock tower, including the clock faces and bell chamber, can be limited and challenging for maintenance personnel. This can complicate repair and restoration efforts, requiring innovative solutions to access and work on these areas safely. Disruption to Operations: Major maintenance and restoration work on Big Ben can result in disruptions to its regular operations, including temporary silencing of the clock and closure of the tower to visitors. Balancing the need for maintenance with minimizing disruptions to tourism and public access poses logistical challenges for project planners. Conservation vs. Modernization: There is often debate over whether restoration efforts should prioritize conservation to preserve the historical integrity of Clock Tower or incorporate modern upgrades to improve functionality and longevity. Balancing these considerations can be contentious, with differing opinions among conservationists, engineers, and heritage advocates. Controversy over Renaming: The decision to rename the Clock Tower as the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 sparked controversy among some individuals who argued that it undermined the historical significance of the name "Big Ben." This controversy highlighted tensions between honoring tradition and recognizing contemporary figures in British history. CONCLUSION With all the challenges and controversies regarding the restoration work of Big Ben, the monument remains the most popular benchmark in the English Capital. We hope our article provided important insights regarding the Clock Tower. If you are going to visit the city in the future, do not forget to visit the tower and remember Big Ben is referred to as the Great Bell inside the tower. CIO Women Magazine | 35
STRATEGIES FOR ADVANCING YOUR CAREER: A GUIDE FOR WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT 38
Develop Leadership Skills In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving professional landscape, women are increasingly breaking barriers and ascending to leadership roles in management. While considerable progress has been made in achieving gender diversity, women in management still face unique challenges. To succeed and advance their careers, it is essential for women in management to employ effective strategies that cater to their unique needs and circumstances. In this article, we will explore key strategies and insights for women in management seeking to climb the corporate ladder and thrive in leadership roles. Management positions require strong leadership skills. Women in management should actively work on honing their leadership abilities to excel in their roles. Leadership development strategies include: Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and leadership best practices. Enroll in leadership development programs, workshops, and seminars to enhance your skills and knowledge. Embrace Confidence and Self-Advocacy One of the fundamental pillars for career advancement is confidence. Women in management should cultivate and project self-assuredness in their abilities and decisions. Confidence not only affects personal well-being but also influences how others perceive you. To boost your confidence: Seek Feedback: Be open to feedback from colleagues, superiors, and subordinates. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your leadership style. a) Assertive Communication: Effective communication is vital for women in management. Be clear and assertive in your verbal and written communication. Speak up in meetings and share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns confidently. b) Self-Promotion: Women often tend to downplay their accomplishments. Instead, celebrate your achievements and make sure your contributions are recognized. Don’t shy away from promoting your work and achievements within the organization. Lead by Example: Effective leaders demonstrate the values and behaviors they expect from their teams. By setting a positive example, women in management can inspire and motivate their employees. c) Mentorship and Networking: Seek out mentors, both male and female, who can provide guidance and support. Networking within and outside your organization can help you gain insights, access opportunities, and build a strong support system. CIO Women Magazine | 39
Navigate Workplace Challenges Embrace Diversity and Inclusion Women in management often face specific challenges that can hinder their career progression. It is important to acknowledge these challenges and adopt strategies to address them: Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace benefits everyone. Women in management can play a significant role in advancing diversity efforts. Key strategies include: Work-Life Balance: Balancing career and personal life can be demanding. Establish clear boundaries, delegate tasks when possible, and make use of flexible work arrangements to manage this juggling act effectively. Mentorship and Sponsorship: Women can mentor and sponsor other women, especially those at earlier stages of their careers. Providing guidance and advocating for their advancement can have a lasting impact. Combat Gender Bias: Women in management should actively challenge and combat gender bias in the workplace. Addressing biases and stereotypes can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all employees. Diverse Hiring Practices: Encourage diverse hiring practices within your organization. Ensure that recruitment and promotion decisions are based on merit and a commitment to diversity. Negotiation Skills: Negotiation skills are crucial for career advancement. Women should not hesitate to negotiate for salary, benefits, and promotions. Learning effective negotiation techniques can help bridge the gender pay gap. Inclusive Leadership: Lead by example in fostering an inclusive culture within your team or department. Encourage open dialogue and be receptive to diverse perspectives. Set and Pursue Clear Goals Foster Resilience Setting and pursuing clear career goals is essential for professional advancement. Women in management should take time to define their goals and establish a roadmap to achieve them. Strategies for goal setting include: Resilience is a vital quality for anyone seeking career advancement. Women in management, like their male counterparts, may encounter setbacks and obstacles. Strategies for building resilience include: Conclusion Conclusion a) Develop Coping Strategies: Identify healthy coping strategies for dealing with stress and setbacks. These may include meditation, exercise, or seeking support from friends and colleagues. a) Short-Term and Long-Term Objectives: Break down your goals into short-term and long- term objectives. This approach helps you maintain focus and track your progress. b) Learn from Failures: Instead of dwelling on failures, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Analyze what went wrong and how you can improve in the future. b) Professional Development Plan: Create a professional development plan that outlines the skills, experiences, and knowledge you need to reach your goals. Regularly update this plan as you progress in your career. c) Maintain a Positive Outlook: Cultivate a positive mindset. Focus on your achievements and the progress you’ve made in your career, even when faced with challenges. c) Seek out Challenging Opportunities: Don’t shy away from challenging assignments or projects. Taking on new responsibilities and pushing your boundaries can lead to personal and professional growth. 40
Women in management have made remarkable strides in the professional world, but there is still work to be done to achieve gender equity in leadership roles. By adopting the strategies outlined in this guide, women can advance their careers, overcome challenges, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Confidence, leadership development, effective navigation of workplace challenges, promoting diversity and inclusion, setting clear goals, and fostering resilience are all essential components of a successful career journey for women in management. Embracing these strategies can lead to not only personal growth but also positive change within organizations and the broader business community. Conclusion Conclusion CIO Women Magazine | 41