Women Entrepreneurs are rising, proving their knowledge and capabilities are worth noticing. There is no question that women entrepreneurs are growing in the workforce, slowly but surely. Equality is the best it has ever been, and with millennials leading the way, there is no telling how different the workplace will be in 20 years. The female voice started as a whisper, and has evolved into a scream that cannot be shut out. Continuing to grow as a community is essential for the future of young girls across the country and around the world.
Though we are seeing some change, there is still much room for improvement. The Census Bureau reports on some statistics about women in the workforce. Female employment has been steadily increasing over the past decade, however their income is still less than 80% of what men make. Women are getting paid $0.77 for every dollar. According to the Census Bureau, women are surpassing men in pursuing higher education. The amount of female led firms are rising and leaders are emerging. Mary Barra has changed the automobile industry, being their first female CEO. The COO of Facebook Sheryl Sandberg is the author of the bestselling book, “Lean In, Women, Work, and the Will to Lead,” where she tells her personal experiences and gives advice for women to achieve their goals. Women are taking a stand in male dominated industries, but the statistic of a gender wage gap and occupational discrimination is still a big reality.
The support women has received thus far has contributed to the progress that we have seen today. Demanding equal pay and taking a stand in the workplace is integral to the future of our workforce. No longer are females required to apologize for their opinions and approach with caution when speaking. The glass ceiling can be broken, and will continue to be shattered throughout the next decade. Women are helping each other accomplish what seemed impossible not so long ago. The challenges are still very real, but the constant pursuit for success has changed the perception of who women are in male-dominated industries. It is not a fight against men, it’s about the growth of women in a society that views women as incapable. The support comes from both sides, initiating a partnership for a better workplace.
So, what lies ahead? The future’s brighter than it’s ever been for women entrepreneurs. The next generation of girls will be able to experience the progress that we and the women before us have worked so hard for. The goal of having female executives and leaders is possible, and with persistence, will mark a huge step towards equality. There will be seats for women in the boardroom, open minds for women with opinions, and room for women to make decisions. Millennials are the biggest generation to date, and are changing society into a place that is welcoming to all. By educating and supporting our youth, they will have the confidence to achieve goals that were once impossible.
