When I was invited to facilitate an ASEAN leadership program for female Red Cross leaders, my immediate reaction was self-doubt. As a man, I hadn't navigated the invisible glass ceilings or systemic broken rungs these women face daily. I questioned whether I was qualified to stand at the front of the room.

The program organizer, Evelyn, offered a perspective that permanently shifted my understanding of advocacy:

‍"Us women need more allies in the room."

That powerful moment set everything in motion. Thanks to the vision and leadership of Evelyn, her boss Kathryn, and her assistant Emily, this critical training became a reality. My partner Pim and I joined these inspiring leaders to facilitate a hands-on session focused on influencing without authority.

Leading When Lives Are on the Line

In the corporate world, a failed project usually means lost revenue or delayed timelines. For these Red Cross leaders operating across South East Asia, project failure means human lives are at stake. Their resilience and strategic execution under extreme pressure were deeply humbling.

Creating Space at the Table

Throughout the workshop, I was struck by how welcomed, respected, and included I felt as the only man in the room. Yet, the stark reality is that when these leaders walk into global decision-making rooms, they are frequently the only women and rarely receive that same level of inclusion.

By the end of the program, participants achieved a +53% skill lift in persuasive communication and strategic confidence, 90% Program CSAT. 100% Facilitator CSAT. But the ultimate takeaway had nothing to do with numbers: real leadership progress requires dedicated champions bringing people together - and allies who are willing to show up, listen, and support.

Over to you:

‍What does meaningful allyship look like in your workplace? 

How do you create space for others?

Let’s chat if you want a team of ally to grow your team leaders

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