Happy International Women's Day!

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #AccelerateAction, and it’s more than a slogan—it’s a rally cry.

It's a call for systemic change. When we talk about Accelerating Action, we’re talking about stepping up, showing up, and making real moves toward gender equality now. No more waiting, no more “someday.” It’s about breaking down the barriers and biases that hold women back, in business, in life, and everywhere in between.

Accelerating Action through Sponsorship

Women are over mentored and under sponsored. 

For years, we’ve been told that mentorship is the key to success, and for many women, it’s been an important part of their journey. The truth is, mentorship can guide you, but sponsorship can change the game.

Sponsors don’t just give advice—they use their influence and clout to open doors, advocate for your growth, and make sure you’re seen by the people who can elevate your career. Sponsorship means having someone in your corner who is willing to put their name behind yours.

Sponsorship is one of the most powerful allyship actions. It’s high impact with low touch. While having a mentor helps determine your career path and gives you excellent advice, a sponsor can actively change your career and make a true impact on your path. It’s a very underutilized tool for professional development, and it’s time more people knew about it.

I created a three-part series with actionable steps to enacting sponsorship in your organization. Part 1 details the impact and need for sponsorship, Part 2 is how to find and win a sponsor, and in Part 3 I share how to be a sponsor and tips to create a sponsorship plan.

Every woman deserves a champion in her corner, and a sponsor is exactly that. Sponsorship requires a commitment from the top down, with leaders recognizing the value of diversity and actively working to promote it by celebrating the unique contributions of women from all backgrounds and ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and respected.

It is the ultimate way to Accelerate Action.

Happy International Women's Day!
Salima Valji

Accelerate Action in your workplace.

Beyond Mentorship: The Power of True Sponsorship offers programatic support to bring scalable sponsorship to your organization—making your workplace more inclusive for every member, no matter their status.

Click here to get started!