The Resilience Toolkit: Empowering Women and Redefining Leadership
International Women's Day- Time for Reflection.
Dr Oseng-Rees reflects!
During a recent interview by Year 10 Student Media Team at Ffynone House School, I was asked “If you could change one thing to make the world better for women, what would it be?” This question made me pause and reflect on the unique qualities that women bring to leadership—qualities that are often undervalued or overlooked. Women naturally excel in soft skills such as empathy, adaptability, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and resilience—traits that are crucial for strong, sustainable leadership. Yet, society still tends to celebrate traditional leadership styles that prioritise competition over cooperation and assertiveness over understanding.
From my own experience working with women, I have felt a sense of trust, mutual support, and shared responsibility. Women leaders create environments where people feel valued, seen, and heard—fostering better teamwork, innovation, and well-being in the workplace. If I could change one thing, it would be for these qualities to be widely recognised and valued—not as "soft" or secondary traits but as the foundation of exceptional leadership.
Overcoming Challenges – A Mindset of Growth
One of the most common questions I receive during Q&A sessions is: “Have you ever struggled with low self-esteem? How have you overcome challenges?” I often chuckle at this question—not because it's insignificant but because I have faced many, many challenges and used to have a chronic low self-esteem. Every time I overcome an obstacle; I make a mental note: I did it. I survived this one too. I keep these small victories stored in my mental repertoire, adding them to my personal toolbox for the next challenge. With every hurdle, I grow a little more confident—not because I never doubt myself, but because I’ve learned that resilience is more powerful than fear.
I vividly remember my first real encounter with self-doubt. As a high-school student passionate about the arts, I dreamt of applying to an art university. One day, I shared this ambition with a teacher, hoping for encouragement. Instead, she snuffed out my confidence with a single comment: "I know someone who applied there three, even four times, and never got in. You shouldn’t have high hopes."
That was all it took. Just like that, my dream was gone. I internalised her words, believing that if others had failed, I had no chance. I didn’t even try applying to the university. Instead, I redirected my path and applied to study psychology. Looking back, I see how one moment—one voice of doubt—can alter a person’s trajectory. And yet, life has a way of bringing us back to where we are meant to be.
The development of a Mental Toolkit of Resilience
The passion never truly left me. Over time, I realised that I couldn’t ignore the creative drive that had always been a part of me. So, despite the initial doubt planted by that teacher’s words, I decided to give my passion a real try, and that’s where I found the pathway of product design. Taking that first step became the foundation for building my resilience and tackling future challenges. My Mental Toolkit of Resilience began to take shape.
Taking that leap was one of the best decisions of my life. If I hadn’t taken that chance, I would never have ended up where I am today—with a business that combines art, sustainability, and a deep passion for empowering young entrepreneurs.
Looking back, I see that setbacks and discouragement are just part of the journey. What truly matters is the choice to keep going, to trust in our abilities, and to reclaim the dreams we once thought were out of reach. My experience has taught me that doubt—whether it comes from others or from within—is never a reason to stop. If anything, it’s a sign to push forward even harder.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a woman entrepreneur, I’m committed to uplifting others by proving that skills, ambition, and impact matter far more than appearances. Women need role models who highlight determination and talent, breaking outdated societal expectations to redefine success with confidence and purpose. Together, we can create a future where women’s contributions are truly valued.
And thanks to Big Ideas Wales for facilitating the interviews and Joanne Cooper at Ffynone House School for the invitation.
Here’s to progress and possibility—Happy International Women’s Day!
