A Decade of Impact: A Founder’s Reflections and Vision Ahead 

As I sit here today, contemplating the past decade of Women Back to Work (WBW), I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of pride and gratitude. Although it was several years ago, it seems just like yesterday when I made the fulfilling decision to pause my career to raise my daughter.  Time has a way of blurring the lines between past and present, reminding us how pivotal certain moments can be.

What I hadn’t anticipated was the challenges I would encounter when I was ready to return to the professional world. The process was daunting, isolating, and often felt like an uphill battle.

I discovered a stark reality: many capable, talented women face similar obstacles when attempting to re-enter the workforce. This personal experience became the driving force behind the creation of Women Back to Work.  It ignited a deeply personal mission: to challenge the notion that a career break diminishes a woman’s value and create a world where all women are given equal opportunity to thrive, regardless of their career breaks.

What began as a simple idea – a belief that women returning to the workforce deserve support and opportunities to rebuild their careers – has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined. It’s not just a program; it’s a movement that has impacted thousands of lives, created career paths, and planted seeds of hope for a future generation of women to weave in and out of the workforce as life happens.

These ten years have been a journey filled with ups and downs. From navigating economic upheavals, adapting through a global pandemic and embracing the ever-shifting dynamics of the workplace. Through it all – WBW has stayed true to our mission – to help women land back on their feet, restore their confidence, gain financial independence and take ownership of their professional narratives once again.

Every job for our returner represents a powerful story, the woman who dared to dream again, the family overjoyed by her return to work, the community uplifted by her success. These stories are the heart and soul of WBW, fueling our unwavering resolve to empower women and create a brighter future for all.

As we commemorate this milestone, we also acknowledge that there is so much more to be done.

2025 isn’t just another year for us -it’s the beginning of a bold new chapter.

• 10th Year Conference – mark Thursday August 21st on your calendar for our Return-to-Work Conference that will bring Returners and companies together.
• Establishing an Industry Advisory Board to guide our strategies and amplify our impact.

• Introducing cutting-edge tools, including AI-powered interview assessments, to better equip returners for the challenges of today’s competitive job market.

• Deepening partnerships – with leading companies to create pathways for those returning to work. Elevating our Power Hours that have set the industry trend.

To our Corporate Partners: Thank you for believing in this mission. Your support goes far beyond hiring – it transforms lives, reshapes futures, and helps build organizations that thrive through equitable and inclusive workplaces.

To Friends, Advocates, Allies, Mentors and Champions: Thank you for your confidence, the immense inspiration and believing in what we do. There are so many of you who made a positive difference.

To our Returners: You are the heart of this journey. Your courage to take that first step, your resilience to rise above challenges, and your determination to rebuild your careers inspire us every single day. We are committed to standing by you every step of the way, helping you reclaim your rightful place in the workforce.

To Akraya and WBW Team: Thank you for continuing to deliver 3X Karma and for your care, compassion and confidence in our Returner communities.

As I reflect on these 10 years, I can’t help but think about the legacy we’re building—not just for today’s returners, but for the young women watching us. Our daughters, the next generation of dreamers, and changemakers. Together, we are shaping a world where career breaks are seen not as barriers, but as opportunities to grow and come back stronger.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to celebrating a decade of impact—and to the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

Resume Refresh: A Returner’s Guide to Showcasing Your Comeback

Returning to the workforce after a career break is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you took time off for caregiving, personal growth, or other reasons, your experience still holds value. The key is to craft a resume that reflects your strengths, transferable skills, and readiness for today’s job market.

At Women Back to Work (WBW), we’ve helped countless returners confidently re-enter the workforce. And here’s some great news—WBW has partnered with Infoblox, a leader in cloud-first networking and security solutions, to offer a returnship program designed for professionals returning to the workforce after a career break.

This collaboration provides opportunities for returners to refresh their skills and re-enter the technology industry. The program includes tailored skill development, workshops, and resources to support a successful transition back into the workforce.

If you’re preparing to restart your career, here’s how you can refresh your resume and make your application stand out!

1. Address the Career Break with Confidence

Many returners worry about how to explain a gap in employment. The good news? Companies today recognize and value career breaks. Here’s how to handle it:

✅ Use a “Career Break” Section – Instead of leaving a gap, include a section titled “Career Break” with a brief explanation such as:

Career Break | 2019–2024
Focused on professional development, caregiving, and upskilling through courses and volunteer work.

✅ Emphasize What You Gained – Did you take courses, volunteer, freelance, or manage projects during your break? These experiences showcase transferable skills like leadership, organization, and adaptability.

2. Highlight Transferable Skills & Relevant Experience

Even if you’ve been out of the workforce, your past experience is still valuable. Focus on skills that are relevant today and use industry keywords to align with job descriptions.

🔥 Examples of Transferable Skills:

• Project Management
• Leadership & Team Collaboration
• Communication & Stakeholder Management
• Digital & Technical Skills (Excel, CRM, Data Analysis, etc.)
• Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking

3. Use a Skills-Based Resume Format

A functional or hybrid resume format works best for returners. Instead of focusing only on work history, emphasize skills and accomplishments first.

📌 Example Structure:

– Professional Summary – A powerful 2–3 sentence introduction about your strengths.

– Key Skills & Achievements – Highlight what makes you a strong candidate.

– Work Experience – Focus on impact, not just responsibilities.

– Career Break – Briefly explain your time away.

– Education & Certifications – Include any upskilling or courses completed.

4. Tailor Your Resume for Every Role

Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all resume. Use keywords from job descriptions and customize your resume to match the role you’re applying for.

💡 Tip: Many companies, including Infoblox, are returner-friendly. If you’re applying to a returnship opportunity, highlight why you’re excited about re-entering the workforce and how your skills align with their needs.

5. Add a Strong Summary Statement

Your resume summary is the first thing recruiters see, making it a powerful opportunity to showcase your strengths and career readiness. A well-crafted summary should be concise, impactful, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Instead of simply stating your past roles, focus on your skills, achievements, and what you bring to the table as a returner.

Your Comeback Starts Now!

Your resume isn’t just a document—it’s your personal brand. Take the time to refine it, highlight your value, and confidently apply for opportunities. WBW’s partnership with Infoblox is actively creating pathways for returners like you to restart their careers with the right support and resources. Reach out to us today.

In 2025, the talent landscape is more competitive than ever. Social media has become an indispensable tool for recruiters looking to attract, engage, and hire top talent. Traditional job boards are no longer the primary source of candidates—today’s workforce expects companies to have a strong online presence, showcasing not just job openings but also culture, values, and opportunities for career growth.

For organizations committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion—such as those partnering with Women Back to Work (WBW)—social media offers a powerful way to connect with skilled professionals who may have taken career breaks, are seeking returnship programs, or are looking for roles that align with their skills and aspirations.

Leveraging Social Media for Recruitment Success

 1. Build a Strong Employer Brand

A company’s social media presence speaks volumes about its culture and values. In 2025, job seekers expect authenticity, transparency, and engagement. Organizations must use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, to share employee success stories, highlight workplace culture, and demonstrate their commitment to hiring diverse talent.

Tip: Feature returners’ stories to inspire others and showcase how your company supports professionals re-entering the workforce.

2. Target Passive Talent

Not all top talent is actively looking for a job. Many skilled professionals are passive candidates who may consider the right opportunity if it aligns with their career goals. Social media allows recruiters to engage with them through personalized messages, thought leadership content, and interactive job postings.

Tip: Use LinkedIn groups and industry-specific online communities to connect with professionals returning to the workforce.

3. Humanize the Hiring Process

Recruitment in 2025 is no longer just about job listings—it’s about meaningful conversations. Live Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes company videos, and employee takeovers can make organizations more approachable and engaging for candidates.

Tip: Host live sessions featuring returners and HR leaders to discuss hiring trends and returnship opportunities.

4. Use AI and Analytics for Smarter Hiring

Social media platforms now offer advanced AI-driven recruitment tools, allowing companies to target the right audience with precision. Analytics provide insights into engagement levels, helping recruiters optimize their strategy.

Tip: Utilize AI-driven ad targeting to reach skilled women returning to the workforce.

5. Promote Flexible and Inclusive Work Policies

Social media is an excellent platform to highlight workplace policies that attract diverse candidates, such as flexible work arrangements, upskilling opportunities, and mentorship programs. Organizations that actively showcase their commitment to inclusion and work-life balance gain a competitive edge in hiring.

Tip: Share success stories of employees who have benefited from flexible work policies, making your company more attractive to returners.

The Future of Hiring Is Social

In 2025, social media is no longer just a tool for branding—it’s a strategic recruitment powerhouse. Companies that harness its potential to connect with diverse talent pools, including career returners, will build stronger, more inclusive teams. By embracing authenticity, engagement, and technology, organizations can stay ahead in the evolving hiring landscape.

For employers looking to hire experienced professionals re-entering the workforce, Women Back to Work (WBW) provides access to a highly skilled talent pool ready to make an impact. The question is—are you leveraging social media to connect with them?

Reach out to us today.

Returning to the workforce after a career break comes with its challenges, and interviews can be one of the most intimidating aspects of the process. Preparation is key to making a strong impression with evolving hiring practices, new technologies, and shifting employer expectations.

Whether it’s a behavioural interview, a technical assessment, or a virtual screening, the right approach can set you apart. This guide covers key strategies to help returners confidently navigate the interview process.

 1. Research and Prepare

A well-prepared candidate always has a competitive edge. Understanding the company, the role, and the interview format is essential. Companies may conduct structured interviews, behavioural assessments, or AI-driven screenings. Researching the organization’s mission, values, and culture will help align your responses with their expectations.

Reviewing the job description carefully and identifying key skills required for the role will allow you to tailor your responses effectively. Preparing for common interview questions and understanding the latest industry trends can also strengthen your confidence.

 2. Addressing the Career Break with Confidence

Career breaks are common, and many employers are now more open to hiring returners. Instead of focusing on the gap itself, highlight the skills, experiences, or learning opportunities gained during that time. Whether through personal projects, continued education, volunteering, or freelancing, showcasing professional growth can position you as a strong candidate.

A clear and confident response about your career break demonstrates self-awareness, adaptability, and a proactive mindset—qualities employers highly value.

3. Mastering Behavioral and STAR Interview Techniques

Behavioral interviews are designed to assess problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. Using structured frameworks like the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help deliver clear and concise responses.

By preparing real-life examples that demonstrate your ability to handle challenges, work collaboratively, and contribute effectively, you can showcase your willingness to reenter the workforce.

4. Navigating Virtual & AI-Driven Interviews

With remote work becoming more common, virtual and AI-driven interviews are now a standard part of the hiring process. Ensuring a professional setup, maintaining strong communication, and being aware of AI-driven assessments can enhance your interview performance.

Companies using AI-based tools analyse not just responses but also tone, facial expressions, and overall engagement. Familiarizing yourself with these technologies and practicing virtual interactions can help you make a lasting impression.

5. Asking Thoughtful Questions

An interview is not just about answering questions—it’s also an opportunity to evaluate whether the company is the right fit for you. Asking insightful questions about company culture, growth opportunities, and team dynamics shows interest and engagement.

A well-prepared question can also help reinforce your enthusiasm for the role and leave a strong impression on the hiring manager.

Interviews are a critical step in the return-to-work journey, but with the right preparation, they don’t have to be overwhelming. By researching the company, confidently addressing career breaks, mastering behavioural responses, and preparing for virtual interactions, candidates can position themselves as strong contenders.

Explore Returnship Opportunities and take the next step in your career. Contact us today.

The Power of Networking in Career Reentry

Reentering the workforce after a career break can feel like navigating uncharted territory. You may wonder where to start, how to position yourself, or even whether your experience still holds value in today’s job market. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone.

Networking is one of the most powerful tools for professionals looking to restart their careers. A strong network opens doors to job opportunities, industry insights, and connections with people who can offer guidance and support. Whether through returnship programs, industry events, or online platforms, building relationships can make all the difference in securing your next role.

Why Networking Matters for Career Returners

1. Access to the Hidden Job Market

Many job openings aren’t publicly advertised. Instead, they are filled through referrals, professional networks, and internal recommendations. Connecting with former colleagues, industry professionals, and returnship alumni increases your chances of hearing about opportunities before they go public.

💡 Tip: Reach out to past coworkers, managers, and contacts with a simple message.

2. Staying Updated on Industry Trends

If you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, industries may have evolved, and new technologies or best practices may have emerged. Engaging with professionals in your field can help you stay informed and learn what’s currently in demand.

💡 Tip: Follow industry leaders on LinkedIn, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and attend webinars or conferences to stay updated.

3. Rebuilding Confidence

Career breaks can sometimes lead to self-doubt. Interacting with professionals, attending networking events, and engaging in career-related discussions can help rebuild confidence and remind you of the value you bring to the table.

💡 Tip: Practice introducing yourself with confidence.

How to Build and Expand Your Network

1. Tap into Your Existing Network

Your network is likely bigger than you think. Former colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and community members can be valuable connections. Let people know you’re returning to work—many will be eager to help.

🔹 Reconnect on LinkedIn with past colleagues.
🔹 Join alumni groups from your university or previous employers.
🔹 Reach out to friends and acquaintances working in your target industry.

2. Leverage LinkedIn and Online Communities

LinkedIn is an essential tool for networking, job searching, and staying visible in your industry.

🔹 Optimize Your Profile – Update your headline, summary, and experience to reflect your skills and career aspirations.
🔹 Engage with Content – Comment on industry posts, share insights, and participate in discussions to stay active.
🔹 Join Professional Groups – Many LinkedIn and Facebook groups cater to professionals in transition. Engage in conversations and connect with like-minded individuals.

3. Attend Industry Events and Career Fairs

In-person and virtual networking events are great for meeting professionals, learning from industry experts, and discovering job opportunities.

🔹 Look for industry conferences and career fairs.
🔹 Participate in returnship-focused events and employer meetups.
🔹 Sign up for Women Back to Work networking events designed for professionals returning to work.

4. Connect with Returnship Alumni

Many professionals who have completed returnships are eager to help others navigate the process. Reach out to alumni from returnship programs to learn about their experiences, best practices, and potential job leads.

🔹 Search for “returnship” on LinkedIn and connect with other returners
🔹 Ask for informational interviews to gain insights into different companies and their returnship initiatives.

Networking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about building relationships that can support your career growth long-term. Whether reconnecting with former colleagues, engaging on LinkedIn, or attending networking events, every conversation brings you one step closer to your next opportunity.

At Women Back to Work, we understand the power of networking in career reentry. Our returnship programs provide access to industry leaders, hiring managers, and a strong community of returners eager to support each other. If you’re looking to relaunch your career, explore our returnship opportunities and join a network that empowers your comeback. Reach out to us today.

Leveraging Transferable Skills for a Successful Career Reentry

Returning to the workforce after a career break can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that your technical and soft skills haven’t disappeared. Whether you took time off for caregiving, education, personal development, or any other reason, you’ve likely built a wealth of transferable skills that can be applied to new roles.

Returnships programs provide structured pathways to renter the workforce, helping professionals refresh their skills, gain hands-on experience, and transition back into meaningful careers. The key to a successful reentry lies in identifying and effectively leveraging your transferable skills.

Identifying Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are abilities that remain relevant across different industries and job functions. Some common examples include:

• Communication & Collaboration: Whether you managed family logistics, led community initiatives, or engaged in freelance projects, your ability to communicate and collaborate remains invaluable in the workplace.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Career breaks often require adaptability—navigating new environments, handling unexpected challenges, and finding solutions, all of which are essential in any professional setting.
• Project & Time Management: If you’ve juggled responsibilities, managed schedules, or organized events, you’ve honed project and time management skills that are directly applicable to many roles.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Volunteering, coaching, or leading local initiatives demonstrates leadership and mentoring abilities, key qualities employers look for in candidates.
• Technical & Digital Skills: Even if you weren’t actively working in a corporate setting, managing digital tools, social media, or online learning platforms can translate into valuable professional skills.

Applying Transferable Skills to New Roles

Once you’ve identified your skills, the next step is to present them effectively to potential employers. Here’s how:

• Update Your Resume & LinkedIn Profile: Frame your experiences in a way that highlights your transferable skills. Use action-oriented language to describe projects, responsibilities, and achievements.
• Tailor Your Applications: Instead of focusing on gaps, emphasize how your skills align with the job description. Use cover letters to explain how your background makes you a strong candidate.
• Join a Returnship Program: Returnships programs offer a structured way to gain relevant experience, rebuild confidence, and transition smoothly back into the workforce. These programs provide training, mentorship, and real-world exposure to help bridge the gap.
• Leverage Your Network: Connect with past colleagues, attend industry events, and join professional groups to uncover job opportunities and gain valuable insights.
• Showcase Your Skills in Interviews: Use specific examples to demonstrate how your career break experiences have strengthened your professional abilities. Employers value resilience, problem-solving, and initiative.

A career break doesn’t define your potential—it enriches it. By recognizing and leveraging your transferable skills, you can successfully navigate your return to work and step into new opportunities with confidence.

At Women Back to Work, we specialize in helping professionals relaunch their careers through mentorship, networking, and returnship opportunities. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, explore our Returnships programs and discover how we can support your journey back to the workforce. Join us today and turn your career comeback into a success story.

Interview Tips for 2025: Navigating the New Era of Hiring

The job market in 2025 is a dynamic landscape, constantly shifting with technological advancements and evolving employer expectations. In this evolving job market, where AI is increasingly involved in recruitment and remote work is becoming the norm, navigating the interview process requires a strategic and adaptable approach.

This is especially true for individuals returning to the workforce after a career break, who may face unique challenges and need to effectively communicate their value in a competitive landscape.

The AI Interviewer: How to Ace Interviews with AI-Powered Tools

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing recruitment. Many companies now use AI-powered tools to screen resumes, conduct initial interviews, and assess candidate responses.  According to Gartner,  60% of companies are utilizing AI technologies within their recruitment processes. These technologies encompass AI-powered screening tools, chatbots for initial candidate engagement, and AI-driven analysis of candidate resumes and social media profiles.

Job seekers should prepare by:

• Understanding AI Algorithms: Learn how applicant tracking systems (ATS) work and optimize your resume with relevant keywords tailored to the job description.
• Practicing with AI Interview Tools: Familiarize yourself with AI interview platforms. These tools often analyze tone, word choice, and body language during virtual assessments.
• Balancing Tech and Personality: While AI evaluates technical fit, the human touch is still crucial. Showcase your personality and unique value in subsequent interview stages.

The Gig Economy & Interviews: Navigating Contract & Freelance Interviews

The gig economy continues to thrive, offering opportunities for contract and freelance work. However, these interviews require a distinct approach:

• Showcase a Strong Portfolio: Highlight your best projects and client testimonials. A polished digital portfolio can leave a lasting impression.
• Demonstrate Immediate Value: Gig roles often demand quick results. Use specific examples to illustrate how you’ve hit the ground running in past roles.
• Discuss Flexibility and Availability: Employers value contractors who can adapt to changing priorities and schedules. Clearly communicate your availability and ability to scale your work.

Remote Work Revolution: Interviewing for Remote Positions in 2025

Remote work remains a dominant trend, and interviewing for remote roles requires extra preparation. Here’s how to stand out:

• Create a Professional Setup: Ensure your home office is well-lit, quiet, and distraction-free. Test your internet and video conferencing tools before the interview.
• Highlight Remote Work Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in self-motivation, time management, and virtual communication tools. Share examples of successful remote projects.
• Master Video Interview Etiquette: Dress professionally, maintain eye contact, and minimize interruptions. Practice with a friend or mentor to gain confidence.

Skills Gap & Upskilling: Interviewing with In-Demand Skills

As industries evolve, in-demand skills like AI/ML, cybersecurity, and data science are shaping hiring trends. Stay ahead by:

• Investing in Continuous Learning: Pursue certifications or online courses in trending skills. Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer accessible options.
• Showcasing Your Expertise: Highlight specific instances where you applied these skills to solve problems or drive results.
• Adapting to Emerging Needs: Research the company’s goals and tailor your examples to align with their vision for the future.

The job market in 2025 demands adaptability, preparation, and a proactive approach to interview challenges. By understanding the role of AI, preparing for gig and remote opportunities, and staying updated on in-demand skills, you can confidently navigate your career journey.

Are you ready to embrace the future of work? Women Back to Work (WBW) is here to support your career comeback. Explore our resources, mentorship programs, and job opportunities tailored for women ready to reenter the workforce. Reach out to us today to kickstart your journey!

Reclaiming Your Career: Navigating Parenthood and Career Goals with Confidence

Stepping back into the workforce after a career break for parenthood is a journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. The transition can feel daunting as you balance childcare demands with pursuing your professional goals. Yet, with the right mindset, strategic planning, and a strong support system, this phase can be a transformative experience, allowing you to thrive both at home and in your career.

This journey is not just about resuming your career—it’s about redefining it to align with your new priorities and aspirations. It’s an opportunity to leverage your unique experiences as a parent, build resilience, and embrace a fresh perspective on work-life balance

Here are five actionable tips to help you succeed as you embark on this exciting journey.

1. Set Priorities and Develop a Plan

• Define Realistic Goals: Identify clear, achievable career objectives and break them into smaller, manageable steps. This will help you maintain focus and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Create a Structured Schedule: Design a daily or weekly plan that integrates childcare, work commitments, and personal time. While flexibility is essential, a routine can bring order and reduce stress.
• Find Your Flow: Explore various time management techniques – from the Pomodoro Technique to time blocking – to discover what works best for you and optimize your workflow.

2. Communicate and Collaborate

• Partner Discussions: Open communication with your partner is vital. Collaborate on dividing childcare, household duties, and financial responsibilities equitably.
• Employer Conversations: Set expectations early on, regarding your childcare needs and explore options like remote work, flexible hours, or job sharing.
• Expand Your Support Network: Lean on family, friends, and fellow working parents for guidance and assistance. Explore childcare solutions such as daycare, nannies, or trusted family members.

3. Prioritize Your Well-Being

• Make Time for Yourself: Incorporate regular breaks into your day to recharge. Even a few minutes can boost your energy and mood.
• Stay Physically Active: Exercise is a proven stress reliever and enhances overall well-being. Find activities you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine.
• Protect Your Sleep: Prioritize restful sleep to ensure you can perform at your best both at work and home.

4. Stay Flexible and Embrace Change

• Prepare for the Unexpected: Life with children often brings surprises. Stay adaptable and adjust your plans and expectations when necessary.
• Leverage Technology: Use digital tools to streamline tasks, stay organized, and maintain effective communication.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Reach out to mentors, career coaches, or organizations dedicated to supporting working parents for advice and encouragement.

5. Invest in Your Professional Growth

• Upskill and Reskill: Stay competitive in your field by enrolling in training programs, attending webinars, or obtaining certifications. Many industries value candidates with up-to-date skills.
• Join Networking Groups: Engage with professional communities, especially those supporting returners, to expand your connections and discover opportunities.
• Leverage Career Support Services: Women Back to Work (WBW) offers tailored resources to help returners successfully navigate their career comeback.

Balancing parenthood and career goals demands dedication, resilience, and adaptability. By prioritizing your needs, fostering open communication, and remaining flexible, you can successfully navigate this phase and thrive in both spheres of your life. Celebrate every milestone, acknowledge your progress, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed—you deserve to flourish.

Your Career Comeback Starts Here!

At Women Back to Work, we specialize in empowering women to reclaim their careers after a break. Explore our PowerHour, networking opportunities, and job placement services tailored just for returners. Take the next step in your journey—contact us today.

Redefining Return-to-Work: The WBW Approach for Returner Success

Returning to work after a career break is both an exciting and challenging journey. At WBW, we understand that this transition requires more than just a job placement—it demands intentional preparation and ongoing support to ensure success. By providing the right resources, training, and mentorship, we empower returners to thrive in their new roles. Here’s how we do it.

Preparing returners and building confidence in the Workplace

When returners join Women Back to Work (WBW), our priority is comprehensive preparation. However, empowering returners is only part of the equation. At WBW, we also focus on educating hiring companies and their managers. Many hiring managers approach returners with preconceived notions, which can obscure the true potential of these skilled professionals. By addressing these biases through consistent effort and proven strategies, we’ve worked to debunk myths and reduce the stigma surrounding returners.

Facilitating open dialogue and building awareness has been instrumental in achieving exceptional outcomes. A cornerstone of this initiative is our Power Hour sessions. These sessions bring together industry experts and returners, providing opportunities to build critical skills, boost confidence, and establish valuable professional connections.

Over a decade of supporting returners has taught us a vital lesson: increasing visibility for returners among our clients significantly enhances their success. This approach instils confidence in both returners and employers, creating a pathway to long-term success. Employers gain talented, dedicated professionals, while returners receive the support they need to thrive. It’s a true win-win for everyone involved.

Related: Empowering Careers Through Connection and Growth: WBW Power Hour

Partnering with Employers for Success

The role of employers in setting up returners for success is essential. WBW works closely with organizations to create structured return-to-work programs, including clear onboarding processes, regular feedback loops, and continuous training opportunities.

Employers who prioritize flexibility are vital in this process. By offering hybrid/remote work models and access to professional development resources, they create environments where returners can thrive. Our partnerships with such employers ensure that returners are supported not only by WBW but also by the organizations they join.

The Impact of Setting Returners Up for Success

When returners are set up for success, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. Returners bring fresh perspectives, diverse experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose to their roles. Organizations gain from their resilience, adaptability, and drive to excel.

At WBW, we aim to ensure every returner’s journey is a success story. Through our training, and collaboration with employers, we are not just placing returners in roles—we are creating a future where their contributions shine.

Ready to restart your career with confidence? Join WBW and benefit from our powerful combination of training, mentorship, and employer collaboration to excel in your next role. Let’s redefine your future together.

Inclusive Leadership in 2025: Building Teams That Thrive

As organizations face rapid shifts in workplace dynamics, leadership styles must evolve to meet the demands of a diverse and interconnected workforce. Inclusive leadership has emerged as a cornerstone of success, emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and belonging to foster innovation and productivity. In 2025, this approach isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity.

The Essence of Inclusive Leadership

Inclusive leadership is about more than acknowledging differences; it’s about actively leveraging those differences to create value. Leaders who practice inclusivity build environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered to contribute their best.

This leadership style thrives on collaboration, ensuring that diverse voices are welcomed and prioritized. Inclusive leaders break down barriers by focusing on equity and belonging and create a shared sense of purpose across teams.

Inclusive leadership holds immense potential, yet many organizations fall short in evaluating, nurturing, acknowledging, and rewarding it effectively. According to RRA’s recent Diversity and Inclusion Pulse survey of over 1,800 global leaders, only 40% of executives believe their leadership is accountable for cultivating an inclusive culture.

Furthermore, just 35% reported that inclusive behaviours are considered a factor in leadership promotion decisions. These findings highlight a significant gap in aligning leadership practices with the principles of inclusivity.

Why Inclusive Leadership Is Critical in 2025

The modern workplace is defined by its diversity—of ideas, experiences, and backgrounds. Inclusive leadership enables organizations to harness this diversity effectively, resulting in measurable benefits:

1. Enhanced Innovation
   Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, challenging conventional thinking and fostering creativity. Inclusive leaders create the conditions for these ideas to flourish, enabling businesses to stay ahead in competitive markets.
2. Stronger Employee Engagement
   Employees who feel valued and included are more engaged and motivated. This engagement translates to higher productivity, lower turnover, and a more positive organizational culture.
3. Improved Organizational Resilience
   In a rapidly changing world, adaptability is key. Inclusive leaders build teams that are not only diverse in their skills but also united in their commitment to shared goals, enabling organizations to navigate challenges with agility.

Traits of an Inclusive Leader

Inclusive leaders embody certain key qualities that distinguish them:

• Empathy: They take the time to understand the experiences and challenges of their team members.
• Cultural Awareness: They are attuned to cultural nuances and respect individual differences.
• Openness to Feedback: They welcome diverse perspectives and actively seek out constructive input.
• Accountability: They hold themselves and their teams accountable for creating an equitable workplace.

Implementing Inclusive Leadership in Your Organization

Adopting inclusive leadership requires deliberate action and sustained commitment. Here are steps organizations can take to embed inclusivity into their leadership practices:

1. Provide DEI Training for Leaders
   Equip leaders with the skills to recognize and address unconscious biases while promoting equitable practices.
2. Foster an Open Culture
   Create spaces where employees feel safe to share their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment.
3. Celebrate Diversity
   Regularly acknowledge and celebrate the unique contributions of team members, whether through cultural events or recognition programs.
4. Mentor Underrepresented Talent
   Offer mentorship and sponsorship opportunities to individuals from underrepresented groups, helping them navigate career challenges and achieve their goals.

Akraya and Women Back to Work: Champions of Inclusion

At Akraya, inclusive leadership is not just a guiding principle—it’s a practice embedded in everything we do. From sourcing diverse talent to providing opportunities for women returners through Women Back to Work (WBW), we actively champion inclusivity as a driver of success. Our initiatives are designed to empower individuals and create pathways for growth, proving that inclusive leadership is not only beneficial but essential in today’s workplace.

Inclusive leadership is more than a buzzword—it’s the foundation of thriving organizations in 2025 and beyond. By embracing diversity, fostering equity, and creating a culture of belonging, leaders can unlock their teams’ full potential, driving innovation, collaboration, and growth.

As we move forward, the call to action is clear: lead inclusively, and the results will speak for themselves. Together, let’s build workplaces that not only adapt to change but thrive because of it.

At Akraya and Women Back to Work (WBW), we believe inclusive leadership isn’t just the future—it’s the standard for success. Ready to make a difference?

For Employers/clients: Partner with Akraya to build diverse, high-performing teams that thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

For Job Seekers and Returners: Join our WBW’S community and discover opportunities where your unique talents are celebrated.

Let’s work together to shape a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable future. Contact us today to take the first step!