The atmosphere at Roastbrief is vibrant, charged with expectation and energy, just as you would expect on a day that celebrates female talent. Isabel Cerdeira, the CEO of Spark Foundry, arrives with a radiant smile that lights up the room. Her presence exudes confidence and determination, reflecting the trajectory of a woman who has defied obstacles and opened doors in a predominantly male-dominated business world. Sitting across from me, ready to share her ideas and experiences, the interview begins.
In the current context, where women play crucial roles, what are, from your perspective, the challenges they still face?
Isabel nods, taking a moment to reflect before answering. “For me, there are two key issues that need to be addressed,” she begins. “First, the persistent wage gap between men and women for jobs of equal value. This is a major challenge in Mexico that still requires attention and action. Second, it is critical to have leaders who understand and support the diverse roles we women play in our lives. Female leadership plays a crucial role in this, as they can understand and advocate for these issues.”
Why do you consider it essential to strengthen women’s empowerment in all sectors?
She expresses with conviction, “The fact that we are still talking about Women’s Day and celebrating stories of empowerment shows that we have not yet reached the desired point. While some companies have made progress towards equality, others still have some way to go. It is essential to strengthen women’s empowerment to ensure that all sectors offer equal opportunities and spaces to grow.”
What strategies have you seen working to achieve equal employment opportunities?
Isabel reflects on the changes she has observed in the industry over time. “Increasingly, we see a balance in the inclusion of female leadership. There is a generational and societal shift that has allowed for greater inclusion in our industry. This has resulted in greater flexibility to handle the different roles we play as women, allowing us to advance our careers without sacrificing our personal lives. It’s about providing equal opportunity based on talent, regardless of gender.”
What advice would you give women to excel professionally?
Kind, she smiles and shares with us her personal philosophy. “I strongly believe that continuous learning is key to growth. Whether young or experienced, there is always something new to discover and learn. In a world where the speed of change is ever increasing, taking time to keep learning is essential to excel in the workplace.”
Finally, what is your inspirational quote?
“Having clarity about what success means to you,” he answers without hesitation. “It’s important to define your own goals and objectives, and work towards them with determination and passion.”
With each answer, Isabel Cerdeira demonstrates not only her experience and knowledge, but also her commitment to the cause of gender equality and female empowerment in the workplace. Her voice resonates with authority and hope, reminding us of the transformative power women have when given the opportunity to shine.
