Case Studies

Women on Boards: Pioneering Inclusion in Adria

Overview

Women on Boards Adria (WOBA) is a regional non-profit initiative launched under the auspices of the ESG Adria Summit to promote and drive greater inclusion of women in corporate boardrooms across the Adriatic region. One of its primary goals is to break down entry barriers for women in leadership roles. Empowered by the resilience of young women and girls navigating their careers, WOBA introduced the “Gender Diverse Panels for Inclusive Discussions” initiative to foster inclusive dialogue and representation.

Challenge

The Adriatic region faces significant gender disparities in corporate governance, with a low percentage of women in leadership positions. Cultural and institutional barriers hinder women’s advancement in the workplace, limiting opportunities for diverse leadership.

Approach

Envisioned by Biljana Braithwaite and with Sustineri Partners as one of the Founding Corporate Partners, WOBA addresses these challenges through a multifaceted approach. The initiative focuses on talent development by providing training and mentoring programmes that equip professionals—regardless of gender—with a deep understanding of board-level and executive roles, preparing them for their career progression. Furthermore, WOBA seeks to build a robust leadership network, empowering talented women to excel in their careers through training and mentoring provided by accomplished leaders. In addition, WOBA engages in policy advocacy, offering research and expertise to strengthen political will and develop legal frameworks that address the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles across the region.

Impact

WOBA has successfully engaged over 100 companies, raising awareness of the importance of gender diversity in corporate boards. The initiative has facilitated the placement of women in key leadership roles, fostering sustainable governance practices and contributing to societal progress in the region. So far, 13 Gender Equality Champions have signed the Gender Diverse Panels Pledge, and 28 WOBA Ambassadors have committed to working towards making a difference in the corporate Adria. The following steps include expanding mentorship and training programs and continuing to advocate for gender equality in leadership.