The upcoming International Women’s Day in 2026 will spotlight the theme “Give to Gain,” underscoring the significance of reciprocity and mutual support in building a more equitable world. This year’s focus centers on advancing women’s roles within the project management profession. Nithiyasri Ganapathy, a project management student and APM Volunteer, shares her insights into the collaborative efforts female project professionals are making to uplift one another.
Ganapathy emphasizes that closing the skills gap for women in project management cannot be achieved merely through salary increases or awareness campaigns. Instead, she advocates for structural changes within organizations. Research conducted by APM highlights that barriers to progression still exist, hence it’s crucial for employers to ensure equitable hiring practices, transparent promotion pathways, and inclusive leadership. Collaborations with universities and local authorities are fundamental to creating a robust pipeline for future female professionals.
She notes that while competencies in project management are generally gender-neutral, certain skills are particularly beneficial. For example, strategic influence, political intelligence, and effective boundary-setting are essential for navigating complex environments and ensuring project success. These competencies enhance leadership visibility and effectiveness, which are vital in high-stakes situations.
Addressing the challenge of mental health, Ganapathy reports that a significant percentage of women—61%—have expressed that their involvement in main projects negatively impacts their wellbeing. However, she also points to positive developments, such as the introduction of mental health first aiders, flexible working arrangements, and training programs aimed at equipping managers to recognize burnout signs early. Yet, she advocates for a more proactive approach to workload management, highlighting the importance of realistic scheduling and resource allocation to mitigate chronic stress, particularly for women who often carry emotional and relational burdens at work.
Reflecting on the “Give to Gain” theme, Ganapathy outlines the benefits of senior professionals sharing their time and expertise with junior colleagues. She asserts that such mentorship accelerates learning and strengthens the organization’s future capability. Knowledge transfer enhances succession planning, reduces risks associated with governance, and fosters a supportive work environment that nurtures talent and builds confidence.
Ganapathy expresses a desire to thrive in settings where collaboration and knowledge-sharing are prioritized, such as within the Women in Project Management Interest Network under the Association of Project Management. Here, sharing failures as learning experiences and fostering ambition create an invaluable environment for early-career professionals.
Through these reflections, Ganapathy illustrates how supporting each other in the project profession can yield significant benefits, not just for individuals but for organizations as a whole. Promoting a culture of shared knowledge and support ultimately leads to greater success and resilience within the industry.