Why Does Female Leadership Break Through the Status Quo? - Streetsblog USA

"The cities of the future need to find a new way of thinking, one that is resilient in the face of ongoing change and more inclusive of the diverse populations that make up communities and the realities they face. The good news is, as we have seen throughout the process of researching and writing our book Women Changing Cities: Global Stories of Urban Transformation, many cities are already taking this step and can provide the inspiration for positive change globally."

"The tales in this book are a result of brave leaders breaking through the status quo to create cities and spaces that meet the needs of everyone, not just those with the greatest means or loudest voices. The fact that the changemakers featured here are all women points to a commonality in how they approach their roles as advocates, decision makers, thought leaders and politicians. Although no two stories are the same, five common themes run through these stories:"

Cities must abandon 20th-century mindsets that prioritize progress over people and adopt resilient, inclusive approaches that reflect diverse urban realities. Many cities are already pursuing these approaches and can inspire positive global change. Brave leaders are breaking the status quo to create cities and spaces that meet everyone’s needs, not only the wealthy or loudest voices. Women changemakers demonstrate common approaches as advocates, decision-makers, thought leaders and politicians. Empathy and listening to all city voices form the foundation of urban transformation. Understanding barriers in transportation, access to public spaces, economic opportunity, and personal and social safety is essential to shaping effective urban spaces.

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