Empowering Change: Fostering Female Representation in Adria’s Decision-Making

17/11/2023

At Women on Boards Adria (WOBA), we believe that talent, ambition and potential are equitably distributed among all genders. Our region continues to grapple with gender disparities in the business sphere and the missed opportunities for growth and progress that represents. In a world still predominantly influenced by male culture, the gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles still persists.

That is why our mission at WOBA is to advocate for equal opportunities for both men and women in senior positions across the Adria region.

Significance: Why It Matters?

Elevating the representation of women in leadership not only leads to better financial performance but also bolsters a company’s reputation, investor confidence, and stakeholder engagement. Studies affirm a positive correlation between gender balance in leadership and a company’s overall ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance. Inclusive leadership isn’t just good for business—it’s beneficial for our societies and our planet.

Our Commitment and Approach

Collaborating with our partners, advisory board members, ambassadors, and supporters, our collective mission is to drive an upsurge in gender diversity within boards and C-level positions. Through advocating legislative reforms grounded in European best practices and research, offering training, and mentoring, and establishing supportive professional networks, we aim to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from entering boardrooms and accelerate their progression to senior management roles in the Adria region.

Collaborative Alliances and Future Announcements

At Women on Boards Adria, we rely on institutional, corporate, and individual support, along with strategic partnerships with international, regional, and national organizations, all aligned toward promoting gender equality across the region. In the weeks to come, we will proudly announce our partners in this mission, true leaders in our joint goal of advocating greater gender equality.

Join Us in Driving Change

Membership in the WOBA association is open to all who wish to contribute to positive change, advance their skills, build careers, and become part of a supportive network of like-minded individuals and organizations.

We invite you to join us in our mission to promote gender equality and become part of a community that champions change and actively contributes to building a more inclusive and gender-diverse society.

Latest News

Board Readiness Programme Launches in Belgrade

Board Readiness Programme Launches in Belgrade

As organisations face increasing complexity and uncertainty, the need for strong, diverse leadership has never been clearer. The Women on Boards Adria Board Readiness Programme in Belgrade brought together women leaders ready to engage seriously with the...

Pink October: A Reminder That Care Is Strength

Pink October: A Reminder That Care Is Strength

Every October, the world turns pink, a colour that symbolises not just awareness, but courage, care, and community. For Women on Boards Adria, this month serves as a reminder that leadership also means advocating for wellbeing, our own and that of others. We are proud...

Board Readiness Programme Launches in Skopje

Board Readiness Programme Launches in Skopje

The Women on Boards Adria Board Readiness Programme began in Skopje with a group of women leaders from across the region who are preparing for board and senior leadership roles. From the first session, the programme set a clear tone: practical learning, honest...

Meet WOBA Members: Ana Pepeljugoska

Meet WOBA Members: Ana Pepeljugoska

Some careers are built step by step. Others are shaped by the ability to see far beyond boundaries. For Ana Pepeljugoska, Partner at Pepeljugoski Law Office in Skopje, it has been both. From a double LL.M. in Strasbourg to a PhD in Skopje, from local cases to...

Meet WOBA Members: Mateja Papež

Meet WOBA Members: Mateja Papež

When offered her first managerial position, Mateja Papež hesitated. That’s when she received a piece of advice that would shape everything that followed: “Take the opportunity. If it’s too demanding, you can always turn back — but don’t regret not trying.” Now, Mateja...

Meet WOBA Members: Tatjana Davčev

Meet WOBA Members: Tatjana Davčev

Tatjana Davčev believes real leadership isn’t defined by spotlight moments — it’s about learning to expect, and work through, the many “no”s along the way. In this edition of the Meet WOBA Members series, we spoke with a woman who’s spent over two decades in law,...