It has been rewarding to participate in From Harvard Square to the Oval Office, which was offered by Women and Public Policy Program, Harvard Kennedy School. In addition to learning practical skills on women leadership and running for public offices, I was inspired by other women of my cohort who are very committed to bring meaningful changes in the world.
Women account for only 26 percent of parliamentarians worldwide. Just 13 countries have a woman Head of State, and 15 countries have a woman Head of Government. Women in leadership positions have a multiplying effect. Exposure to women leaders decreases gender bias and improve women’s future electoral prospects. Women’s electoral success leads to an increase in female candidacy in subsequent elections. Female leaders’ presence narrows the gender gap in girls’ aspirations and advancement in education.
The world needs more women leaders.
“From Harvard Square to the Oval Office (“Oval Office”) is a non-partisan, co-curricular political training program of the Women and Public Policy Program that provides a select group of Harvard graduate students with the tools and support they need to ascend in the electoral process at the local, state, and national levels. The Oval Office program is designed to inspire students to run for office through hands-on trainings, by growing their networks, and by connecting them with an array of leaders who serve as role models to the cohort.”
