Organizations must transform to meet the increasingly complicated demands of today’s business climate, observes Duygu Alptekin Gürsu, a world-renowned executive coach with nearly three decades of experience. Competencies such as empathy, collaboration and development of others (at which women naturally thrive) are desperately needed in high-level leadership positions, and yet, women remain underutilized and significantly underrepresented.
“I have witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers that prevent women from stepping into leadership roles, despite their qualifications and capabilities,” Gürsu said.
In her compelling new book, Empowering Women on the Way to the Top: A Comprehensive Guide for Advancing Women’s Leadership, Gürsu champions a clarion call for lasting, measurable change in leadership dynamics. Drawing from years of experience in leadership development, she examines the unique pressures women leaders face—from societal expectations to workplace inequities. But Gürsu doesn’t just highlight the challenges. She provides actionable strategies to empower women, organizations and male allies to take action.
“At the end of the day, gender equality in leadership is a journey we all must take together,” Gürsu said. “When men and women collaborate, respecting each other’s unique strengths and capabilities, the result is a stronger and more innovative, adaptable organization.”
Blending inspiration and practical advice, Empowering Women on the Way to the Top is more than a guide. It’s a movement that brings together years of experience, global insights and a research-based approach to creating real change.
“I want readers to walk away with the understanding that leadership is not a predefined mold; women bring unique strengths — like empathy, collaboration, and resilience —that make them exceptional leaders,” she added. “By embracing these qualities and addressing the barriers in their path, women can confidently claim their rightful place at the top.”
Duygu Alptekin Gürsu is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning leadership and team coach and keynote speaker who brings a wealth of experience from her exceptional 29-year career as a woman business leader and executive coach. She holds the esteemed Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential and is among the first to earn the Advanced Certified Team Coach (ACTC) designation from the International Coach Federation. She is dedicated to unlocking the full potential of top and mid-level executives, high-potential individuals and executive management teams in global corporations.
