Mariana Missakian, a successful corporate professional, had always planned to start a family once she felt secure in her career. However, after giving birth to her baby boy and returning to work post-maternity leave, she was faced with a tough choice. She was told by her employer to choose between her family and her job, leading to a heartbreaking moment for Mariana.
Transitioning from being a working professional to a full-time mother brought forth conflicts and challenges for Mariana. The judgment and lack of commitment accusations in the workplace made her question her new role as a mother. This pivotal moment prompted her to embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery, accepting her new responsibilities while advocating for better support for mothers in leadership positions.
Mariana’s experience highlights the conflict that arises when transitioning from one season of life to another. She emphasizes the importance of embracing change and transformation, as each season brings new opportunities for growth. Through her advocacy work and doctoral research, Mariana aims to shed light on the unique hurdles faced by mothers in the workplace, advocating for increased representation and support for women in leadership roles.
One of the key issues Mariana addresses is the concept of a motherhood penalty, where mothers experience economic disadvantages and career setbacks compared to their childless counterparts. This penalty contributes to gender inequality in the workforce and inhibits women’s career progression. Mariana advocates for mother-inclusive workplaces that support women through all the seasons of their lives, from pregnancy to menopause.
Gender diversity and leadership gap are crucial topics in contemporary workplace discussions. Mariana emphasizes the need for more nuanced discussions around closing the gender leadership gap, focusing on inclusion and equity rather than just diversity numbers. She believes that supporting mothers through their journey of motherhood is essential to closing the gender leadership gap and ensuring that mothers are represented in leadership positions and decision-making processes.
In conclusion, Mariana Missakian’s journey from a successful corporate professional to a full-time mother highlights the challenges faced by women in balancing their careers and motherhood. Her advocacy work and research aim to create mother-inclusive workplaces and address the motherhood penalty, contributing to a more equitable and supportive environment for women in the workforce. Embracing change and accepting new roles and responsibilities are essential for personal growth and success in different seasons of life.
