The First. The Few. The Only.
The Trailblazer. The Role model. The Token.
Women, and women of colour in particular, are often bearers of these crowns – whether or not we want to.
In Denmark as in many other corporate cultures, authenticity is valued, yet for us, women of colour, many feel pressure to “blend in.” Something seemingly as mundane as choosing a hairstyle and clothing for work can be a time and energy consuming exercise. Some women report shying away from wearing their hair in braids and straightening their hair instead.
Research from Tænketanken EQUALIS shows that among women in Denmark, women of non‑Danish origin fare worst in leadership representation, salary, and net worth. While women hold 28% of upper‑level management roles, fewer than 0.03% of non‑Danish women are CEOs or Directors.
For many, being part of that 0.03%, being The First or The Only can be a double-edged sword: The pride in ones achievement is sometimes tempered by feelings of not belonging (Imposter Syndrome). There are frequent conversations with one’s self on how authentic could I be? How much do I need to mold myself to fit in? Where is the line between showing cultural intelligence and suppressing my identity?
We doubt. We code-switch. We blend in.
We must keep in mind that our experiences, perspectives, and identities are strengths and not obstacles.
Our voice and lived experience bring fresh perspectives, our background opens new connections, and our presence expands what leadership looks like.
The way we show up at work matters. Our heritage, experiences, and worldview are not barriers. They are differentiators. They help us offer perspectives that can drive innovation and problem‑solving. McKinsey’s Diversity Wins report found that companies in the top quartile for ethnic diversity are 36% more likely to outperform on profitability.
We must remember that representation reshapes opportunities and when we claim our space authentically, it makes it easier for others to enter and thrive. Authenticity builds trust, as the majority of people respond positively to person who are met in a space of truth.
So own your story:
👉🏽 Tell your story selectively and powerfully using short, concrete examples that link your experience to business outcomes.
👉🏽 Set visible boundaries and priorities by saying no to overload to protect your energy and enable focus.
👉🏽 Celebrate small wins publicly by sharing on organisation channels and in team meetings.
hashtag#Ownyourstory. Celebrate your uniqueness. Lean into organisations that meet you where you are and help move you forward.
ProWoc is committed to increasing the visibility and impact of women of colour in Denmark. Join us as we support you in being authentically you and owning your story.
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This is #1 in a 10-part series Thriving in the Workplace. Watch this space every Tuesday for inspirational content.
Image by Sachelle inspired by an image by Charlotta. Text by Phaedria
