I approached my thesis with great enthusiasm, as the number of women in my environment who serve as both leaders and managers is quite limited. Finding and connecting with these women was not an easy task. However, it became clear that recognizing the value of these rare individuals, supporting them, and creating opportunities for them was crucial.

With this intention in mind, I set out to explore their experiences. I sought to understand their challenges, share their stories, and engage in meaningful dialogue. The findings of my research led to some fascinating conclusions. I was particularly surprised by the numerous commonalities that emerged from the experiences of these women.

The gender-related challenges they face are strikingly similar, whether in personal life or in the professional world. Societal gender roles, coupled with geographical and cultural differences, have often led many highly capable women to live ordinary lives, silencing their potential and, in many cases, causing them to act out of fear or regret. This has been to the detriment of society, particularly in our country. Women's empathy, emotional intelligence, and communication skills are fundamental to their success and should be recognized as essential assets in both personal and professional settings.

Ph. D. Seyyide ELBEYLI KOC