The Most Inspirational Women In Business To Look Out For In 2024 | CIO Women Magazine

Ashwini D.

“I think the best role models for women are people who are fruitfully and condently themselves, who bring light into the world.”

— Meryl Streep

Beyond the Boundaries!

Inaworldwheretheboundariesofopportunityareconstantlyexpanding,it'simperativetorecognize andcelebratethetrailblazerswhoareshapingthelandscapeofbusinesstoday.OurlatestissueofCIO WomenMagazineisdedicatedtohonoringthemostinspirationalwomeninbusiness,individuals whosevision,resilience,andleadershiparepropellingindustriesforwardandbreakingbarriersalong theway.

Aswestepinto2024,it'sevidentthatthetraditionalnarrativeofcorporateleadershipisundergoinga profoundtransformation.Womenacrosstheglobeareseizingopportunities,challengingnorms,and redefiningsuccessontheirownterms.Fromtechinnovatorstosustainabilitychampions,ourcurated listofinfluentialwomenshowcasesthediversetalentsandperspectivesdrivingchangeacrossvarious sectors.

Withinthesepages,you'llfindcompellingstoriesofperseverance,innovation,andtriumph.Wedelve intothejourneysofwomenwhohaveovercomeadversity,shatteredglassceilings,andpavedtheway forfuturegenerations.Theirexperiencesserveasatestamenttothepowerofresilienceandthe limitlesspotentialthatexistswithineachofus.

Onthecover,wehavefeaturedtheinspiringstoryofDawnChristine(theOwnerofDawnChristine ArchitectPLLC).Knownforherexperientialapproachtoarchitecture,Christinecraftsspacesthat transcendtraditionalaesthetics,offeringaharmoniousblendofformandfunctionthatresonatesdeeply withclients’aspirations.Herfirm’scommitmenttounderstandingandtransformingthehuman experiencethrougharchitecturaldesignsetsherapartasaluminaryinthefield.

Weinviteyoutojoinusonthisjourneyofinspiration,empowerment,andtransformation.Together, let'samplifythevoicesofwomeninbusinessandchampionafuturewheretalentknowsnogender.As welookaheadtotheyear2024andbeyond,letusdrawinspirationfromtheextraordinarywomenwho continuetoshapetheworldofbusinessandpavethewayforabrighter,moreinclusivefuture.

20 COVER STORY Dawn

Christine

10 First Lady Women

The Versatile Sports Woman: Ellyse Perry

30 Monuments

Big Ben: The Heartbeat of London Chiming through the Echoes of History

38 Article

Strategies forAdvancingYour CareerAGuide for Women in Management

Perry THE VERSATILE SPORTS WOMAN Eyse

se per

EllysePerry’sEarlyLife

I“I know what sport has given to me in my life, what opportunities I’ve had, and the lessons I’ve learned about myself and about life.”

Ellyse Perry, a renowned Australian cricketer and soccer player, has won the hearts of many with her exceptional sporting skills from her early teenage days. She was the youngest cricketer to play in international cricket and her passion for the sport and versatile skills led her to where she's today. In this article, we will learn about her life, challenges, and accomplishments.

EllyseAlexanderPerrywasbornon3rd November1990,inthefamilyofMarkand KathyPerryinthesuburbofWahroonga, Sydney.Shecompletedherschoolingat BeecroftPrimarySchoolandparticipatedin varioussportsliketennis,athletics,touch football,andgolf.Shecompletedher graduationfromPymbleLadies'College, whereshewassportscaptainaswell.

Shespentherchildhoodplayingcricketwith herolderbrotherinherbackyard,wherehe usedtopracticeforschoolcricket.Shesaidthat herfatherandbrotherinspiredhertochoose thesportsindustry.MarkPerrywasaclub-level cricketerandusedtoteachhertoplay Apart fromherfatherandbrother,watchingsports alsoplayedabigrole.Shesaidsheloved watchingAustralianteamsplaybothmenand womenwhilegrowingup.

In2018onherXhandle,whileansweringher fans,shesaid, “I was fortunate to be born in an area when the Australian team was so successful. Those were the days of Steve Waugh, Rickey Ponting, and Adam Gilchrist, Lisa Sthalekar, Belinda Clarke. They used to play for Australia and were just amazing to watch. I don’t really know why I picked No. 8 as my jersey number. I think I was just given it actually, but I don’t like odd numbers, so as long as it is an even number, I don’t mind what number it is.”

TheRiseoftheAll-Rounder

EllysePerrymadeherinternationalcricket debutforAustraliain2007attheageof16, beforeevenplayingattheseniordomestic level.Initially,Perryfilledthegapleftby retiredfastbowlerCathrynFitzpatrick. However,shealsohadapromisingsoccer careerandrepresentedtheMatildas. Eventually,shecommittedtocricketwhen CricketAustraliaofferedheracontractin2008. Despitethis,Perrycontinuedtorepresent AustraliainWorldCupfootball,becomingthe firstwomantorepresentthecountryinWorld Cupsintwosports.Sheevenplayedfor SydneyFCintheWomen'sLeague.

Perrymadeheadlinesevenbefore herTestdebutin2008.Her impressiveperformanceinaT20I matchagainstEngland,whereshe scoredanunbeaten29andtookfour wickets,helpedAustraliasecurea victory.Initially,herbowlingskills stoodout,assheachievedherfirst five-wickethaulinanODIagainst NewZealandinFebruary2010. Perrycontinuedtoexcel,leadingthe AustralianteamastheirtopwickettakerintheWomen'sWorldT20in theCaribbean.Heroutstanding performanceinthefinal,whereshe tookthreewickets,playedacrucial roleinrestrictingNewZealand'srun chase.

Perryalsoplayedavitalrolein Australia'sfourconsecutiveWorld Cupvictories,withherheroic performanceinthe2013Women's WorldCupfinalagainstWestIndies, whereshebowled10oversandtook threewicketsdespitebeinginjured andinpain.Between2014and2019, sheachievedremarkableresultsin theAshes,includingadouble centuryinSydneyandanother centuryinTaunton.In2015,she contributedimmenselytoAustralia's Ashesvictorybytakingnine wickets,eventhoughshemissedout withthebat.Perry'sbattingskills reachednewheightsinthelatterpart ofthedecade,makinghera consistentandreliablerun-scorerfor theSydneySixersintheBigBash.

Everythingseemedtobegoingwell forPerry'sparticipationintheT20 WorldCuponhomesoilin2020. However,duringagroupmatch againstNewZealand,shesuffereda severehamstringinjury,which forcedhertomisstheknockout stageofthetournament.

Nonetheless,shestoodwithherteam astheyliftedthetrophyinfrontof 86,000cheeringfansattheMCG.

Eyse Perry

Her Victories and Awards Throughout the Year

EllysePerryhaswonnumerousawardsinhersportingcareer,bothincricketandsoccer.Here's thelistoftheawards.

Award Won Year

Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award

ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year

ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade

ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade

Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer in the World

ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Player of the Final

Women’s Ashes Player of the Series

Belinda Clark Award

One of the ve Wisden Cricketers of the Year

Women’s National Cricket League Player of the Tournament

Women’s National Cricket League Player of the Final

Women’s Big Bash League Player of the Tournament

Belinda Clark Medal

Cricket NSW Rising Star

Sydney Sixers Player of the Season

Sports NSW Athlete of the Year

Australia Post Legend of Cricket

W-League Young Player of the Year

Canberra United Player of the Year

2017–18, 2018–19

EllysePerryasAuthor:HerInterestInWriting

EllysePerry,apartfrombeingarenownedsportspersonality,receivedapproachesforherautobiographyandproceededto publishabook'Perspective'in2019.PerspectivecoverstheexperiencesofEllysePerryasanelitefemaleathleteandherlife. InaninterviewwithVogue,shesaid,

“Initially I was a bit reluctant to do it, I didn’t really want to write something about my life story. I’ve kind of had a pretty smooth sailing journey.”

Shealsoaddedthat,

“I started to think that [it] would be really cool because I don’t think there are heaps of female athlete books out there like that, so I kind of got excited about it. We sat down and discussed some concepts and came up with a collection of short essays.”

Beforeherbiography,shealwayshadaninterestinwritingandhadpublishedfourchildren'sbookswithSherrylClark, namely,

• EllysePerry1:PocketRocket(2016)

• EllysePerry2:MagicFeet(2016)

• EllysePerry3:WinningTouch(2017)

• EllysePerry4:DoubleTime(2017)

Interesting Facts About Ellyse Perry

EllysePerryistrulyuniqueintheworldofsports.Sheistheonlycricketerwhohas representedAustraliainboththeCricketandSoccerWorldCups.Thisshowsherincredible abilitytoexcelintwoverydifferentsports.

EllysePerrymadehistoryasthefirstfemalecricketertoaccomplishanamazingfeatinT20 Internationals.Shescored1,000runsandtook100wickets,showcasingherincredibletalentand skillsintheshortestformatofthegame.

Inadditiontoherachievementsonthefield,EllysePerry'simpactreachesbeyondcricketthrough endorsementdealswithtopbrandslikeAdidasandMastercard.Thesepartnershipshighlighther popularityandappeal,notjustasacricketer,butasamarketablefigure.

EllysePerryachievedanincrediblemilestoneinTestmatchesbyscoringanunbeaten213runs, whichisthehighestindividualscorebyanAustralianwoman.Thisremarkableachievement showcasesherabsolutedominancewiththebatandherexceptionalskillsinthegame.

EllysePerryisthefirstAustraliancricketertoscoreover6,000runsandtakemorethan300 wicketsininternationalmatches.

EllysePerryhasgainedrecognitionas notjusttheyoungestinternational cricketer,butalsoasaversatileand talentedwoman.Shehadachieveda lotsinceherdebutatasmallageand neverlookedback.Herdedication towardsherdreamsandvisionoflife iscommendableandinspirational.

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Dawn Christine

PIONEERING INNOVATION IN ARCHITECTURE

OWNER | Dawn Christine Architect PLLC

Cover Story

Thearchitecturalindustryhasevolveddramaticallyfromitsearlydays,expandingbeyondmere structuraldesignstoembodytheinnovativefusionoffunctionalityandartisticexpression.Asthe fieldhasgrown,sohasitsleaders’diversity Womenhaveincreasinglytakenthehelminthis traditionallymale-dominatedfield,bringingfreshperspectivesandtransformativeideasthat challengeconventionalboundaries.Theirriseinarchitecturereflectsabroadershifttowards inclusivityinprofessionalrealmsandhighlightsthecriticalroleofvisionaryleadershipinshaping ourbuiltenvironments.

DawnChristine,theOwnerofDawnChristineArchitectPLLC,isonesuchtrailblazingfigure. Knownforherexperientialapproachtoarchitecture,Christinecraftsspacesthattranscend traditionalaesthetics,offeringaharmoniousblendofformandfunctionthatresonatesdeeplywith clients’aspirations.Herfirm’scommitmenttounderstandingandtransformingthehuman experiencethrougharchitecturaldesignsetsherapartasaluminaryinthefield.Asaninspirational womaninbusiness,Christinenotonlyshapesskylinesbutalsopavesthewayforfuture generationsofwomenleadersinarchitecture,demonstratingthatcreativityandleadershipknow nobounds.

ArchitecturalJourney

Christine’sprofessionaljourneycommencedduringhighschoolwhensheexploredfashion marketingandinteriordesignatasummercampinMiami.Encouragedbyherfather’ssuggestion, shepursuedarchitecture,whichledhertotheUniversityofFloridaforherundergraduatestudies andlatertoNCStateforgraduateschool.Followingthebirthofherson,shebalanced motherhoodwhilelaunchingCrossworks,acontemporaryChristianartbusiness,beforereturning tocompleteherarchitecturaldegree.Afteracriticaldecisiontoprioritizeherstudies,shejoineda localarchitectinRaleigh,whereshehonedherskillsfor16years.Despitechallenges,includinga divorceandfinancialconstraints,Christinefeltaninternalpushtopursueherpassionfordesign. Withaleapoffaith,shefoundedherfirm,DawnChristine,ArchitectPLLC,andembarkedona journeymarkedbynotableprojects,collaborations,andindustryrecognition.

OvercomingChallenges

ThroughoutChristine’sjourneyfrombeingayoungsinglemotherandstudenttobecominga successfulwomanleader,sheencounterednumerouschallenges.Drawingfromherupbringing, wherehermotherinstilledresiliencethroughbusyschedulesandextracurricularactivities, Christinelearnedearlyontoperseverethroughsetbacks.Asacompetitivefigureskater,she embracedtheexperienceoffalling,bruising,andenduringpainwithoutlettingitdeterher These formativeexperiencesshapedherapproachtodifficulties,emphasizingtheimportanceof resilienceanddetermination.Additionally,Christine’sfaithplayedasignificantroleinhercoping mechanism.AnchoredbybiblicalversessuchasJames1:2-4,whichencouragedhertoconsider trialsasopportunitiesforgrowth,andRomans8:28,whichreinforcedherbeliefthatallthings worktogetherforgood,Christinefoundstrengthandpurposeinheradversities.Armedwiththis mindset,shefacedchallengeshead-on,viewingthemassteppingstonestowardpersonaland professionalgrowth.

Roles&Responsibilities

Christineisresponsiblefordirectingalldesigndecisionsfromconceptualizationtofinal documentation.Astheprimarycreativeforce,sheensuresthateachprojectreflectshervisionand direction,overseeingbothcreativeandtechnicalaspectstomaintaincohesionthroughoutthe process.Whileshecollaborateswithanassociatearchitectforstructuralconsiderations, Christine’smeticulousinvolvementguaranteesthefidelityofthedesigntoherinitialcreativeidea.

Differentiating Factors

Experiential Design Approach: Christine is recognized as an experiential architect, crafting buildings with a unique focus on how individuals “experience” space and form. Unlike traditional architects who prioritize form before space, Christine’s approach begins from the inside out, considering each client’s needs and the emotional journey through the architecture. By layering perspectives and creating a multi-dimensional canvas, she shapes environments that inspire and evoke emotion, turning homes into inviting spaces for sacred and everyday moments.

Comprehensive VII Phase Design Process: The rm’s VII Phase Design Process is lauded by clients for its clarity and effectiveness. Starting with the Needs and Options Review, the process establishes project expectations and empowers clients with 3-dimensional visualizations to experience their spaces before construction begins. From conceptualization to nal drawings for permit and construction, Christine transitions seamlessly from artist to engineer, ensuring that each detail is meticulously addressed to bring clients’ dreams to life.

Proven Track Record: Numerous positive client reviews conrm the rm’s ability to exceed expectations and deliver dream homes. Clients praise Christine for her expertise, industry experience, and personalized approach, which results in seamless experiences from design through execution. With a keen focus on listening to clients’ wants, dreams, and budget constraints, Christine consistently produces innovative design solutions that delight her clients.

Unique Pre-design Service: The rm offers a valuable pre-design service, the Needs and Options Review, addressing common challenges in project communication and feasibility assessment. This service helps clients articulate their ideas effectively, dene project constraints, and understand design and budget requirements upfront. By providing clarity and condence early in the project development process, the Needs and Options Review streamlines decision-making. It sets clients on a solid path toward realizing their project vision.

UniqueDesignApproach

DawnChristineArchitectPLLCoffersadistinctive seven-phasedesignprocess,beginningwitha conceptualexplorationthattransitionsfrombroad artisticstrokestotechnicalengineering considerations.Settingthemselvesapart,thefirm employsa3D-centricapproach,whereeverydrawing isrenderedinthreedimensionstoallowclientsto envisionandexperiencethedesign’sbeautyand functionalityfully.Unlikeconventionalpractices, whererelianceon2Drenderingscanleadto discrepanciesduringconstruction,DawnChristine ArchitectPLLCensuresclaritybyprovidingdetailed 3Dmodelsthatguidecontractorsandengineersto bringthecreativevisiontolifeaccurately.Christine’s backgroundinfineartsandherunconventional designphilosophy,influencedbyherstudiesatthe UniversityofFloridaandherthesison“Architecture: Experiencingartthroughspaceandtime”atNC State,shapesherapproach.Emphasizingthe

Cover Story

experientialaspectofarchitecture,herdesignstranscendmere structures,evokingemotionsandchallengingconventionalnorms. Thisuniqueperspectivehasgarneredpraiseandacclaim,with clientsappreciatingthetransformationofordinaryspacesinto extraordinaryexperiences.

StrategicDesignApproach

DawnChristineArchitectPLLCoffersastructuredpredesign phase,initiatingclientmeetings,visiondrafting,anddetailed analysis;eachstagewillspantwoweeks.Thecorefeatureisthe “NeedsandOptionsReview,”developedtohelpclientswho struggletoconveytheirprojectideasandunderstandfeasibility withoutexpensivearchitecturalplans.Thisservicefacilitatesclear communication,allowingarchitectstothoroughlyassessandrefine clientneedsandexploreoptimaldesignoptions.

Italsogivesclientsearlyinsightsintodesignandbudget requirements,enhancingconfidenceanddecision-makingwith minimalinvestment.Thefirm’sidealclientisopentocreativity andviewschallengesasopportunities,qualitiesthathavehelped shapethefirmintoan‘Award-WinningArchitectureCompany

IntegratingTechnology

DawnChristine,ArchitectPLLCembracestechnology toenhanceitsdesignofferings,mainlythrough comprehensivethree-dimensionalmodeling.Unlike traditionalpracticeswhereinteriordesignmaybe outsourced,thefirmensurescohesionbyconcurrently designinginteriorandexteriorspaces.Thisunified approacheliminatespotentialconflictsbetweendesign teams,resultinginaseamlessandharmoniousfinal product.Lookingtothefuture,DawnChristine ArchitectPLLCisexpandingitstechnological capabilitiesbyintegratingvirtualrealityintoits services.Thisinnovativeadditionwillallowclientsto experiencedesignsinimmersivevirtualenvironments, furtherenhancingtheirunderstandingandappreciation oftheproposedspaces.Christineisactivelyworking onimplementingthistechnology,aimingtoprovide clientswithanevenmoreimmersiveandengaging designexperience.

QualitiesofaWomanLeader

Christinereflectsontheidealqualitiesofawoman leader,emphasizingtheneedforadelicatebalance betweenfirmnessandgentleness.Recognizing women’schallengesinassertingthemselves,she underscorestheimportanceofconfidenceandaccuracy incommunicationtocommandrespectanddirection. However,Christinebelievesawoman’sleadership successstemsfromhernurturingandempathetic nature.Clientsoftenseekherexpertiseasawoman architectforherunderstandingofspatialdynamicsand familyneeds.Leveragingherbroadbackgroundand experiences,Christineincorporatesthoughtful considerationsintoherdesigns,anticipatingfuture needsandenhancingclientsatisfaction.

ConfrontingGenderBarriers

Asawomanleaderinarchitecture,Christinehas encounteredsignificantchallenges,particularlyin overcominggender-relatedbarriers.Earlyinher career,shefacedresistancefrommalecounterparts, includingabuilderwhoinitiallyrefusedtoheedher adviceononeofherprojects.Despitesuchobstacles, Christineremainedsteadfast,recognizingthe importanceofpatienceandperseveranceinbuilding bridgesandfosteringcollaboration.Overtime,her effortspaidoff,asthesamebuilderwhoonce dismissedherinputbecameatrustedconfidantseeking heradvice.

PerspectiveonFeminism

Christinedefinesfeminismasembodyingaquietstrength, blendinggentlenesswithunspokenresilience.Forher,it’sabout demonstratinginnerfortitudethroughactionsratherthan aggressiveassertions.Thisnuancedviewemphasizesthepower ofsubtleyetunmistakablefemininestrength.

NurturingTeam

Beyondherprofessionalduties,Christineprioritizescreatinga supportiveandenjoyableworkenvironmentforherteam.She emphasizesasolidwork-lifebalancebyimplementingaunique schedulewhereemployeestechnicallyworkthreedaysaweek, withMondaysandFridaysoptional.Thisapproachfosters productivity,allowingforfruitfulandenjoyableworkdays.With acommitmenttofamilyandwork-lifeintegration,Christine extendshernurturingapproachtoheremployees,treatingthem asfriendsorevenlikeherchildren.Sheorganizesoccasional funactivitiesandensuresthatworkloadsaremanageable, prioritizingthewell-beingofherteamalongsideclientdemands. Throughherleadership,Christinecultivatesaworkplaceculture characterizedbycamaraderie,support,andashared commitmenttoexcellence.

BuildingLastingConnections

Christinecherishesthemeaningfulrelationshipsshebuildswith clientsthroughoutthedesignprocess.Understandingthe importanceofgettingtoknowherclientspersonally,sheensures thattheiruniquepreferencesandlifestylesarereflectedinthe finaldesign.Christine’sgenuinecareforpeopletranslatesintoa deepcommitmenttocreatingprojectsthatexceedherclient’s expectations.Asaresult,manyofherclientsbecomefriends aftertheproject’scompletion.Shefondlyrecallsarecent interactionwithaclient,thefirstmajorrenovationprojectshe undertook,whoreachedoutfromLondontosharehis admirationforabuilding’sarchitecture.

Design is not about the four walls; rather, it is about an artistic experience through space and time in which one’s sensibilities are both tuned and in tune at once.” “ -Dawn Christine

AchievingExcellence

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SourceofInspiration

Whenaskedabouthersourceofinspiration, ChristinereflectsonherfaithandpointstoJesusas herultimaterolemodel.Sheadmireshisblendof strength,truthfulness,kindness,andlove,which brokethroughbarriersinaremarkableway.

Christinemodestlyreflectsonherjourney,focusing notonachievementsbutonpursuingexcellencethat propelsherforward.However,severalnotable milestonesstandout.Shehadtheopportunityto contributetothefilm“BeyondtheBlock,”discussing thedevelopmentofCaryandcollaboratingwith producersinCalifornia.Herworkwasfeaturedin CaryMagazine,garneringrecognitionforaproject andsubsequentlywinningawardsacrossvarious platforms.Buildingonthissuccess,Christine embarkedonaninternationalventure,travelingto NewZealandwithherdaughters,Dezaraeand Dakota,tolaunch“DesignTalk.”Thisnewendeavor encompassesaYouTubechannelandsocialmedia platformstoengagedesignenthusiastsandpotential clientsindiscussionsaboutdesign.Throughthis initiative,Christinenotonlysharesherexpertisebut alsoimpartsbusinessknowledgetoherdaughters whileofferingvaluableinsightstoabroaderaudience inanapproachableandenjoyablemanner

ChristineseesJesusastheembodimentoftimeless characteristicsliketruth,strength,love,gentleness, kindness,andendurance—qualitiesthathave contributedtohersuccessandthatshestrivesto emulateandimparttoothers.

AdviceforAspiringWomenLeaders

Christineoffersresoluteadviceforaspiringwomen entrepreneursorleaders:“Gobigorgohome.”

Encouragingthemtoaimhighandpursuetheir dreamswithoutfear,sheemphasizestheimportance ofutilizingtheirtalentsandgiftstothefullest. Drawingfromherfaith,Christinehighlightsthe significanceofgivingone’sbesteffortinall endeavors,guidedbytheprincipleofdoing everythinguntoahigherauthority.Sheurgesyoung womentopersevereandmaintainunwavering dedication,remindingthemthatsuccesscomesto thosewhogivetheirallandrefusetogiveup.

Serving the symbol of British resilience and democracy throughout

history, Big Ben remains one of the most iconic symbols of London. It is a popular tourist attraction among millions of visitors. The Latin inscription beneath the clock face translates to "O Lord, safeguard our Queen Victoria the First." Being the most recognizable landmark in London, Big Ben is the must-see monument for rst-time visitors in the English Capital. Each dial is 7 meters in diameter and is located on the north banks of the river Thames. In this article, you will be reading about its history and lesser-known facts.

History Behind the BIG BEN

Thehistoryof datesbacktomid19thcenturywhentheBritishParliamentdecidedtorebuildthePalaceof BigBen Westminister ThearchitectSirCharlesBarrywonthecompetitiontodesignthenewpalace,andconstructionbegan shortlythereafter.InitiallyknownastheClockTower,itwaslaternamedtheElizabethTowerinhonorofElizabeth II.Tocomplementthearchitectureofthepalace,AugustusPuginbuiltitinaneo-Gothicstyle.Moreover,theclock wasdesignedbyEdmundBeckettDenison,andtheclockmakerresponsibleforitsconstructionwasEdwardJohn Dent.Theclockfaces,eachmeasuringover7meters(23feet)indiameter,wereinstalledin1859.TheGreatBell wascastbytheWhitechapelBellFoundryin1858andoriginallychimedforthefirsttimeonJuly11,1859.

LESSER-KNOWN FACTS ABOUT BIG BEN

In this section, you will be exploring, lesser-known facts that provide insight into the rich history and unique features of one of London's most iconic landmarks.

ThenameBigBendoesnotrefertotheclockitselfbuttotheGreatBellhousedwithinthetowerwhichisofficiallyknown astheElizabethTower.

TheBigBenshowsthemostincrediblyaccuratetiming.

Thehistorybehinditsnameisuncertainasaccordingtosometheories,itisnamedafterSirBenjaminHall,whileothers attributeittoheavyweightboxingchampionBenjaminCaunt.

VariousmusicalcompositionshaveincludedchimesfortheshowsliketheintroductorythemeoftheBBCWorldService RadioProgram.

Throughouthistory,ithasbeensilencedoncertainoccasionslikeWorldWarIItostopbeingusedbyenemyaircraftas navigatingaid.

Thecoloroftheclockfacehasbeenchangedovertheyears.Initially,itwaslightPrussianblueandin1930itwaschanged duringrestorationwork.

TherearehiddenroomsinsideElizabethTowerincludingaprisoncellusedtodetainMembersofParliamentwhoarefound guiltyofmisconduct.

Theclockfacehasbeenmadeof 324piecesofopalglass,allheldtogetherwithacastironframe.Withfourclockfaceson thetower,that’sastaggering1,292individualpiecesofglassintotal!

TherearefourothersmallquarterbellspresentbesidetheElizabethTowerandeachbellmakesamusicalnote.

Ÿ ThefirstquarterbellplaysaG

Ÿ ThesecondquarterbellplaysaF#

Ÿ BigBenandthethird-quarterbellbothplayanE

Ÿ ThefourthquarterbellplaysaB

Ÿ BigBenitselfchimeseveryhouralongsidethequarterbells,andthequarterbellschimebythemselvesevery15minutes.

Ÿ ElizabethTowerstandsmorethan96meterstall,with334stepstoclimbuptothebelfryand399stepstotheAyrtonLightat theverytopofthetower

INTERESTING EVENTS AT BIG BEN

In2002,thecelebrationoftheNew Millenniumeventtookplaceatthe ElizabethTowerwhichwas temporarilynamed“London MillenniumTower”andequippedwith digitalcountdownclockstomarkthe occasion.However,thischangewas onlytemporary,andthetowerreverted toitsoriginalnameafterthe celebrationsconcluded.Moreover,it regularlychimestomarksignificant eventsandoccasions,includingNew Year'sEvecelebrations,Remembrance Day,andtheopeningofParliament.Its resonantchimeshavebecome synonymouswithimportantmoments inBritishhistoryandculture.In2012, duringthediamondjubileeeventof QueenElizabethII,theBritish Governmentpaidtributetoherreign andherlong-standingsuccessinthe UnitedKingdom

Role in Popular British Culture:

Big Ben has been featured prominently in various popular culture which includes lms, literature, and movies.

Themonumentattractsmillionsoftouristsfromaroundtheworldeachyear, drawntoitsimpressivearchitectureandhistoricalsignificance.TheClock TowerisafocalpointforvisitorsexploringLondon,withmanytaking guidedtourstolearnmoreaboutitshistoryandconstruction.Itsiconic silhouettehasbecomesynonymouswithLondon'sskyline,contributingto itsstatusasaworld-renownedlandmarkandsymbolofthecity.Itspresence intourismpromotionsandmarketingmaterialsfurtherenhancesits visibilityandappealtotravelersseekingtoexperiencetheculturalrichness ofLondon.

BigBenhascometosymbolizetheresilienceandenduranceoftheBritish people,particularlyduringtimesofadversitysuchasWorldWarII.Asone ofthemostrecognizablelandmarksinLondon,themonumentembodiesthe valuesofdemocracyandstabilitythatareintegraltoBritishsociety The clock'ssteadfasttickingandchimingserveasareassuringpresence, reflectingthestrengthandperseveranceofthenation.

Youmighthavewatcheditinoneof theepisodesoftheSherlockHolmes WebSeries:TheEmptyHearsewhere therewasatimebombatthe undergroundmetroandthebuildingof ParliamentaswellastheClockTower wassupposedtoexplode.

Infilms,itoftenservesasavisual shorthandforLondonandtheUnited Kingdom,appearinginiconicscenes thatshowcasethecity'slandmarks.

Inliterature,itisfrequentlyreferenced asasymbolofLondon'srichhistory andculturalheritage,evokingasense ofnostalgiaandtradition.

Inmusic,itsdistinctivechimeshave beensampledandincorporatedinto numerouscompositions,addinga touchofauthenticityandatmosphere tomusicalpieces.

Impact on Tourism and its Status as a World-Renowned Landmark

Challenges and Controversies:

Technical Complexity: Theintricate mechanicalworkingsofBigBenpresent challengesintermsofmaintenanceand restoration.Theclockmechanismrequires specializedexpertiseandcarefulhandlingto ensureitscontinuedaccuracyandreliability

Access Limitations:Accesstocertainpartsof theclocktower,includingtheclockfacesand bellchamber,canbelimitedandchallenging formaintenancepersonnel.Thiscan complicaterepairandrestorationefforts, requiringinnovativesolutionstoaccessand workontheseareassafely

Conservation vs. Modernization: Thereis oftendebateoverwhetherrestorationefforts shouldprioritizeconservationtopreservethe historicalintegrityofClockToweror incorporatemodernupgradestoimprove functionalityandlongevity.Balancingthese considerationscanbecontentious,with differingopinionsamongconservationists, engineers,andheritageadvocates.

Funding and Budgetary Constraints: Funding formaintenanceandrestorationprojectsofBig Benmaybelimited,leadingtodelaysor compromisesinthescopeofwork.Securing adequatefundingforcomprehensiverestoration effortscanbechallenging,particularlywhen competingwithotherinfrastructureprojectsand budgetpriorities.

Disruption to Operations: Majormaintenance andrestorationworkonBigBencanresultin disruptionstoitsregularoperations,including temporarysilencingoftheclockandclosureof thetowertovisitors.Balancingtheneedfor maintenancewithminimizingdisruptionsto tourismandpublicaccessposeslogistical challengesforprojectplanners.

Controversy over Renaming: Thedecisionto renametheClockTowerastheElizabethTower in2012sparkedcontroversyamongsome individualswhoarguedthatitunderminedthe historicalsignificanceofthename"BigBen." Thiscontroversyhighlightedtensionsbetween honoringtraditionandrecognizing contemporaryfiguresinBritishhistory

CONCLUSION

With all the challenges and controversies regarding the restoration work of Big Ben, the monument remains the most popular benchmark in the English Capital. We hope our article provided important insights regarding the Clock Tower. If you are going to visit the city in the future, do not forget to visit the tower and remember Big Ben is referred to as the Great Bell inside the tower.

STRATEGIES FOR ADVANCING

A GUIDE FOR WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT YOUR CAREER:

Intoday’sdynamicandever-evolvingprofessionallandscape,womenare increasinglybreakingbarriersandascendingtoleadershiprolesinmanagement. Whileconsiderableprogresshasbeenmadeinachievinggenderdiversity, womeninmanagementstillfaceuniquechallenges.Tosucceedandadvance theircareers,itisessentialforwomeninmanagementtoemployeffective strategiesthatcatertotheiruniqueneedsandcircumstances.Inthisarticle,we willexplorekeystrategiesandinsightsforwomeninmanagementseekingto climbthecorporateladderandthriveinleadershiproles.

EmbraceConfidenceandSelf-Advocacy

Oneofthefundamentalpillarsforcareeradvancementisconfidence.Womenin managementshouldcultivateandprojectself-assurednessintheirabilitiesand decisions.Confidencenotonlyaffectspersonalwell-beingbutalsoinfluences howothersperceiveyou.Toboostyourconfidence:

a)AssertiveCommunication:Effectivecommunicationisvitalforwomenin management.Beclearandassertiveinyourverbalandwrittencommunication. Speakupinmeetingsandshareyourthoughts,ideas,andconcernsconfidently.

b)Self-Promotion:Womenoftentendtodownplaytheiraccomplishments. Instead,celebrateyourachievementsandmakesureyourcontributionsare recognized.Don’tshyawayfrompromotingyourworkandachievementswithin theorganization.

c)MentorshipandNetworking:Seekoutmentors,bothmaleandfemale,who canprovideguidanceandsupport.Networkingwithinandoutsideyour organizationcanhelpyougaininsights,accessopportunities,andbuildastrong supportsystem.

DevelopLeadershipSkills

Managementpositionsrequirestrong leadershipskills.Womenin managementshouldactivelyworkon honingtheirleadershipabilitiesto excelintheirroles.Leadership developmentstrategiesinclude:

ContinuousLearning:Stayupdated withindustrytrendsandleadership bestpractices.Enrollinleadership developmentprograms,workshops, andseminarstoenhanceyourskills andknowledge.

SeekFeedback:Beopentofeedback fromcolleagues,superiors,and subordinates.Constructivefeedback canhelpyouidentifyareasfor improvementandrefineyour leadershipstyle.

LeadbyExample:Effectiveleaders demonstratethevaluesandbehaviors theyexpectfromtheirteams.By settingapositiveexample,womenin managementcaninspireandmotivate theiremployees.

NavigateWorkplaceChallenges

Womeninmanagementoftenfacespecific challengesthatcanhindertheircareer progression.Itisimportanttoacknowledge thesechallengesandadoptstrategiestoaddress them:

Work-LifeBalance:Balancingcareerand personallifecanbedemanding.Establishclear boundaries,delegatetaskswhenpossible,and makeuseofflexibleworkarrangementsto managethisjugglingacteffectively

CombatGenderBias:Womeninmanagement shouldactivelychallengeandcombatgender biasintheworkplace.Addressingbiasesand stereotypescancreateamoreinclusiveand equitableenvironmentforallemployees.

NegotiationSkills:Negotiationskillsare crucialforcareeradvancement.Womenshould nothesitatetonegotiateforsalary,benefits,and promotions.Learningeffectivenegotiation techniquescanhelpbridgethegenderpaygap.

SetandPursueClearGoals

Settingandpursuingclearcareergoalsis essentialforprofessionaladvancement.Women inmanagementshouldtaketimetodefinetheir goalsandestablisharoadmaptoachievethem. Strategiesforgoalsettinginclude:

a)Short-TermandLong-TermObjectives: Breakdownyourgoalsintoshort-termandlongtermobjectives.Thisapproachhelpsyou maintainfocusandtrackyourprogress.

b)ProfessionalDevelopmentPlan:Createa professionaldevelopmentplanthatoutlinesthe skills,experiences,andknowledgeyouneedto reachyourgoals.Regularlyupdatethisplanas youprogressinyourcareer.

c)SeekoutChallengingOpportunities:Don’t shyawayfromchallengingassignmentsor projects.Takingonnewresponsibilitiesand pushingyourboundariescanleadtopersonal andprofessionalgrowth.

EmbraceDiversityandInclusion

Promotingdiversityandinclusioninthe workplacebenefitseveryone.Womenin managementcanplayasignificantrolein advancingdiversityefforts.Keystrategies include:

MentorshipandSponsorship:Womencan mentorandsponsorotherwomen,especially thoseatearlierstagesoftheircareers. Providingguidanceandadvocatingfortheir advancementcanhavealastingimpact.

DiverseHiringPractices:Encourage diversehiringpracticeswithinyour organization.Ensurethatrecruitmentand promotiondecisionsarebasedonmeritand acommitmenttodiversity

InclusiveLeadership:Leadbyexamplein fosteringaninclusiveculturewithinyour teamordepartment.Encourageopen dialogueandbereceptivetodiverse perspectives.

FosterResilience

Resilienceisavitalqualityforanyoneseeking careeradvancement.Womeninmanagement,like theirmalecounterparts,mayencountersetbacksand obstacles.Strategiesforbuildingresilienceinclude:

a)DevelopCopingStrategies:Identifyhealthy copingstrategiesfordealingwithstressand setbacks.Thesemayincludemeditation,exercise, orseekingsupportfromfriendsandcolleagues.

b)LearnfromFailures:Insteadofdwellingon failures,viewthemasopportunitiesforgrowthand learning.Analyzewhatwentwrongandhowyou canimproveinthefuture.

c)MaintainaPositiveOutlook:Cultivatea positivemindset.Focusonyourachievementsand theprogressyou’vemadeinyourcareer,evenwhen facedwithchallenges.

Con

Women in management have made remarkable strides in the professional world, but there is still work to be done to achieve gender equity in leadership roles. By adopting the strategies outlined in this guide, women can advance their careers, overcome challenges, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workplace.

Conclusion

Confidence, leadership development, effective navigation of workplace challenges, promoting diversity and inclusion, setting clear goals, and fostering resilience are all essential components of a successful career journey for women in management. Embracing these strategies can lead to not only personal growth but also positive change within organizations and the broader business community.