“How can inclusive leadership and a gender-balanced approach shape the future of businesses in Mauritius and set an example for Africa?”
This question was the central theme addressed by Jeremy Stockdale at the event held on September 2, 2025, at Royal Green in Moka. Organised in partnership with the Board of Good and supported by ABC Banking and ABC Foods, the conference brought together leaders, professionals, and advocates from across the island.
The keynote speaker, Jeremy Stockdale, who is the CEO and founder of Ylead, captivated the audience with his insights on the economic and social benefits of inclusive leadership. “Mauritius stands to gain enormously — economically and socially — by embracing gender balance and inclusive leadership. Leaders and business owners can adapt and seize these opportunities in a rapidly changing world. And most importantly, there are practical steps that we can begin taking right now to help ensure our organisations are ready for the future,” emphasised Stockdale.
President of the Board of Good, Sharmila Chakowa added her perspective to the talk, saying: “All ladies present tonight will surely agree with me that we still have a long way to go to strike the right gender balance when it comes to having women in leadership roles.” Her candid observation resonated with many in the audience and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women aspiring to leadership positions.
The conference aimed to challenge the gender bias and encouraged a more inclusive and equitable business environment. It also provided an exceptional opportunity for business leaders, policymakers, and advocates of gender equity to come together, exchange ideas, and help shape a more inclusive and prosperous future for Mauritius and beyond.
Going beyond conversation, the conference offered practical tools and actions to challenge bias and build equitable workplaces. Stockdale underlined core beliefs, emphasising that leadership is a privilege and responsibility, inclusion is a moral and economic imperative, and leaders are made, not born.
Mauritius currently ranks 107th out of 146 countries for gender equity, with a global happiness ranking of 78. Improving the island’s gender equity ranking by 20 places in the next five years could unlock significant economic and social benefits, including higher female participation in leadership and the workforce, stronger innovation and productivity, and improved well-being across communities. Such progress would strengthen Mauritius’ position as a regional model for inclusive growth and strengthen its global competitiveness.
Head of Corporate Banking at ABC Banking, Ibrahim Malleck, echoed Stockdale’s sentiments and highlighted the bank’s commitment to fostering an inclusive business environment, stating:
“At ABC Banking, we believe that inclusive leadership is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity. By promoting gender equity and diverse leadership, we are paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for Mauritius.”
Jeremy Stockdale concluded with a powerful message and enumerated his vision for Mauritius: “In the next 5 years, Mauritius can become a beacon of social and economic growth; all built on the foundations of Inclusive Leadership and Gender Balance.”
By taking decisive action now, the country can unlock untapped talent, drive economic growth, and set a new standard for social wellbeing.
