5 SEPTEMBER2025W MAN LEADERGLOBAL W MAN LEADERGLOBAL Editor's NoteAgainst All Odds: Greek Women Leaders Scripting Success & Overcoming Social BiasesIf history could speak, it would tell us how the world hasn't always been a fair place for women. With patriarchal structures ruling most regions of the world, even the most basic of women's rights have been curtailed since centuries.One key right that women were devoid of for several centuries is suffrage, or the right to vote. Ironically, Greece, the country that gave the world the very concept of democracy as early as 5th Century BC, did not allow its women to participate in the democratic process till 1952. However, since then, there has been continued effort to improve women's position in the Greek society. Another significant step was taken by Greec in 1983, when the country signed the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, which brought reforms in family law.However, women continue to be at a disadvantaged position when it comes to politics, business and education. A closer look at the Greek business world shows a story of stark discrimination. Women in Greece are grossly underrepresented in establishing and running businesses. Only 25.1 percent of all businesses in the country are women-run, and a large majority of them happen to be small enterprises. The startup world tells a similar story. Only about 16 percent of all startups in Greece have at least one woman on their founding team. Women-led startups also struggle to raise funding. When the tide is against women in Greece, that makes it even more important to celebrate the success stories of the women who have succeeded in becoming successful business leaders. One such name is Chrysanthi Stefanou, Managing Director of Bright Navigation, a Piraeus-based shipping company operating 25 environmentally friendly bulk carriers. Born in Athens and shaped by the maritime legacy of Andros Island, she began her career at the family's businesses--Bright Maritime, Bright Navigation, and Golden Star Ferries--earning her place by working through every department. Today, she drives strategy across multiple companies, while advocating for sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity in Greek shipping.Another one is Maria Zarotiadou who guides businesses to elevate brand presence and optimize actionable business planning. As Managing Director of Plan of Business and Plan Career by Plan of Business, Maria brings almost twenty years of experience of experience in strategic marketing, business coaching and gender equality advisory. Her thought leadership extends to mentoring emerging entrepreneurs through Women on Top, Startab, and Prince's Trust International initiatives.The current edition of GWL magazine features in depth interviews with Maria and Chrysanthi. Get to know more about these trailblazing women leaders who have managed to overcome gender bias and establish themselves as serious business leaders in the Greek business world. Read on and do let us know your thoughts. Rachita SharmaManaging Editor
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