5 SEPTEMBER2025W MAN LEADERGLOBAL W MAN LEADERGLOBAL UPCOMING ISSUESEditor's NoteSteps in the Right Direction: Panama Takes Affirmative Action to Bridge Gender Divide Gender equity in all aspects of life is a critical goal that most nations across the world have been working towards. However, some nations have made more progress than others. The Central American nation, Panama has been endeavouring to improve women's status in the society, however, a lot of work remains to be done. According to the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Index, in 2025 Panama scored 0.74 which indicates a 26 percent gap in opportunities for men and women. Affirmative action is the only road forward to ensure that women receive ample opportunity and empowerment. To this end, Panama has made significant strides. The country's Institute for Vocational Training and Training for Human Development (INADEH), supported by the ILO has chatted out a roadmap to boost women's participation in non-traditional careers and courses. From providing vocational courses to supporting women through childcare facilities in selected training centres, the program intends to support Panama women in building strong careers.To boost social reformation, Panama has become also one of the first countries to partner with the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC), through which action is being taken to close the gender pay gap.Additionally, the country also follows Gender Parity Initiative (IPG). The platform helps improve women's participation and leadership in the labour force. Steps such as these are bolstered when women get to observe the real-life stories of existing women leaders who have achieved great success in their field of work. GWL magazine's current edition spotlights women leaders from Panama who have showcased immense skill, resilience and fortitude. One such name is Marelisa Zúñiga. A psychologist and organizational development expert, Marelisa is the founder of CRISALIDA, a research and human development center based in Panama. Her professional journey spans over a decade in global corporations with leading roles in human resources, continuous improvement, lean operations, and leadership development, she started her entrepreneurial venture promoting self-care, productivity, and purpose. She also founded Panama's Work and Life Balance Network, bringing together over 50 HR leaders to drive cultural change in workplace well-being. Another stellar women leader from Panamam featured in the current edition is Idaliz Guiraud, the Managing Partner and Founder at Guiraud Law. She holds legal specialization in Banking, Commercial, Immigration, Real Estate, Trade, Tax and Wealth Structuring. Besides her firm, she is also the General Counsel for Chile and Panama based wealth management firm CI Associates. This month's edition also spotlights Victoria Levitam, Managing Partner of The Agency Panama, a real estate professional with over 20 years of experience in Panama's real estate landscape. With over $500 million in real estate sales and a reputation for strategic vision and emotional intelligence, she has shaped iconic projects like the Ocean Reef Islands. With a background in marketing & sales, interior design and martial arts, she is known for her emphasis on legacy, values, and precision in real estate.Read in-depth interviews featuring the aforementioned women leaders who are driving growth and change in Panama's business landscape.Do let us know your thoughts. Rachita SharmaManaging Editor
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