Why authentic women leaders are changing business: Sheila Edwards 

As part of International Women's Day 2026, leaders in Greater Birmingham share their thoughts on the power of reciprocity and support following this year's theme of 'Give to Gain'. 

Sheila Edwards, business development manager at LGBT wants greater recognition and support of more women in business, particulary in leadership roles, while emphasing that meaningful progress towards gender equality requires collective effort. 

Sheila highlights on her own personal experiences of conforming to traditional professional expectations, ultimately advocating for authencity and self-confidence in the workplace. 

What changes would you like to see for women in business in Greater Birmingham?

Women have so much to offer all aspects of society, including business.  Evidence has proven that businesses led by women - both big and small - are often more successful.  Women make great leaders - again the evidence shows this.  I'd like to see this accepted and celebrated much more.  

More than anything I'd like to see more men taking this on board and becoming feminist allies.

What is one action you could take to challenge gender bias or stereotypes?

Patriarchy and misogyny will be beaten only when more men stand up to it - when they challenge gender bias and stereotypes, and call it out when they see it in action.  

So my action will be to get more men on board with allyship!

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a woman in business and how did you overcome it?

I presented myself in the way I thought I needed to be for many years -  standing, walking, dressing, even talking in a certain way because that what 'common wisdom' told me was needed.  I carved out a 'persona' to be accepted.  

These days - definitely older and perhaps wiser - I bring 100% of my authentic self to work, and believe that have the respect of most that I talk to for doing so.  

This year’s IWD theme is Give to Gain. How will you give back to either your organisation or community to help drive more change?

I have worked in the voluntary and public sectors for the majority of my career and will continue to do so.  Working for Birmingham LGBT is my way of giving back - supporting the LGBTQ+ community to live happier and healthier lives in a world where discrimination and prejudice are still rife - as we can see by the considerable adverse affects of last year's High Court judgement on Trans and queer women

What’s one piece of advice you would give to women looking to succeed in your industry?

Believe in yourself, and lift up other women.

How has being part of GBCC helped support your business or career?

Being able to network with businesses in the Birmingham area has helped me to launch Corporate Champions, and Legends and Icons - a corporate giving scheme, and an individual giving scheme - supporting Birmingham LGBT which , like most local charities, needs more unrestricted funding to deliver support to our community.