Why are woman leaders needed so much right now?

We are living through a time of profound transformation—one in which old structures of leadership, governance, and decision-making are being questioned, challenged, and, in many cases, dismantled. According to Maija West, this shift is not just about politics or policy; it is about the collapse of a way of thinking—one rooted in dominant cultural traits such as perfectionism, either/or thinking, and urgency. These traits have long shaped our institutions, yet they often suppress creativity, collaboration, and deep transformation.

As we move through this period of upheaval, an opportunity emerges: an opportunity for women to lead in a way that embodies the antidotes to these failing systems—through emergent strategy, relational leadership, and life-affirming values. See the work of  the Healing and Reconciliation Institute, Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth, Decolonizing Wealth, and Good Relative for more information on these inquiries. 

The Dominant Culture of Leadership: Where It Comes From and Why It’s Changing

Historically, leadership has been associated with hierarchical structures that emphasize control, competition, and individualism. Maija explains that these dominant culture traits are deeply tied to colonization, white supremacy, and patriarchy. While men have traditionally held the majority of leadership positions, these traits are not inherently male—women, too, can exhibit them. However, women and other underrepresented groups have often been systematically excluded from positions of power, limiting the potential for alternative leadership models to flourish.

Now, as society reckons with these inherited systems, we are invited to consider a new way forward—one that makes space for different ways of leading and making decisions.

A New Invitation: Women Leading Differently

Rather than adapting to dominant leadership models, Maija challenges women to “throw the table out and sit in a circle.” Instead of trying to claim a seat at the table within the existing structures, women have the opportunity to create entirely new ways of leading—ones that are rooted in care, connection, and long-term sustainability.

Some of these alternative approaches include:

• Hospicing the old – Acknowledging the decline of outdated systems and supporting a transition toward new ways of leading and governing.

• Midwifing the new – Nurturing emergent leadership models that prioritize collaboration over competition and relational decision-making over rigid hierarchy.

• Prioritizing internal work – Recognizing that meaningful leadership is not just about external achievements, but about cultivating self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and community resilience.

Exploring These Ideas Further

For those interested in diving deeper into these concepts, Maija offers opportunities to engage with this work through her upcoming book club starting in March and her free Matriarch circle member community. These spaces provide a forum to explore the value of women’s leadership, connect with like-minded individuals, and examine how we can collectively shape the future.

She also acknowledges and honors the teachers and thinkers who have influenced her perspective, reinforcing the importance of learning from a diverse range of voices.

A Call to Action: The Time for Women’s Leadership is Now

As Maija concludes, she emphasizes that women’s voices and leadership are essential in shaping the future. We are at a turning point, and the question is not whether change will happen—but how we will choose to navigate it.

For those ready to embrace this shift, the invitation is clear: step into leadership, redefine what it means to lead, and create spaces where collaboration, care, and wisdom guide the way forward.

To learn more and join this conversation, explore Maija’s book club and community offerings,—because the future of leadership depends on the voices willing to rise today.

Last updated 02-28-2025.