In the realm of law and social impact, few names resonate as profoundly as Diana Rodriguez Rodas. With a multifaceted expertise spanning collaborative law, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and women's empowerment, Diana is a force to be reckoned with in the Peruvian legal landscape and beyond.
As a Collaborative Lawyer specializing in CSR, Diana brings a unique perspective to the table, driven by her unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration and sustainability within the corporate sphere. Armed with a postgraduate degree in Public Administration and Management, she has honed her skills not only as a legal practitioner but also as a strategic leader dedicated to effecting positive change.
Diana's leadership extends far beyond the courtroom. She is the President and founder of the Peruvian Women's Chamber of Commerce, a trailblazing organization championing gender equality and economic empowerment. Additionally, her role as President of the Society of Ladies of Peru Bicentennial underscores her dedication to societal progress and civic engagement.
Her influence reverberates globally through initiatives such as the Summit of Lawyers & Leaders and Circular & Sustainable Peru, where she spearheads efforts to integrate circular economy principles into legal frameworks. As the Director of Women Economic Forum Peru and Peru Country Chair of G100 Circular Economic, Diana continues to pave the way for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Not content with merely occupying leadership positions, Diana actively contributes to the education and empowerment of others. As a teacher, lecturer, and life coach, she imparts invaluable knowledge on topics ranging from female entrepreneurship to sustainability and equity.
Diana's impact transcends borders, as evidenced by her role as Director of the Peru Chapter in the Latin American Organization of Collaborative Law (OLADC). Her dedication to promoting collaborative approaches to conflict resolution is matched only by her commitment to social responsibility.
Among her many accolades, Diana is recognized as the President and founder of Pro Bono Perú, a pioneering initiative promoting the social responsibility of lawyers and fostering social inclusion. Furthermore, her establishment of Mujer Emprende in Peru, the first Online Business School dedicated to women's entrepreneurship, underscores her unwavering dedication to leveling the playing field and fostering economic empowerment.
In her capacity as Director of Warmi Magazine and host of the radio program "Made by Women," Diana amplifies the voices of women and celebrates their achievements, furthering the cause of gender equality and empowerment.
Join us as we delve into the mind of this visionary leader, exploring her insights on collaboration, CSR, and the path to a more equitable and sustainable future.
You
1.Can you share with our readers your journey into the circular economy space and what inspired your interest in this area?
The empowerment and economic autonomy of women is a central theme of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and for the Peruvian Women's Chamber of Commerce, which is founded with the objective of creating spaces and opportunities for growth for women, thus eliminating the existing gaps. The circular economy has become the ideal, more sustainable and equitable model; for women in more equal conditions of participation and remuneration, generating a transformation in their lives and society. It is inspiring to see how the circular economy can save the planet and save us, because we are all part of it.
2.As a woman leader in the circular economy field, what unique perspectives or approaches do you bring to the table?
We approach the economy from a gender perspective, which includes the government, academia and society, we promote the Peru Circular Project, the first innovation and circular vision center in the country. Where we develop seminars, courses and programs such as: "Emprende Circular", a training aimed at women where we will provide you with the necessary tools to validate problems and detect opportunities in the market or industry with a focus on sustainability.
3.What are some of the key challenges you've faced as a woman leader in this industry, and how have you overcome them?
Balance of personal and work life is very important to maintain physical and mental health, which directly influences your performance and full life. I learned to overcome this challenge with 3 key rules: Saying No without feeling guilty, and asking for help if I need it, this includes at home and at work. Resting, personal care is not a luxury, it is necessary to be more productive and enjoy my life. Connect with other women to share experiences, inspire each other, and remember that we are not alone in our struggles and that it is okay to support each other.
4.Could you highlight some of your notable contributions or initiatives within the circular economy space that have made a positive impact?
Among the actions that I developed is the creation of "Peru Circular", a platform that promotes the circular transition in the country, organizing seminars with the participation of experts in the field and the G100 in the circular economy wing which I lead in Peru, highlighting and inspiring women's leadership, generating public-private alliances in all economic sectors that apply circularity and sustainability.
5.How do you see the role of women entrepreneurs evolving in shaping the future of the circular economy?
Women, leaders for a circular and sustainable future, the future looks promising, however, there are still important challenges to overcome, such as gender discrimination, the wage gap and barriers to achieving work-life balance. As companies continue to work to address these issues, women's participation and role in the circular economy will continue to evolve and grow. Women are innate creators, that gives us a great advantage to build more sustainable societies.
6.In your opinion, what are some of the most promising opportunities for women-led businesses within the circular economy framework?
I observe opportunities for women in the reuse of waste in the textile and agricultural sectors, converting the industry from a circular perspective. In addition, it is also important that women form unions, for example waste pickers, create cooperatives of women farmers to maximize benefits and reduce efforts on their way to developing new jobs and female economic autonomy.
7.How can businesses, governments, and society at large better support and encourage women's participation and leadership in advancing the circular economy agenda?
A strong political, business and societal commitment to gender equality and the full enjoyment of human rights and empowerment of all women and girls, together with a solid policy framework that recognizes the importance of these issues, are stones cornerstones of an effective cooperation program for sustainable development. With priority areas to work on such as: 1. The economic empowerment of women. 2. The end of physical, psychological, economic and social violence towards women. 3. Recognize unpaid work as work, such as housework and family care. 4. Investing in women's organizations and companies guarantees progress for everyone.
8.What advice would you give to aspiring women leaders who are interested in pursuing a career or business venture in the circular economy sector?
Find your purpose, that will be your motivation, learn everything you can in areas that interest you, and even in some areas that don't. Dream big and expand your mind and views by surrounding yourself with people who have had diverse experiences and different ways of seeing the world. Make sure you understand the importance of people and caring for the planet in the process.
9.Can you share any personal experiences or anecdotes that have shaped your understanding of the importance of sustainability and circularity in business?
In my experience as a lawyer, I confirmed that without equal opportunities and rights for women, there is no sustainability for society, and without a circular economy there is no sustainability for the planet.
10.Looking ahead, what do you envision as the future of the circular economy movement, and how do you see women playing a pivotal role in driving its growth and innovation?
I imagine a promising future if women continue working together to incorporate circularity into our homes, companies and cities, this will become a way of life that will naturally lead us to the habitat of a fairer and more inclusive planet, where no one and nothing is left out. A circular and perfect world.
Published By She Business Time