WASHINGTON–Shazia Manus, CEO of TMG, shared an inspiration message as the keynoter during the recent Global Woman’s Leadership Network meeting. Sharing the story of her personal and professional journey from Dhaka, Bangladesh to Des Moines, Iowa, Manus’ message was that the improbable can be done.
“Every day, there are brave women across the globe who are speaking out and overcoming social barriers to live a life they had believed was impossible,” said Manus. “I am in awe of their tenacity and courage to break the mold.”
In addition to sharing the obstacles she faced to achieve her academic and professional goals, Manus also talked about personal hardships. These included enduring an abusive relationship, considering an arranged marriage, experiencing the death of her father and the difficulties of immigration to the U.S.
“These circumstances did not consume me or define me,” she said. “Instead, I used each event as an opportunity to learn, adapt, course correct and then move onto better things. By channeling my inner-strength, I became a mentor, trusted colleague, successful business woman, wife and mother. The journey to get here was not easy, and yet if I had a chance to do it again, I would.”
Prior to joining TMG, Manus, who was recently named one of the most influential women in payments, served as the CEO of Greater Iowa Credit Union. At the credit union, she engineered a significant turn-around of the institution, achieving substantial profitability and membership growth. In her current role as CEO of TMG, she has led record growth of the company, which helps credit unions and community banks provide innovative payments products to millions of U.S. and Canadian consumers.
The global issues that keep fewer women than men from achieving their professional goals were explored throughout Manus’ keynote address. She talked about the need for more financial support for ambitious women around the world via scholarships, microfinance and other types of support, particularly for the entrepreneurially minded.
Although the importance of mentorship was a part of Manus’ talk, she also stressed her belief that women in business have “a responsibility to look out for themselves and own their success.”
She identified four necessary shifts to constitute an era of change in female leadership. These shifts include:
Women and men must advocate for each other. “I would not be standing here today if it weren’t for the male executives, mentors and counterparts who believed in me. They encouraged me to be more and not settle for less.”
Leaders must push for diversity at the strategy table. “There is a critical need to have equal gender representation in all positions of power. Diversity at the table strengthens debate and produces stronger outcomes.”
Business women must know their value. “Understanding your self-worth, and then having the skills to negotiate, are key to closing the gap in wage equality.”
Everyone has to be willing to take risks. “You never know your true potential unless you are willing to put yourself out there. To achieve greater success sometimes requires us to embrace the unknown.”