I feel extremely fortunate to have successful women around me always, from my wife Abigail Weitmann, to leaders of companies where I have invested, either personally or through Champel Capital. Women who are industry leaders, like Aleph Farms entrepreneur Shulamit Levenberg, NEUR.ON founder and CEO Paula Reichenberg, or Laminate Medical Technologies Ltd. co-founder and CEO Tammy Gilon, and others whom I will mention in a soon-to-be-announced new investment. Of course, I could mention many other inspiring women who are thriving in the #startupnation. People have complicated the topic of women's and men's differences too much when, in reality, it has a lot to do with the habits of commitment and sacrifice in their career choices, priorities, and societal expectations. Many individuals, both men and women (though women tend to prioritize it more often), may prioritize their personal lives and well-being over career advancement. Some choose to leave demanding work environments in pursuit of a better work-life balance, especially if they have the financial means to do so. This is a *personal* choice, which may be influenced in the case of women by motherhood, but which in no way implies discrimination. There are *amazing* women, just as there are *amazing* men, everywhere. Of course, when women have a career, they tend to spend/invest more money. So long as they don't forget that they also are mothers who have kids and need to take care of them. That's normal. It's good for them. It's good for their daughters, it's good for their sons, it's good for their partners. It's good for their communities. They're stronger. It's good for our society overall. It's good for the economy. #womeninbusiness #womenatwork #womenfounders #impactinvesting #womeninfinance
I appreciate your recognition of the successful women in your circles; they are indeed inspiring examples of women who are industry leaders. However, I would like to offer a different perspective on some of the issues you raised. While I agree that personal choices and priorities play a role in career outcomes, I also think that we cannot ignore the societal pressures and outdated business operations that cater to childless people in general and men of a certain age in particular. These factors create significant barriers and challenges for women who want to pursue their careers and achieve their full potential. For instance, the continued disparity in salaries fueled by lack of transparency in salary negotiations puts women at a disadvantage. Women aren’t necessarily prioritizing family but are forced to de-center work due to economic/social factors, such as the high cost of childcare, the unequal division of domestic labor, and the stigma of being a working mother. Men, on the other hand, are consistently given a pass when it comes to caring for their children. They are patted on the back for doing the bare minimum, while women are expected to do it all.
I think it is important to acknowledge the structural and cultural factors that shape women’s and men’s experiences and opportunities in the workplace. We need to create more inclusive and supportive environments that enable women and men to balance their personal and professional lives, without having to compromise on either. This is not only good for them, but also for their families, their communities, and the economy as a whole.
Thank you for stating this Amir Weitmann and thanks for investing in women, catalyzing inclusive economic growth through women's economic empowerment.
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The Kitchen Hub | FoodTech Business Development and Investments
10moI find it interesting, Amir, that you mention that women shouldn't forget they have children and they need to take care of them. Isn't this the same for men? Is it OK for men not to take care of their children? Are you implying that, as a default, the task of "taking care of the home and children" is a responsibility of the woman? 🤔🤔🤔