A perspective on International Women’s Day | News

A perspective on International Women’s Day with Sharon Palmer, Managing Director of Camps International (UK and Middle East), reflecting on leadership, career growth and the value of staying open to opportunity, even when the path forward is uncertain.

On International Women’s Day, what has your career journey taught you about growth and progress?
“I would encourage people to remain open to opportunities even when they feel insecure.
When I started as a freelance expedition leader in Kenya, I was simply focused on doing the job well and supporting the students and communities around me. I didn’t have a long-term plan in mind. What shaped my path was a willingness to take responsibility, learn along the way, and lean on the experiences of those around me. I have always tried to add value to whatever role I take on, and in my experience that has been a key factor in my progress.
In my experience, trust grows quietly over time. It often comes from small moments of responsibility, rather than dramatic turning points. Some of the most valuable lessons in my career came from situations that required patience, adaptability and collaboration.
Leadership is not about having everything in order. It’s about listening, staying thoughtful, and recognizing that context matters. It’s also about working with others and understanding that progress is rarely achieved alone. It also takes the courage to speak up when you have a strong opinion about something. That is a quality that I highly value and actively encourage in those I lead.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that growth doesn’t require certainty. It requires commitment. Taking the next step, even if it feels modest, is often what builds experience and perspective over time. And sometimes just being willing to start is enough.”