Empowering Women’s Health and Leadership: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Empowering Women’s Health and Leadership: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Pamela Barnes’ story is one of courage, passion, and an unwavering commitment to women’s health. Leaving behind a successful corporate career, Barnes ventured into the challenging world of nonprofit health, a decision she describes as the best she ever made. Her journey is a testament to the power of taking risks and following one’s passion.
The Leap of Faith
Barnes’ career shift from investment management and corporate finance to women’s health was not a spontaneous decision. After 20 years in the corporate world, she felt a calling to do something more meaningful. This led her to Planned Parenthood, where she served as COO before joining the Peace Corps at the age of 48. Her time in Paraguay, delivering family-planning education by bicycle, was a transformative experience that solidified her commitment to women’s health.
The Mission of EngenderHealth
As the president and CEO of EngenderHealth, Barnes leads a global women’s health organization dedicated to providing high-quality family planning and sexual and reproductive health services in 20 countries. Her mission is clear: to ensure that every pregnancy is planned, every child is wanted, and every mother has the best chance at survival.
Women’s Empowerment and Reproductive Health
In an interview with Diversity Woman, Barnes shared her insights on women’s empowerment, reproductive health, and the importance of teamwork. She emphasized the need for women to have access to basic healthcare and the tools they need for healthy pregnancies and children. EngenderHealth’s work is crucial in countries where access to basic care is limited.
The Power of Social Media and Mobile Technology
Barnes highlighted the role of social media and mobile technology in EngenderHealth’s operations. With 400 of their 500 workers operating outside the United States, social networks and mobile technology serve as vital communication channels. These platforms enable the organization to reach women with critical information about family planning and healthcare services.
The Importance of Teamwork
Barnes’ management style is rooted in the power of teams. She believes in the effectiveness of teams that work together with trust and respect. This collaborative approach is essential to her leadership and the success of EngenderHealth.
Challenges and Progress for Women in Business
Despite progress, Barnes noted that women still face significant challenges in the business world, including unequal pay and inadequate representation in senior leadership. However, she remains hopeful, citing the increasing number of women in undergraduate and graduate programs as a positive sign for the future.
Inspiration from Women Worldwide
Barnes is deeply moved by the resilience and courage of women in other countries who often travel great distances to access healthcare. She is also inspired by the women leaders she meets globally, which motivates her to advocate for more inspiring voices in the healthcare world in the United States.
The Women Deliver Summit
Barnes attended the Women Deliver summit in Kuala Lumpur, the largest global event focused on health and empowerment for girls and women. The summit featured prominent figures like Melinda Gates and Chelsea Clinton and provided a platform for problem-solving and sharing real-life experiences from developing countries.
The Fistula-Free Generation Campaign
EngenderHealth’s recent campaign, Fistula-Free Generation, aims to address the issue of obstetric fistula, a preventable condition that often results in severe health complications for women. The campaign focuses on training healthcare professionals and educating communities to improve women’s access to family planning and maternal health care.
Advice for Women in Business
Barnes’ advice to women in the business world is to not be afraid to take risks. She encourages women to seize opportunities and make their voices heard, whether it’s sharing an idea with a boss or pursuing a passion project.
Inspirational Reads
Barnes’ recent reads include “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg, “Catherine the Great” by Robert Massie, and “Long Walk to Freedom,” the autobiography of Nelson Mandela. These books have provided her with inspiration and insights into leadership and resilience.
For more information on women’s health and leadership, visit World Health Organization.
