Renée Blasky, a chartered financial analyst who settled in Kenya in 1992, shared insights on women's empowerment during a conversation ahead of International Women's Day 2019. Her journey from Singapore to Kenya aboard a 45-foot boat marked the start of a 24-year career in the investment sector.
Blasky emphasized that women must actively assert their presence in professional spaces. 'You cannot play in the background,' she stated, echoing Sheryl Sandberg's 'lean in' philosophy. She advised young women to prioritize self-advocacy, noting that success requires vocal participation and refusing to 'play second fiddle.'
Reflecting on personal choices, Blasky revealed she deliberately avoided motherhood, citing her upbringing as a key influence. 'I never had that biological clock go off,' she said, explaining her focus on career over family. Her decision aligned with her early experiences, including her mother's struggles during a 12-year marriage that ended when Blasky was 18.
She criticized the tendency of women to prioritize others over themselves. 'They bring themselves down, they are overwhelmed,' Blasky observed, advocating for 'guiltless retreats' where women can prioritize self-care. Her own routine includes a weekly self-care day and adventurous pursuits like skydiving.
Despite Kenya's challenges—including power outages and bureaucratic hurdles—Blasky expressed deep affection for the country. 'Kenyans are very open, more warm and friendly,' she said, though she acknowledged she would miss the weather and people more than the infrastructure.
Blasky's career trajectory, from Singapore's stock markets to Kenya's investment industry, underscores her belief in proactive leadership. Her advice remains relevant as she continues coaching women to challenge societal expectations and redefine success on their own terms.
