As we celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, we take a moment to honour the remarkable contributions of three members of our GCSP community who have been instrumental in advancing gender equality, empowering women leaders, and championing women’s rights in the context of peace and security. Their dedication, resilience, and leadership have not only paved the way for more inclusive and equitable spaces but have also inspired countless others to break barriers and drive meaningful change. Today, we celebrate their impact and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a future where all women can thrive.

• Name: Natalia Alvarez
• Job title: Executive-in-Residence Fellow at GCSP
• Nationality: Salvadorean

Can you share a brief overview of your journey and what inspired you to work in peace and security?

My journey into peace and security was born from my lived experience. I understand, deeply, the fragility of peace. My family was displaced by civil war, a reality that etched the cost of conflict into my understanding of the world. This experience wasn't just a moment in time; it became the bedrock of my drive for resilience, equity, and inclusion.

My professional path, spanning risk, sustainability, and strategic partnerships, has consistently underscored the importance of proactive, inclusive leadership. The same principles that guide effective risk management – anticipation, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement – are fundamental to building and maintaining peace.

Furthermore, my personal life has been a powerful teacher. My parents came from diverse, blended families, creating a vibrant, inclusive environment. This 'first school' of belonging instilled in me the belief that peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of genuine inclusion and equity.

In essence, my journey is a fusion of personal experience and professional expertise. It’s a commitment to applying the lessons learned from both to build a more secure and equitable world. For those in the peace, security, and risk sectors, it's a reminder that our work is fundamentally about people, their stories, and their right to a safe and inclusive future.

How do you support and empower other women leaders, and what initiatives have you led or contributed to in advancing gender equality and women’s rights in this field?

My commitment to supporting and empowering women leaders isn't just a professional goal; it's a fundamental and deeply personal belief. I've had the privilege of mentoring and coaching many talented women, helping them navigate their career paths and unlock their potential.

I genuinely enjoy the 'internal workings' of organizations because I understand that human capital is the heart and most valuable asset of any successful organization. That's why I've focused on creating internal networks, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and engagement initiatives designed to foster inclusive leadership throughout my career. This work is fueled by a genuine belief in the transformative power of investing in people and creating opportunities.

And I’ve seen firsthand how these initiatives can transform workplace cultures, creating environments where women are advancing into leadership roles, driving innovation, and fostering positive change. It's about witnessing the power of human potential unlocked, and that’s a deeply rewarding experience.

What advice would you give to women aspiring to lead in peace and security, and what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women's Day, for me, is a moment of profound reflection and renewed commitment. It's a vital opportunity to acknowledge the indispensable contributions of women to global peace and security. More importantly, it's a call to action—a reminder that equitable leadership isn't a future aspiration, but a present necessity.

To women aspiring to lead in these critical fields, or any field for that matter, my advice is this: lead with authenticity. Embrace your unique perspective and cultivate a leadership style rooted in purpose and integrity. Your voice is essential in shaping the future.

And lastly, recognize the power of connection. Cultivating strong professional networks and fostering collaborative partnerships is extremely important. Lifting others as you rise is not just a gesture of goodwill; it's a strategic necessity. I encourage you to embrace this journey with courage and unwavering belief.

Read the story from the two other colleagues

• Fostering Growth and Inclusion of Women Through Cross-Institutional Mentorship
• Empowering Women Leaders and Building Inclusive Movements for Lasting Change