Roots to Routes: Navigating Identity, Belonging, and Growth

What better way to usher in the new year at WLGYL, than with an International Women’s Day event hosted, in partnership with Women at LinkedIn (Women@) and LinkedIn Asian Alliance (LIAA)!?

Our lovely community gathered at the Linkedin London HQ on 12 March, where the event began with a LinkedIn profile coaching session led by some of their brilliant employees. This session focused on practical insider tools, aimed at elevating and optimising our LinkedIn profiles, prompting questions on profile clarity and clear communication of skillsets, current and future ambitions.  

Our first LinkedIn-focused session took place back in 2024, so this was a full circle moment! You can read more about these insights here.

The theme “Roots to Routes: A conversion on identity”- a very vulnerable and relatable, but important conversation for our community - was brought to life by our wonderful panellists, who shared honest reflections on their experiences as immigrant women living in the UK. 

Our panellists shared the nuances and beauty of their journeys, navigating new spaces and the duality of the immigrant experience, an ongoing process of figuring out identity and belonging especially in the workplace.

Here are some key take aways from the panel discussion that stuck with us:

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Panellists shared that overcoming imposter syndrome begins with self-compassion - speaking to yourself with the same kindness and understanding we would offer to our loved ones. Ask yourself, would you talk to your friend the same way?  

Workplace Intersection with Culture
The discussion explored how culture shapes our understanding of respect in the workplace, and the need to redefine it. Respect is not the absence of audacity or staying silent, but rather the ability to communicate with confidence while remaining considerate and authentic.

How Culture Shows Up in the Workplace
A conversation on the common experiences of tackling stereotypes, lack of representation in leadership roles and being perceived through a limited lens rather than as individuals in the workplace. These were challenged by being more involved in DEI initiatives, creating space to broaden perceptions of one’s heritage, while also learning about the intersections and shared experiences across cultures.  

Reframing Struggle into Strength
A key theme was the importance of surrounding yourself with a strong support system such as mentors and cheerleaders who uplift, encourage, and advocate for you. In turn, there was a shared commitment to creating those same spaces for others who may be going through the same journey.

How Childhood Shapes Us Today
The conversation also touched on the impact of upbringing, recognising the sacrifices made by previous generations. For many, this has translated into a drive to work twice as hard, sometimes at the cost of rest and play. Yet there was a reminder that we are here to experience life fully, to embrace opportunities, and to recognise that “we are more than just our shells”, which translates to ‘the art of doing things simply because’.

Advice for Young Women Navigating Similar Paths

Jonelle Awomoyi – Do not be held back from doing what you’re drawn to because there is space for you, even if you are the first. 

Yinsey Wang – I am my ancestors wildest dream, do not let other people restrict you from writing your story or being the first to write the script. 

Nabeeda Bakali- Abrar – As we shine our light, we give others permission to shine as well. 

Tariro Madzingira – The more things you do that are true to you the more you build self-trust.  In addition, two things can be true at once - you can hold space for two homes, with each one forming a valid and meaningful part of your identity.

What stood out most across all four panellists was their shared resilience, the determination to keep pushing forward through their individual journeys. While each path is different, each journey felt uniquely relatable to the audience, ultimately reflecting the inspiring women they are today. 

In her closing remarks, Dunja shared that her father’s poem inspired the “Roots to Routes” theme, highlighting the power of storytelling to help us reflect on our own journeys. Nicola then looked ahead to the year, sharing plans for upcoming events, coaching opportunities, and ways to get involved through volunteering.

As we wrapped up the evening, one question stayed with us: What is something we can do differently with the opportunities around us today?

Cheers to a new year of making connections!

Until the next squeeze, 

Stephanie xx