This year, International Women’s Day carries particular significance for the Chelsea Group, coinciding with our 25th anniversary. Operating in some of the world’s most complex environments over decades has shown us that progress – especially for women – is neither inevitable nor evenly distributed. Real change, the kind that opens pathways for all women and girls to contribute, lead and succeed, demands intention and action.
The year also marks a milestone on the global stage: the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a defining commitment to advancing women’s rights. While progress has been made, the reality is stark: many women, especially in the fragile regions where we work, still face systemic barriers to safety, education, employment, and leadership.
For us, International Women’s Day is a time to focus on our responsibility as a company shaping workplaces, economies, and communities – and to celebrate our women staff members and allies, across the world, who create positive change every day.
(L–R) From the Chelsea Group’s companies: Juliana Narvaez (Longport Aviation Security), Tehmeem Taseen and Alice Laugher (CTG), Kate Beddis and Vicki Howe (Leadership Trust)
Women driving impact at every level
When Paola Mendez stepped into her role as Andean Regional Manager at Longport Aviation Security, she wasn’t just advancing her career – she was expanding the definition of leadership for women who are balancing family, relocation, and ambition in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
“Starting my career as a single mother in a new city required immense courage,” Paola says. “That experience shaped my drive and my belief in leading by example.”
Today, Paola oversees operations in five countries, managing a team of 2,300 employees. With support from Longport’s leadership, she builds a workplace where women and men alike are encouraged to grow, learn, and lead.
“I want my daughter and the women I mentor to know that success is achievable.” – Paola Mendez, Andean Regional Manager, Longport
In the Caribbean, Juliana Narvaez, Regional Manager for Longport, leads a $20 million business across five countries with a workforce that is 70% women. Juliana’s 25-year career – from security agent to regional leader – demonstrates how an inclusive culture strengthens both individuals and the business itself.
“Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, whether it’s navigating regulatory changes, working with diverse teams, or developing new leaders,” she tells us. “In the Caribbean, we operate like a family – working together makes problem-solving and reaching our goals even more rewarding.
Juliana also recognises that her experience is not universal. “I’m lucky that Longport has always been an equal opportunity employer – not all women have that.” She hopes future generations of women and girls can pursue careers in aviation security free from the gender-based limitations that persist in many regions.
“I encourage everyone to pursue their passions. It’s the surest way to achieve your dreams,” she says.
Inclusive leadership in conflict-affected environments
In conflict-affected regions, the barriers for women leaders are particularly steep. Tehmeem Taseen, Programme Manager at CTG, knows this firsthand. Raised in Kashmir, she grew up aware of how conflict and cultural expectations restrict women’s access to education, careers, and leadership.
Now working at the intersection of technology and humanitarian staffing, Tehmeem supports women navigating similar barriers in some of the world’s most fragile settings.
“When women like me step forward, it shows others they can too. Representation matters.” – Tehmeem Taseen, Programme Manager, CTG
CTG’s commitment to gender equality comes from the top. Alice Laugher, CTG’s CEO, has long championed the inclusion of women in humanitarian response, believing that sustainable peace and development are only possible when women are fully included.
“For too long, women’s voices have been sidelined and their contributions overlooked,” Alice says. “As we near the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, now is the time for bold, collective action – we simply can’t afford to wait another 30 years for a world where women everywhere thrive.”
This ripple effect, where one woman’s leadership creates space for the next, is central to CTG’s mission and directly supports UN Women’s vision of workplaces where all women and girls have the opportunity and support they need to succeed.
For International Women’s Day 2025, CTG helps empower women and allies alike. Click the image to learn more.
Women shaping leadership and learning
At Leadership Trust, a Chelsea Group company specialising in leadership development, women are shaping the way future leaders think and grow. Kate Beddis, Head of Learning Experience at Leadership Trust, believes leadership should be both equitable and transformational.
“It’s not just about teaching leadership skills. It’s about showing women they belong at the table and coaching them to claim that space confidently.”
Through her work, Kate supports leaders from around the world, each on their own path to self-discovery. She hopes that self-awareness and confidence-building become standard components of every young woman’s education.
“I hope girls are encouraged to believe from an early age that they have a true place as the coaches and mentors for the leaders of industry.” – Kate Beddis, Head of Learning Experience, Leadership Trust
Vicki Howe, Course Director and Coach at Leadership Trust, agrees, adding that progress isn’t measured solely in major moments. “It’s in the small, everyday conversations where women support each other, challenge bias, and amplify each other’s voices.”
A commitment to sustainable inclusion
At Chelsea Group’s headquarters, Yioula Petrou, General Manager and PA to the Chairman, recounts an ongoing career shaped by trust, opportunity, and deep professional loyalty. Over her 20 years with the Group, she progressed from Personal Assistant to the Chairman to General Manager and Director of the holding company – a journey she attributes to her dedication and the belief others had in her potential.
“The trust placed in me and the opportunities I was given allowed me to grow alongside the business,” Yioula says. “The more women see what’s possible, the more they’ll push those possibilities even further. My journey is proof that dedication, perseverance, and passion can open doors to incredible opportunities.”
Looking forward: our shared responsibility
The Chelsea Group exists to provide foundations for growth in the world’s most challenging environments. But those foundations must be socially sustainable – built on equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all. From security to humanitarian staffing, leadership training to aviation, our companies are committed to ensuring that all women and girls, no matter where they live, have a clear, supported path to leadership.
To learn more about the Chelsea Group’s companies and our full suite of services to support safety and stability in complex environments, click here.
