Denver, Colorado Mar 11, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - Sheena Kadi, a seasoned advocate and political strategist, has been featured in an exclusive online blog exploring the critical need for more women and LGBTQ leaders in boardrooms and executive roles. With over two decades of experience advancing LGBTQ rights and progressive causes, Sheena offers an insightful perspective on why diverse leadership isn’t just a matter of fairness—it’s a necessity for stronger businesses, communities, and policies.
In the blog, Sheena discusses how traditional leadership spaces have long been dominated by straight, cisgender men and the systemic challenges that continue to limit opportunities for women and LGBTQ individuals in corporate and policy-making roles. Drawing from her own journey as a queer Arab woman in leadership, she highlights the barriers many still face, from gender bias to the pressure of code-switching in professional environments.
“I’ve been in plenty of boardrooms, and every time I step into one, I recognize that just being there is important,” Sheena states in the blog. “Leadership isn’t about fitting into outdated molds—it’s about changing them.”
Sheena outlines the tangible benefits of diverse leadership, citing research that shows companies with gender-diverse executive teams are more profitable and that inclusive workplaces lead to higher employee satisfaction and retention. But beyond the business case, she emphasizes the power of visibility—how simply seeing women and LGBTQ leaders in decision-making positions inspires others to pursue leadership paths.
“When women and LGBTQ leaders take up space in boardrooms, we show others that they can, too,” Sheena explains. “Representation isn’t just symbolic—it creates real change.”
The blog also delves into solutions for increasing diversity in leadership. Sheena calls for more mentorship, sponsorship, and proactive efforts to create opportunities for underrepresented professionals. She challenges allies in leadership to use their influence to advocate for inclusive workplaces, equal pay, and policy changes that support diverse employees.
“True leadership isn’t about exclusivity—it’s about collaboration and inclusion,” Sheena says. “If we want better workplaces and policies, we need decision-makers who reflect the diversity of the people they serve.”
Sheena remains committed to breaking down barriers for women and LGBTQ professionals, using her platform to encourage more inclusive leadership models. Now based between Los Angeles and Denver, she continues to work at the intersection of advocacy, policy, and mentorship to uplift underrepresented voices.
“Leadership is evolving,” she concludes. “We’re not just fighting for a seat at the table—we’re redefining what leadership looks like.”
About Sheena Kadi
Sheena Kadi, MBA, is a dedicated advocate with over 20 years of experience advancing LGBTQ rights and progressive causes. A queer, Arab millennial, she began her journey by founding PRISM, Ohio’s first LGBTQ student group at a Catholic university, and has since led campaigns to combat discrimination, pass inclusive policies, and build bipartisan coalitions.
As Toledo’s first LGBTQ Liaison, Sheena helped the city earn its first 100% score on the HRC Municipal Equality Index. She contributed to the historic Obergefell v. Hodges case, securing marriage equality nationwide, and played pivotal roles in banning conversion therapy and passing Jude’s Law in Colorado.
Now living and working between Los Angeles and Denver, Sheena continues to champion equity and representation for marginalized communities. With a career spanning grassroots activism and national campaigns—including work for President Obama and Hillary Clinton—she remains committed to driving meaningful change.
To read the full blog, click here.
Media Contact
Sheena Kadi *****@sheenakadi.com https://www.sheenakadimba.com/
