Over the summer months, FIGO conducted in-depth interviews with 13 members of the LDI Voices network to gather insights into their experiences and perspectives. Representing all six programme countries—Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Nigeria and Pakistan—these healthcare professionals shared their journeys within the LDI Voices network and reflected on the broader LDI initiative, offering personal and professional reflections on their roles, the healthcare challenges they face and their visions for improving health outcomes in their countries.
From these discussions, six key themes emerged, shedding light on both the impact of the LDI Voices network and the aspirations of its members. These themes are explored in detail below.
Value of shared experience
LDI Voices participants celebrated the opportunity to hear from peers around the world and to offer their own experiences for discussion. Network meetings were described as ‘enlightening’, ‘reassuring’, ‘inspirational’ and ‘empowering’. These sessions offered tangible insights into the delivery of health services in different environments as well as learning how other women healthcare professionals were applying leadership skills in the workplace. This supportive exchange fostered peer learning and validation, as members found common ground in the challenges they face.
“As women leaders, or women in health, we’re able to have a forum where we can just talk about our issues, what is working, what is not working and what can work better” – LDI Voices member
Personal Growth
LDI Voices participants reported notable growth in confidence and skills through their involvement with the programme and network, becoming more assertive and self-assured. They credited specific experiences, like advocacy meetings and presentations, for boosting their belief in their abilities. Just one year into joining the LDI Voices network, nearly all participants felt more empowered to advocate following the LDI trainings and webinars.
“At first I was a bit hesitant to talk in front or others or on stage or things like that but I feel much more confident now. I can do things I’ve never done, it is a completely life-changing experience for me” – LDI Voices member
Shifts in Attitude
LDI Voices members noted that the program, particularly the Leadership Empowerment Series and global network, had transformed their perspectives, making them vocal advocates for gender equity in formal and informal settings. This shift empowered them to embrace leadership roles in health. Some members cited concrete actions, like advocating for female doctors in previously male-only departments. Most participants also observed positive changes in their healthcare facilities and professional societies since joining LDI Voices.
“Before the project we were just trying to adapt to whatever environment or whatever we are faced with at work. The project has helped us know that we actually have a voice. We can get a lot done by voicing our opinion and meeting with the key people that oversee decision-making” – LDI Voices member
Practical experience
In addition to trainings, webinars, and meetings, LDI Voices members emphasised the value of hands-on experience as clinicians, leaders and advocates. These practical opportunities allowed them to apply new skills and drive real change, leading some to secure more influential roles and invitations to lead discussions.
“Being given an opportunity to speak during the panel discussion has been quite impactful because it sparked conversations later on. I met several people and they were like ‘hey, we need to continue that conversation because I think it’s important’ – LDI Voices member
Involving other healthcare professionals
In May 2024, FIGO hosted a webinar on gender and task-sharing, featuring LDI Voices members as panelists. The webinar highlighted equitable partnerships among doctors, nurses and midwives, acknowledging the gendered dynamics within healthcare teams. Many participants referenced this webinar, noting increased collaboration and knowledge-sharing with nurses and midwives to strengthen productive and harmonious working.
“We are going to have a webinar for nurses and midwives so that we can also disseminate that information more and more and then start talking about the role of advocacy in reducing gender disparities” – LDI Voices member
Implementation gaps
While participants shared successes in advancing best practices and gender equity, many noted gaps between strong policies and actual enforcement. Issues like maternity leave and breastfeeding spaces often lacked consistent implementation, underscoring that policy change alone is insufficient without committed follow-through.
“The policies are there, but implementing the policies is something we need to start a conversation about” – LDI Voices member
Insights from the LDI Voices network underscore the transformative impact of shared experiences and advocacy in promoting gender equity and leadership in healthcare. As members gain confidence, their commitment to meaningful change is clear, but consistent policy implementation remains crucial. Learn more about the LDI project and their work here.
