When people talk about Women’s History Month, the focus is often on the accomplishments of women. And those stories matter. But there’s another part of the conversation that deserves attention too – the people who helped open the doors.

For me, that person was Mr. Knight.

I started working in his law office when I was 16 years old. At first, I was the receptionist answering phones and greeting clients. But Mr. Knight saw something in me that I probably didn’t see in myself yet.

He expected excellence. Truly. He was tough, detail-oriented, and never let me take shortcuts. At the time, I’m sure there were days I thought he was being too hard on me. But what I know now is that he was investing in me.

Over time he trusted me with more responsibility. By the time I left his office at 20, I wasn’t just answering phones anymore. I was researching legal issues, interviewing clients, and supporting case work. He challenged me, guided me, and constantly encouraged me to continue my education.

Mr. Knight and his wife also became something more than employers. They were like second parents to me during those years. They looked out for me, supported me when I needed it, and made sure I understood that my future could be bigger than the path I had imagined for myself.

That kind of mentorship changes a life.

Research backs that up. Studies from organizations like McKinsey and LeanIn.org consistently show that sponsorship and mentorship are two of the most powerful drivers of career advancement for women. Women with strong sponsors are more likely to be promoted, more likely to take on leadership opportunities, and more likely to stay on ambitious career paths.

Yet many women report having fewer senior sponsors than men early in their careers. Sometimes it’s because leaders hesitate to mentor across gender lines. Sometimes it’s simply because those connections don’t happen naturally.

But when they do, the impact is powerful.

When men in leadership advocate for women, mentor them, and challenge them to grow, they help create stronger organizations and stronger leaders. Mentorship isn’t just about advice…it’s about opening doors, building confidence, and helping someone see possibilities they might not see yet.

I’m grateful every day that Mr. Knight did that for me.

This Women’s History Month, I’m thinking about the people who believed in us early on. The mentors who pushed us, challenged us, and helped us step into our potential.

Sometimes the most powerful way to support the next generation of women leaders is simple:

See their potential. Expect excellence. And give them the opportunity to rise.

Here for your leadership journey,
Cristina “Someone Saw Potential” Filippo