Lifting as We Lead: CEOs Share Wisdom in Atlanta

By Donzhei Green, Intern & Program Coordinator, 100 Women Pathway

In October, months of planning came to fruition at Planet Women’s 100 Women Pathway gathering in Atlanta. This gathering was for our fourth cohort of the Pathway, focused on rising leaders in the U.S. Southeast. After building relationships virtually, participants came together for three extraordinary days. Together, these rising leaders explored their unique personal journeys, leadership styles, and career goals, learned from career coaches and creative facilitators, and bonded with one another.

One major highlight was the CEO Panel, in which three powerful, inspiring, and ambitious executive leaders shared their journeys. The panel was moderated by Kristine Zeigler, co-founder of Planet Women, and featured Dr. Tiara Moore, Founder and CEO of Black in Marine Science (BIMS); Monica Thornton, Executive Director of The Nature Conservancy, Georgia Chapter; and Raina Turner-Greenlea, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Black Sustainability.

From left to right: Panelists Monica Thornton, Raina Turner-Greenlea and Dr. Tiara Moore with moderator Kristine Zeigler. © Planet Women.

Each panelist shared their unique experiences, offering insight into overcoming challenges, leading with authenticity, and driving meaningful change in the environmental sector. Dr. Moore’s story of breaking barriers in marine science inspired listeners to embrace resilience, while Ms. Thornton emphasized the importance of collaboration in conservation efforts. Ms. Turner-Greenlea’s journey into sustainable development showcased the power of grassroots activism and community-centered solutions.

Read on for the important lessons shared in this panel!

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Raina Turner-Greenlea shared her inspiring journey of determination and drive, recounting how her ambition led her to knock on doors, offering to work for free. By the end of her first week working for someone, they told her, “I can’t let you work for free,” and offered her a job. This pivotal moment, she said, shaped her approach to life: “Persistent until I succeed.”

Similarly, Monica Thornton reflected on a particularly challenging moment in her professional career when she faced persistent workplace bullying. The bullying came from someone who, she was informed, would soon become her boss. Seeking guidance and resolution, Monica turned to her HR department, expecting support. Instead, she was met with a dismissive and troubling response: “Your name ain’t Becky. People who look like us have kicked down doors to be here.” The implication was clear—she was expected to endure the bullying because others had done so before her.

That moment was a turning point for Monica. It set her on a personal and professional journey to advocate for herself and to find her voice, refusing to accept mistreatment in silence.

Talking with Pathway participants after the CEO Panel in October 2024. © Planet Women.

Mentorship vs. Sponsorship

Another topic that was discussed by the panelists was the value of having both mentors and sponsors and what is the difference between the two. Raina explained: “A mentor opens doors for you, while a sponsor tells you the truth.” She credited her sponsor for empowering her and being transparent and open with sharing the influence, power, and connections he held, especially with her when she asked.

Finding Joy and Avoiding Burnout

All three panelists shared personal stories of recognizing their own burnout and discussed the measures they take to prevent it. Each woman highlighted the non-negotiable need for self-care, from taking vacations to maintaining control over their schedules. One key point that resonated with me was Dr. Moore's emphasis on centering joy in her work. She described how she fosters joyful workplaces and prioritizes partnerships built on respect and authenticity.

One question this discussion left me with was: At what point in their personal or professional journeys were they able to attain true autonomy and flexibility in their work-life balance? As someone in the early stages of my career, I aspire to reach a point where I can have genuine control over my financial, professional, and personal life. I would love to learn more about how they navigated this journey.

Group photo of the 100 Women Pathway’s fourth cohort in Atlanta. © Planet Women.

Creating Your Own Path

Raina Turner-Greenlea shared her journey through career challenges, including the frustration of dealing with ignorant colleagues and the lack of representation in many spaces. Despite the stress and exhaustion of working in unsupportive environments, Raina described her unwavering determination and passion to address these systemic gaps actively.

She reflected on the constant need to validate her existence and justify her presence in certain spaces—a struggle that resonates with many individuals from marginalized backgrounds. In explaining the importance of advocating for and supporting underrepresented communities, Raina often resorted to what she called the “sinking boat” analogy. She used this metaphor to highlight the importance of prioritizing spaces with the greatest needs: if all boats are sinking, some boats have holes that make it impossible to fully remove the water and stay afloat.

However, after constantly having to explain this analogy to others to validate why she wants to advocate and push for support and work in a specific area, Raina admitted feeling drained and disheartened. Eventually, she decided to "get out of the boat," swim to shore, and build her own boat. This new “boat” became a space where she could lead on her terms, inviting those genuinely interested in helping and supporting her mission. This decision, she said, has been far more fulfilling and empowering.

A Shared Moment of Empowerment

Towards the end of the panel event, Kristine Zeigler posed a powerful question to the panelists: “What does it feel like to be in this room looking at these women?” Each panelist responded with words that reflected the profound energy of the moment—joy, power, beauty, gratitude, and a deep sense of being seen and heard. Dr. Tiara Moore’s response was particularly moving. Wearing a shirt that read “I am the change I want to see,” she shared, “This reminds me why we do the work we do.” Her words encapsulated the heart of the panel—a reminder of the impact they’re making and the legacy they continue to build.

 The CEO Panel at Planet Women’s workshop truly highlighted the incredible journeys of these women leaders and their drive to push for a healthy planet. Dr. Moore, Ms. Thornton, and Ms. Turner-Greenlea reminded us that leadership isn’t about avoiding challenges but facing them head-on, lifting others as we go, and carving out our own path.

Another key takeaway from the CEO Panel for me is the important role that Planet Women plays in creating a supportive, inclusive space for women in the environmental sector. The panelists highlighted how Planet Women is not just an organization, but a platform that empowers women to lead, advocate, and make lasting change. The panel and broader 100 Women Pathway gathering reaffirms for me that the work we do at Planet Women matters, builds community, and empowers women who are driving real change. 

In the video below, hear from some of the Pathway’s cohort 4 participants about their experience in the program.