Progress Celebrates International Women’s Day by Honouring Women’s Leadership and Resilience
Progress Care Solutions mark International Women’s Day this week with celebrations at head office and a powerful reflection from Founder and CEO, Bal Dhanoa MBE, on her journey as a woman, leader and pioneer in the care sector.
Colleagues gathered at the Progress head office on Monday to celebrate the occasion with colourful decorations, balloons and cupcakes, creating a vibrant atmosphere to recognise the contributions of women across the organisation. The moment provided an opportunity to celebrate the impact women have had in shaping Progress over the past 25 years.
To mark the day, Bal Dhanoa MBE shared a personal article reflecting on her remarkable journey, from growing up in Britain as part of the first generation of British-born children of Indian heritage to building Progress into a leading care provider supporting children, young people and families.
In her reflection, Bal speaks about growing up between two cultures and balancing family traditions with her own ambitions. She recalls a childhood shaped by the music and culture of the 1970s alongside the responsibilities placed on young women within her community.
Education became a turning point in her life. It opened doors to a career in social care where she discovered a deep passion for supporting vulnerable children and families. Over time, that passion grew into a vision that would lead to the founding of Progress.
The early years of building the organisation were challenging. Bal balanced family responsibilities, a full-time career and significant personal risk to establish specialist fostering services and children’s homes at a time when opportunities for women in leadership were limited.
Despite the challenges, her determination to provide the highest standards of care never wavered. Over the years, that vision has grown into the organisation Progress is today, built on compassion, resilience and a commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on her journey, Bal highlighted the importance of resilience, education and believing in one’s own potential.
“If my journey inspires even one woman to believe in herself and pursue her ambitions without boundaries, then every challenge along the way has been worthwhile,” she said.
Women continue to play a vital role across every part of Progress, from frontline care teams and managers to senior leadership. Their dedication and professionalism remain central to the organisation’s mission of supporting children, young people and families.
International Women’s Day offered colleagues the chance to celebrate those contributions and recognise the many women whose work continues to shape the future of Progress.
Bal’s full International Women’s Day reflection can be read here on the Progress website.