Questions to Raissa de Haas - Cofounder & CEO - Double Dutch drinks

What does IWD mean to you? 

I think it’s a great initiative to celebrate the amazing achievements women across the globe have accomplished and gives a much-needed stage to the inequality there still is today. This day reminds us there is still so much to be done, but initiatives like this really help give all women a voice and are a small start to tackle the issue & challenges women face.

Why haven't we achieved equality, despite legislation in place regarding pay? 

I don’t think this is something that can be changed overnight, it’s embedded in our culture for so long that we need to be patient. There is only so much firms and governments can do, and from there on it’s really on every single one of us to be committed to help drive change.  Although I’m really confident there is happening a lot of positive movement in this space! 

How would you advise young women leaders on how to build confidence in their ability as a manager and leader?

Firstly, not look at yourself as a female leader / manager but as a skilled leader / manager with your own amazing competences. Try to look at it from a positive way, there are lots of benefits of being female– from a founder perspective fore mostly I think we stand out more  in a male-dominated industry and thus we are more memorable which helps with Double Dutch’ brand awareness. 

What initiatives should companies invest in to promote women in leadership? 

I think that depends on the size and journey companies are in. If it’s just a small initiative or having some targets in place, it will help. We have recently launched a Female bartender scholarship programme to provide access to training, mentoring and support for aspiring female bartending talent. Even if we are still quite small with small budgets, we are trying to make a small change and on our part we are also relying on other female leaders that they get involved in our program.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? 

Surround yourself with great people who believe in you & support you, whether that is in mentors, investors or colleagues & team members

Is there a particular leader you look up to? 

It’s a bit cliché but there are so many amazing men & women I look up to, from my sister to some of my friends who have built incredible businesses to Michelle Obama pushing for female empowerment.

What advice will you give to your younger self? 

Everything takes longer than you expect it to be, but that’s ok

Raissa de Haas

Double Dutch drinks