Even for a Day: How KFC’s Girls Takeover Initiative Is Rewriting the C-Suite

What if one day in the C-suite could change a young woman’s entire view of what’s possible? In this special episode of the Women in Restaurant Leadership podcast, we explore the transformative power of representation, partnership, and purpose through KFC’s Girls Takeover—a global initiative in collaboration with Plan International that invites young women to step into executive leadership roles, even if just for a day.You’ll hear from Shirlyn Huang, a student and youth advocate who stepped into the role of Chief People & Culture Officer at KFC as part of the initiative, as well as Laura Willis, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships at Plan International, and Nivera Wallani, Global Chief Development Officer at KFC who handed over her seat during the initiative. Together, they reflect on what it means for young women to see themselves in positions of power, and why programs like these are so much more than symbolic.This conversation gets real about confidence, access, and the ripple effect of putting young women at the center of change. If you’ve ever wondered whether one day can really make a difference, or how brands can move from intention to action when it comes to empowering future leaders—this episode is your answer.