A recent discussion highlights a long-standing oversight in global water debates: the focus on women and girls as *users* of water, while neglecting their roles within the water sector itself. For decades, international agendas have prioritized water access and sanitation for women and girls, a crucial concern. However, the gender gap extends beyond usage, impacting women’s participation in water-related employment and, critically, in water governance structures. This underrepresentation hinders effective and equitable water management. Addressing this imbalance is vital for sustainable solutions. Ulrike Kelm’s work underscores the necessity of broadening the gender lens to encompass these often-overlooked dimensions within the water sector.