Grace Pinto
Managing director
Ryan International Group of Institutions
Mar 8: "No development tool is more effective than education of girls and empowerment of women." This statement of Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of UN throws light on the significant role bestowed upon women in our society. Such statements and testimonials simply encourage effective action for advancing and recognizing women and their ability to make things happen.
Today on March 8, the International Women's Day will give an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the achievements of women and their commendable contribution in various spheres all around the world. Recalling the great historic conference of Beijing in 1995, where 189 governments adopted a visionary roadmap for gender equality, this year, the UN Women organization will celebrate the International Women’s Day with a wonderful theme "Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Picture it!" This day will celebrate many women achievements that have come since then and recognize challenges, and spur needful action to address the gaps that still deprive women on their right to live a dignified life. Once again UN Women Organisation will re-energize the vision and picture a world where women and girls have equal rights, freedom and opportunity in every sphere of life.
It is quite apparent that women are increasingly taking leadership in the global economy, as both employees and entrepreneurs. Various surveys have noted that companies with more women on their boards have higher returns to shareholders and those countries with higher levels of gender equality have higher economic growth. Education has indeed given a huge breakthrough to a large number of women to take a lead in enhancing the economy and stimulating growth. It has been forecasted that nearly one billion women will enter the global economy in the coming decade and it will definitely bring about a formidable change, dramatically reshaping the world business and economies. While we speak about evolving technology and growing globalization, women contribution is also lending to its development and progress.
In current times, a woman can exercise her choices, such as participating in politics, getting an education and having an income too. Over the decades much progress has been made; however, there is still a lot of space when it comes to women security, violence and discrimination against women and gender equality. It is time for every nation to come together again for women to complete this journey. Today every country has to renew its commitment and strengthen action towards women empowerment and their rights. There were times when a woman was considered to be diffident but the emerging and developing nations have proved the economic potential and corporate stature women possess. I believe therefore that every woman can make a positive influence not only in her family but also on the entire society. She has the power to transform a society.
On this Women’s Day, I urge every woman to happily embrace to your own individuality because it gives you your own identity. Anchoring yourself to values, use your voice and stand up for your rights. You are born to win, your creator has endowed you with divine qualities of endurance, resilience and faith that can move mountains. Follow your dreams; follow your heart and never give up. Paulo Coelho has beautifully said that, "when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." Look at history that has witnessed women of great stature. May it inspire, motivate and energise you to do something significant in your area of expertise.
In India, along with the government, there are various organisations and groups working to bring healthcare, education, equality and a safe environment for women to fearlessly exercise their rights. Their laudable efforts need to be appreciated and applauded. Let us together make our voices heard for a better world that will translate the vision of empowering women to reality.
Wishing you a very Happy Women's Day!