Wonder Women of Today - ‘Barrier Breaker’

Women of today are a diverse group of individuals who are making significant contributions to society in a wide range of fields. They are breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and working towards gender equality. Women of today are leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, engineers, artists, and activists, among many other roles. They are making strides in traditionally male-dominated fields, fighting for social justice and equality, and advocating for women's rights around the world.

Women are also navigating the challenges of balancing work and family, pursuing education and career goals, and managing their mental and physical health. They are strong, resilient, and determined to make their mark on the world. However, there are certain barriers that women need to break in order to progress. 

Women breaking barriers is a phenomenon that has been happening for decades, and it is gaining momentum in recent years. Women all over the world are challenging the status quo and breaking down gender-based barriers in various fields, including politics, business, science, technology, and sports, among others.

In politics, women have broken barriers by becoming heads of state and government, ministers, ambassadors, and lawmakers. For example, Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, is the first woman, the first African American woman, and the first Indian American woman to hold this office. Even in business, women have become CEOs of large corporations, entrepreneurs, and investors. Indra Nooyi is an Indian-American business executive and former CEO and chairperson of PepsiCo who has consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 most powerful women. They are breaking down barriers in industries that have traditionally been male-dominated, such as finance, tech, and engineering. 

In science and technology, women are making significant contributions, breaking barriers, and challenging stereotypes. They are pursuing careers in fields such as AI, robotics, and biotechnology, among others and are pushing boundaries and making ground-breaking discoveries. In sports, women are breaking down barriers by fighting for equal pay, representation, and opportunities. They are setting records and winning championships and inspiring the next generation of female athletes. 

Despite the progress that has been made, there is still much work to be done. Women are still underrepresented in many fields, and they still face obstacles such as gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence. Despite all this, women continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.

There are several ways that women can break barriers:

Education

Education is a powerful tool that can help women break barriers by equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields. By pursuing education and training opportunities, women can break down barriers in industries that have traditionally been male-dominated. Women can break barriers by becoming leaders in their fields. They can seek out leadership positions, whether in business, politics or their communities and use their platform to inspire and empower others.

Networking 

Networking is essential for breaking down barriers. Women can build professional networks, join industry groups, and seek out mentors to help them navigate the challenges of their careers. Women can be empowered by participating in political processes such as voting, running for office, and advocating for policies that promote gender equality and women's rights.

Healthcare Services

Access to healthcare is essential for women's empowerment. By providing women with access to healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare, they can take control of their health and well-being. Empowering women involves addressing and preventing gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and other forms of violence against women. By creating safe and supportive environments for women, they can feel empowered to take control of their lives and make decisions that are in their best interests. Women can break barriers by advocating for gender equality and challenging discrimination. By speaking out against sexism, harassment, and other forms of discrimination, women can help change attitudes and create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Campaigns

Achieving equal rights for women also involves changing cultural attitudes and beliefs that propagate gender-based discrimination and inequality. This can be achieved through awareness-raising campaigns, public education, and social and cultural programs that promote gender equality.

It's important to note that breaking barriers is not something that can be achieved overnight. It takes time, persistence, and resilience. Women who are committed to breaking barriers must be prepared to face challenges, setbacks, and obstacles along the way, but with determination and persistence, they can make a difference and help create a more equal and just world.

International Women’s Day on 8^th March worldwide also celebrates and highlights the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. In today’s time, International Women’s Day is commemorated in a variety of ways worldwide. While in several countries, it is a public holiday, it is observed socially or locally in others to celebrate and promote the achievements of women. The United Nations marks and promotes the day every year by focusing on a particular issue through campaigns. The theme this year is #EmbraceEquity- while the United Nations’ theme is ‘DigitalALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality’. 

The purpose of the day is to acknowledge and celebrate women’s achievements. It is celebrated to promote women’s rights and equality.  There are many ways to celebrate International Women's Day and honour the achievements of women around the world. Here are some ideas on how you can actively celebrate and enjoy Women’s Day:

1. Look for local events that celebrate International Women's Day, such as rallies, marches, panel discussions, film screenings, and cultural events. 

2. Show your support for women-owned businesses by shopping at women-owned stores or buying products from women-owned businesses online. 

3. Consider making a donation to a women's organization that works to promote gender equality and women's empowerment, either locally or globally. 

4. Take the time to learn about the history of the women's rights movement and the achievements of women in your community and around the world. Read books, watch documentaries, or attend lectures on women's issues.

5. Take the time to thank the women in your life who have made a difference, whether it's a family member, friend, mentor, or co-worker. 

6. Commit to taking action to promote gender equality and women's empowerment, whether it's by advocating for policies that promote women's rights, volunteering with a women's organization, or mentoring young women in your community.

Overall, celebrating International Women's Day is about recognizing the achievements of women, promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, and taking action to create a more just and equitable world.