Women and girls have made their mark in the world throughout history and continue to do so. Despite facing various barriers, we persevere. From breaking boundaries and defying stereotypes to creating a powerful impact in the world, we have been pushing the envelope further and further. Everywhere you look around, you’ll find strong women who’re doing amazing things! Do we recognise them?
Here are a few examples of the inspirational women and girls who we look up to:
Amika George started a campaign called Free Periods at the age of 17 after reading about girls in the UK having to miss school because they couldn’t afford menstrual products. They were using newspapers, toilet roll socks, essentially anything they could make do with to be able to get an education! Amika was not only shocked but also horrified at the fact that the government hadn’t taken any action, compelling Amika to start an online petition which soon gained traction. The aim of the petition was to lobby the government to provide free menstrual products in schools & colleges. Soon after, Amika held a protest where over 2000 young people passionately joined her. This was a real turning point for the cause. After 3 years of fighting for the cause, the government finally made a pledge to make free menstrual products available in all secondary schools and colleges.
Malala Yousafzai is another extraordinary woman who’s the epitome of resilience. She became an advocate for girls’ education when she herself was a child. This led to Taliban issuing a death threat against her & soon after, a gunman shot her as she was travelling back home from school. Despite going through this traumatic event, Malala gave a speech at the United Nations nine months after being shot, highlighting her focus on education & women’s rights!
“The terrorists thought that they would change our aims and stop our ambitions, but nothing changed in my life except this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage were born.
Malala continues to advocate for rights to education across the globe, creating lasting impact.
Similarly, teen activist Greta Thunberg is known to break down barriers by challenging world leaders to take action against climate change. After learning about global warming and climate change at a young age, she strives to raise awareness so that we can make the world a better place.
Women & girls are strong and resilient. We create change. We overcome obstacles. We are limitless! Which women & girls do you look up to and why? Feel free to share in the comments!