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Rutendo Gwatidzo, Changing Perspectives
Inferiority complex was a common feeling during my time of growing up in the village.
This was mainly because girls were often looked down upon from different aspects.
Even at school, we had a bigger number of boys compared to girls yet national statistics even for that time had more females versus males. This only shows the imbalance that was there in terms of empowerment. Boys were given more preference than girls.
Yet, the girl child still often being overlooked and marginalised in some areas or religions, holds immense potential to shape the world.
It is imperative that we celebrate her achievements, advocate for her rights and empower her to reach her full potential.
By investing in the girl child, we not only unlock her individual potential but also contribute to the overall progress and development of our communities and nations.
When you empower a woman, you empower a nation according to Dr Edna Mukurazhizha (founder and CEO of Empowered Woman Excel SACCO).
She is also the chairperson for Comesa Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB).
Dr Mukurazhizha works to empower women on a daily basis to rise above limitations and to make a difference hence her perspective on the capabilities of women is not theoretical but, practical.
Yesterday was the International Day of the Girl Child. It was a day not only about girls but also about the boys who stand beside them, supporting their dreams and aspirations.
Together, we can create a world where everyone—girls and boys alike can chase their dreams and shine bright.
Let us talk about dreams!
Every girl has a dream. It can be on becoming a scientist, artist, teacher, or even an astronaut.
Dreams are powerful; they are the guiding light that illuminates our paths and motivates us to reach for the stars.
It does not matter how ambitious or modest those dreams may be; what matters most is the unwavering belief in them. The journey for girls is not without its challenges, it is often marked by the rough terrain of gender inequality.
However, change is possible! Girls are strong, smart, and capable of overcoming obstacles, like plants pushing through concrete.
Breaking Barriers!
Many remarkable women have paved the way by breaking through barriers.
We have Dr Divine Simbi Ndhlukula, the founder and managing director for Securico Security, who broke barriers in a male dominated security industry.
Today she is one of the biggest employers in the nation with over 4 000 workers and more than 60 percent of them are females.
We also have Dr Evelyn Pangeti who broke barriers in the education industry. How about the long list of female CEOs and managing directors who are making a difference? All these positions used to be male dominated.
One of the challenges in many organisations is that of having male managers and or founders who look down upon female managers.
For some reason, they think that women are not capable hence they treat them with prejudice and stereotype.
We also have some male managers who treat women differently; they do not provide them with enough resources to prove a point that women are incapable.
Sadly, on the other hand, we find women who fight other women because they want to be the only ones to be recognised as barrier breakers.
I would like to challenge everyone to rise in solidarity promoting equal opportunities for women, knowing that when we put our strengths together, we all stand tall and strong.
Most of the challenges that we face today can easily erase if we all allow one another to realise our full potential. Arise and shine girl child, your time to shine is now!
Every girl is unique, just as every boy has his own individuality. Whether it is love for sports, science, art, or any other passion, embracing what makes you unique is vital.
Girls possess talents and interests that define who they are—whether it is painting, dancing, or solving puzzles. Be proud of these passions, for they are the colours that paint the canvas of your life!
Celebrate your own interests and strengths, adding to the beautiful mosaic of our community. As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child, let us hold on to three key messages for the girl child, dream big, break barriers, and celebrate your uniqueness.
I challenge every girl child to go out there, chase your dreams, and remember – you are an unstoppable force of nature!
Rutendo Gwatidzo is the managing consultant at The HUB HR Consultancy – as a culture and change management specialist. She is a multi-award winning leader, consultant, speaker and coach. She is also an author of “Born to Fight” and “Breaking the Silence” books. Feedback: 0714575805/ [email protected] mailto: [email protected] / Rutendo Gwatidzo_Official fb public page
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