“The woman who survives intact and happy must be at once tender and tough. She must have convinced herself, or be in the unending process of convincing herself, that she, her values, and her choices are important.” ~ Maya Angelou.

With hope that every woman can find the inner strength to reach their goals, the support to walk with another and not alone, the opportunities for achievement – bearing witness to their brilliance, I say to every woman – mother or not: You have the ability in you to impact the next generation of our children, both girls and boys, to have a positive image of themselves for affecting our culture and, to nurture and protect the emotional well-being of innumerable girls and boys; so that they grow up to be women and men, hand in hand, with mutual respect, kindness and integrity towards one another.

 

As a seventh-generation Australian woman of Muslim faith, and now a mother of three beautiful boys, I have immense gratitude and feel honoured to associate with many beautiful, kind women in my life.

To the single mothers, who live their life to uphold justice, while in continuous service of the underprivileged.

To the sisters, who always give their best, in dynamic ways and charismatically.

To the loyal friends, who are always committed to the greater good of building stronger, healthier families and wholesome communities.

To the women I know who have touched my life, inspired me or helped me – your advice, your achievements, your drive, in whichever form, I hope that you will never be discouraged from being your true, unique self.

To educate and empower any woman is to educate and empower her family; the woman who is raising the next generation, in whatever capacity or approach- with an understanding of her purpose, strengths, and goals- is truly a remarkable leader.

With introspection and insight in herself, she passes on her radiance, as a beacon, to all those she associates with.

For every woman, that is battling away – whether in her home, in her workplace, while homeschooling her children, with her family and relatives, just life in general- being true to themselves and upholding good values- I hope they know this:

Each and every day you give an honourable standing, your life is worth living. I hope and pray that someday we can, and will coexist, in a world where no woman has to live with violence.

Your body is sacred and to be honoured – not to be exploited or touched without your will, and that you are able to be duly respected for your intelligence also.

The women leaders of tomorrow are being nurtured today, and we do have a significant impact on someone, somewhere. Never underestimate your contribution to the lives you have touched and will go on to do so.

 

No effort is ever wasted.

 

Because together, hand in hand, we (can) and are changing our world — by having belief in ourselves and empowering our homes.