Integral to the existence of the human race, women are not only an imperative unit of the human society but are also influencing the course of social change globally in the 21st century. I am a woman, I am living in a society where men respect women to a higher extent, yet where they prioritize that woman shouldn’t go and work outside, and take responsibility of the house chores.

I was the first female from my family who started job at a very young age to support my family, it wasn’t that easy. I faced many problems in the form of resistances from my family male members. My mother who is an inspiration for me, always encouraged her daughters to get education and supported in development of their career. Today I am all due to my mother’s support, love and encouragement. Today on Women’s International day I dedicated this day to my mother for her untiring efforts for her children’s.

I feel proud that I am working in an organization like “UNDP” where gender equality and the empowerment of women are at the heart of it’s the social and human development mandate. I believe that unless women and girls are able to fully realize their rights in all spheres of life, human development will not be advanced. UNDP ensured that gender equality and the empowerment of women are integrated into every aspect of its work to support countries to eradicate poverty, and reduce inequalities and exclusion. Gender equality is fundamental to a country’s development and essential to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Gender equality, centered in human rights, is both a development goal on its own and a critical factor for achieving sustainable development. It underlies one of the guiding principles of the 2030 Agenda for Development the concept of ‘leaving no one behind’.

This International Women’s Day, lets remind our little girls that they should foster to be literary legends, doctors, lawyers, painters, and dreamers. Let’s teach them to be believers in themselves as opposed to believers in a happily ever after.

I have been working in development sector for the past 13 years and living as a daughter, wife, sister and cook. All of this is not an easy task but aren’t we made to multi-task effortlessly? As a woman I see achievements, success in life and an immense potential for growth for the women in the Pakistani culture and society. I always pat myself on the back, same I also want all of the women to realize your inner beauty, your importance and your ability to make everything happen. Sadia Ijaz

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *