“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” — Maya Angelou Each year on April 23rd, the world pauses to recognize World Book and Copyright Day, a global initiative by UNESCO that celebrates books as windows into knowledge, culture, and human imagination. It is also a call to protect the rights of creators, especially authors, poets, publishers, and thinkers, whose words move the world. Books are more than just pages; they are portals to our history, identity, innovation, and voice. They document the soul of a people, preserve the memories of generations, and give wings to the dreams of those who dare to envision new possibilities. In this regard, the written word becomes not only a reflection of our past but a blueprint for a more inclusive, compassionate, and just future. For women everywhere, writing has always been more than expression, it has been liberation. From…
International Women’s Day: Building a World Where Every Woman Belongs
“I raise my voice—not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” — Malala Yousafzai In a crowded conference hall in New York, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), stood before an audience of global leaders. She recounted her journey—how she had to fight for a seat at the table in a world where leadership was often defined by men. “I was once told I was too ambitious, too strong-willed,” she said, “but the world needs ambitious women. We belong in leadership, in decision-making, in every room where progress is shaped.” Her words resonated with millions of women worldwide who continue to push against the barriers that hold them back. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” serves as a powerful reminder that the time for incremental change is over. Now is the moment to…
Her Voice in Science: Let’s Celebrate a Decade of Progress
“The future of our world is only as bright as the future of our girls.” – Michelle Obama As we commemorate the tenth International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, 2025, we reflect on the strides made and the challenges that remain in amplifying women’s voices in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This year’s theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” underscores the critical role women play in driving scientific innovation and the importance of inclusive representation. A Decade of Growth: Women in STEM Over the past decade, the number of women in STEM occupations has doubled, surpassing one million. This significant achievement is a testament to the dedication of organizations and initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap in these fields. However, despite these advancements, women still comprise only 29% of the STEM workforce. In engineering, the disparity is even more pronounced, with…