Forward to Equity
Imagine a future where every woman and girl have the freedom to lead, thrive, and break barriers. This vision is not just an ideal—it’s an urgent call to action. This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” makes one thing clear: we cannot afford to wait.
Despite progress, too many women and girls still face obstacles like unequal pay, limited access to education, and harmful stereotypes. Recent data shows that women in Australia earn only 78 cents for every dollar earned by men—and they face slower promotion rates. The clock is ticking, and if we want equity, we must act now.
To truly accelerate action, we need more than words—we need bold, practical steps to empower women and girls. The future can’t wait—and neither should we.
Photo by Campaign Asia
Shatter the Glass Ceiling (Because Cracks Aren’t Enough)
Shattering the glass ceiling isn’t just a phrase—it’s a commitment to making women in leadership the norm, not the exception. Yet less than 10% of Fortune 500 CEOs are women, proving that gender inequality is still a harsh reality.
If we want to accelerate action, we must tear down these barriers once and for all. A cracked ceiling isn’t freedom—it’s a reminder that the work isn’t done.
How to Shatter the Glass Ceiling:
Champion Pay Transparency: Support equal pay for equal work—because no woman should earn less due to her gender.
Mentor & Sponsor Women: Open doors by mentoring and sponsoring women—especially those from marginalised backgrounds.
Advocate for Gender Quotas: Push for gender quotas on boards and leadership teams to ensure fair representation.
A Story of Breaking Barriers:
Consider Sheelagh Whittaker, one of the first female CEOs in the technology sector. She not only shattered glass ceilings—she paved the way for other women to rise. Her story is a reminder that when one woman breaks through, she opens the door for many others.
Photo by Smile Foundation
Invest in Girls’ Education: Empower Her, Empower Us All
Education is power—yet 130 million girls worldwide are denied the right to learn. This injustice robs them of opportunities and keeps entire communities in the grip of poverty.
If we want to accelerate action, we must invest in girls’ education now. When a girl learns, she lifts herself and her entire community.
How to Accelerate Education Equity:
Support STEM Programmes: Encourage girls to pursue STEM fields—the future depends on diverse innovators.
Fund Scholarships: Invest in scholarships for girls from underprivileged communities.
Advocate for Policy Change: Campaign for policies that make girls’ education a global priority.
A Kenyan Proverb says, “A child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” If we fail to invest in girls’ education, we all pay the price.
Close the Health Gap: Her Body, Her Rights
Health is a basic right—but not all women have equal access. Every day, 800 women die from preventable pregnancy and childbirth complications. In low-income regions, these numbers are even worse.
Accelerating action means demanding better healthcare for every woman—because her body is her right.
How to Advance Health Equity:
Advocate for Policy Reform: Support laws that protect reproductive rights and ensure equitable healthcare.
Promote Menstrual Equity: Push for free period products—because menstruation is a human right, not a luxury.
Support Accessible Healthcare: Fund programmes that provide affordable, comprehensive medical services.
When we invest in women’s health, we invest in a healthier, fairer world for everyone.
Be a Good Co-conspirator
Being an ally is good—but it’s not enough. To accelerate action, we must become co-conspirators—people who actively challenge and dismantle inequitable systems.
Allies stand by—co-conspirators stand up. Which will you be?
How to Be a Co-Conspirator:
Challenge Discrimination: Speak up against gender bias in every sphere—workplaces, schools, and beyond.
Invest in Women: Support women-owned businesses and fund gender equity initiatives.
Engage in Difficult Conversations: Start bold, uncomfortable discussions about gender inequality—especially with men.
The truth is simple: Silence protects inequality. Your voice can break it.
5. Take Bold Action for Equity—The Time Is Now
Equity doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through bold, consistent action. Waiting for someone else to step up isn’t an option. The time is now.
How to Take Bold Action Today:
Support Women-Led Initiatives: Invest in women-led projects and organisations.
Push for Equal Pay: Demand pay transparency and advocate for equity policies.
Mentor and Sponsor: Help women—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—rise in their careers.
An African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Gender equity is a collective journey—and we must walk it together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does “shattering the glass ceiling” mean?
It means breaking down barriers that prevent women from reaching leadership positions and ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed.
2. Why is girls’ education so important?
Educating girls reduces poverty, improves public health, and fosters social and economic development globally.
3. How can I support menstrual equity?
You can donate to organisations providing free period products, advocate for policy changes, and educate others about menstrual health.
4. What’s the difference between being an ally and a co-conspirator?
An ally supports from the sidelines. A co-conspirator takes direct, continuous action to challenge and dismantle inequalities.
5. How can I take immediate action for gender equity?
Speak up when you witness discrimination.
Support women-led businesses.
Advocate for fair policies.
Mentor women and open doors for their success.
Forward to Equity: The Future Can’t Wait
The fight for gender equity is urgent—and it starts with us. Every action, no matter how small, moves us closer to a world where women and girls can lead, thrive, and succeed.
This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” is not a suggestion—it’s a demand. The future won’t wait, and neither should we.
What will you do today to make a difference?
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Article written and edited by Patience Ubi
Featured Graphic Designed by Seye Somefun
2 Responses
What I will do to make a difference is to understand that I am first a woman before being any other thing.
Yes, accepting who you are, as a woman, is the first step to making a difference and acceleration a positive action. Thank you for the comment, Rhoda!