Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Throughout history, we’ve witnessed an awe-inspiring array of women who have made indelible marks in fields as diverse as science, mathematics, aviation, literature, fitness, entertainment, and more – all while fearlessly fighting for women’s rights, social justice, and racial equality, and in turn, shattering the glass ceiling.

These women have not only been brilliant and influential but have also served as shining examples for countless others to follow. Recognizing the trailblazing efforts of these women, every year BBC releases a list of “The 100 Most Influential Women.” And Indian women are consistently making their mark on the list, with four Indian women being included in the most recent iteration of the list, which was released in December 2022. Actor-producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas, aeronautical engineer Sirisha Bandla, Booker-winning author Geetanjali Shree and social worker Sneha Jawale are the four Indians on the BBC’s ‘100 Women’ list of influential figures of this year. Up until now, 43 Indian women have made it to the list. Over the past few years, some notable global names on the list until now include cricketer Mithali Raj, music phenomenon Billie Eilish, Tunisian tennis star Ons Jabeur, educational activist Malala Yousufzai, and Mehroonisa Siddiqui.

These trailblazing women serve as inspirations for young girls and women everywhere. Their determination, hard work, passion, and courage in breaking free from societal barriers are qualities that inspire others to strive for excellence in achieving their own goals. By serving as role models, these women are helping to create a more equal and just world where all people, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.

We, at Brainayan, have stepped up to do our bit through the “The Women Ally” program. Understanding the importance and need for women to create an identity for themselves, we have developed a 5-module program. The Women Ally will not only help women tackle self-defeating behaviors, but also feel empowered to speak out about the unfair treatment and find ways to make progress. Through this program, you will be able to create space for women to bring their femininity to any work that they do and spread their wings to reach their zenith in leadership.

Additionally, a remarkable number of Afghani women are also on the list every year. Like a cherry on the cake, UNESCO has taken a step ahead and dedicated the International Day of Education (24 January) to Afghani girls and women who are in a constant tiff for their basic human right to education.

Kudos to all women who are pushing the boundaries every day. Let’s commit to being a woman ally in acts small and big, and support gender equity.