In few days’ time we will be celebrating the #IWD (International Women’s Day). This has led me thinking about women in general, our role in the society and the barriers we have broken.
For me #BreakingBarriers is a personal journey of breaking limitations set by others and the society we belong to…
Being born a woman in an African society, to an Igbo family – has its cultural limitations. My family was quite special because, I was the 1st child, out of 4 girls.
I remember vividly my father demanding that my mother should give him a child and every time I heard him speak, a part of me died in confusion; I would look at the mirror – asking this question?
If I’m not a child, what am I?
Years have gone by; my mother has a son now, yet the scar rears its head anytime I need to accomplish something big.
Being a leader and in the place of authority, I’m faced daily with the cultural challenge of what a woman should do or shouldn’t do; then I remember that each victory/advancement I make is not mine alone but OURS:- as women, daughters and for the good of our community. This gives me the courage to lift my head high, with my eyes focused on the path in front of me.
It’s not been easy but I have learnt to tell myself everyday – “AM A WOMAN AND MY VOICE COUNTS.”
Womanhood presents to us one of the most demanding and dynamic platforms.
In Africa this terrain becomes even more difficult to navigate because of our cultural and male dominated orientation. Today, I celebrate my wife, my mother and every woman who has stood their grounds and played their roles efficiently in their homes, work and society. You are our true champions.
As men, our role here is to stand by our wives consistently; inspiring, motivating and encouraging them to be the best they can..
Remember always that your little daughter today is a WOMAN tomorrow.
So today, few days to #IWD (International Women’s Day), I’m giving a shout out to all women who have broken barriers in their field of work, in their marriages and in the society.
To my mum: A/P Nkem Nzeribe – you broke all barriers and built an empire. I say it again, I have a voice because of you.
