Celebrating International Women's Day

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This morning, I made a deliberate choice to take time off and visit Sareena's classroom. Armed with stories of remarkable women who dared to defy norms and challenge the status quo, I had a goal to educate and inspire young minds.?

First, I introduced the class to Mary Edwards Walker, a trailblazer in her own right. Driven by her passion for medicine and a determination to serve, Walker became the first female surgeon in the United States Army during the Civil War. Her bravery and commitment to her calling continue to inspire generations.?

Next, I shared the tale of Emma Grandma Gatewood, who at the age of 67, hiked the entire Appalachian Trail alone. Her extraordinary feat challenged stereotypes about age and gender, proving that determination knows no bounds.?

But the stories didn't end there. I spoke about the lives of courageous world-changers like Corrie ten Boom and Florence Nightingale, whose contributions to society even resonate today. Their courage and compassion serve as rays of hope in a world often with a lot of challenges.?

Why did I choose to spend this precious morning sharing these stories with Sareena's class? Because today is not just any day—it's International Women’s Day. A moment to celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide. As I reflect on this day, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to invest in my daughter, Sareena's, future.?And in 2024, the theme "Invest in women: Accelerate progress" couldn't be more fitting.?

Statistics are not good - an additional $360 billion annually is required to achieve gender equality. We are told it is going to take over 200 years to achieve global gender equity. But we need it - because closing gender gaps in employment could boost GDP per capita by 20 percent while investing in care services could create nearly 300 million jobs by 2035. These numbers show the transformative power of investing in women.?

As I look into Sareena's eyes - and all the other 10-year-olds, I see the potential for a brighter, more equitable future. By prioritizing gender-responsive financing, increasing public spending on essential services, and recognizing the contribution of women to our economies, we can pave the way for a world where everyone can thrive.?

So, I stand committed to investing in Sareena and all the young girls like her, knowing that each investment made today is a step towards a tomorrow filled with opportunity and empowerment.?