Celebrating Women's Resilience: A Tribute to my Sister Irene

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, I would like to celebrate the remarkable resilience of women from every corner of the world, who have triumphed over adversity, and whose life stories are yet to be told and learned from.

Today, I want to shine a light on a woman who has not only inspired me but has also taught me invaluable lessons in strength and perseverance – my sister, Irene.

Born with mental and motor disabilities, Irene faced numerous challenges and prejudices throughout her life. Despite the bullying and discrimination she encountered, she approached life with unwavering positivity, a serene demeanor, and an unparalleled strength of character that continues to astound me.

When everyone said she would not be able to learn how to read and write, and least complete basic primary and secondary school education, she worked 10 times harder than the average individual, using the best of her capabilities to find new ways into the learning process that suited her better. She not only completed secondary school - she became the assistant editor of the local school news journal, writing curated articles from community interviews-.

Facing numerous job rejections deeming her unsuitable, she embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, delving into art studies and unveiling a latent talent for painting and craft design.

Despite enduring ridicule and exclusion from social circles, she cultivated enduring friendships with marginalized individuals, offering solace and camaraderie to those similarly ostracized. Despite a litany of setbacks, for every ten doors that closed, she unfailingly unearthed new opportunities better aligned with her life's purpose. Always with a smile, always with an emphasis on the positive outlook.

She has been a guiding light in my own journey. Her ability to navigate life’s obstacles with grace and determination has taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, empathy, and kindness. In many ways, she has redefined the concept of 'disability' for me, showcasing abilities and virtues that surpass those of the so-called 'normal' individuals.

A colleague of mine recently asked me to contribute to an internal Women’s Day post by writing a short statement on a woman who has inspired me. After carefully reflecting on this, I couldn’t think of anyone else. I felt the story had to be told as, the truth is, some of the best lessons I learned in life did not come from a job, my career or university degrees, they came from Irene.

In honoring women like my sister, we not only celebrate their individual triumphs but also acknowledge the collective strength of women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Their stories? serve as a powerful reminder of the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead in empowering all women, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive world for all.

Happy International Women’s Day!