Girl to Woman: The Journey of Empowerment

Life is a series of stages, each filled with its own set of obstacles and challenges. For some, these hurdles become stepping stones to success, while others accept their fate and move on. Discrimination is a common thread in many women's lives. If you've never experienced it, consider yourself lucky. Often, discrimination begins at home, influenced by a patriarchal family system. Although times are changing, the transformation is not yet complete.

During my work with NGOs, I witnessed many young girls abandon their dreams of higher education and careers in other cities because their parents were against it. Some found solace in the idea of marriage, believing it to be an easier path than fighting for their aspirations. I fought alongside these girls, encouraging them not to give up on their dreams of achieving greatness.

Growing up, I saw parents treat their sons and daughters differently. While change is on the horizon, a significant portion of the population in rural areas still struggles with outdated mindsets. As a psychologist, I felt a duty to serve these rural communities. Though the financial rewards are not immense, the sense of achievement I feel when a girl decides to pursue further education or dreams big is priceless.

Our rural learners need more training centers, career counseling opportunities, and mental health sessions. If you can light one candle, that candle has the power to light many more. You never know what difference you are making in someone's life and how that person can impact others.