Happy International Women's Day!

I am usually not the one to celebrate International Women's Day (IWD), not because I didn’t value this day but rather, I never understood why we should only be celebrated one day — and this is true for every celebration. I am a woman every single day of my life, and I am Black African every single day of my life, and I am a migrant or foreigner every single day of my life. This year, I understand better the power of recognition and achievements, and wanted to pause, reflect, and use this wonderful platform.

International Women's Day holds a unique significance for me as a Black Muslim woman and migrant from West Africa, currently living in Europe. With a deep understanding of cross-cultural dynamics, I have gained valuable insights as a seasoned Internal Audit professional, working in financial institutions for over two decades and recently serving as a Board Member in a Housing Association. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that women face in their professional journeys and beyond.

From the bustling markets of Ouadada[1], Dantokpa[2], Adawlato[3], Adjame[4], Balogun[5], Mbane[6] to the vibrant trading hubs of Chennai[7], Chatuchak[8], Pondicherry[9], Madurai[10], and even the breathtaking fields perched at 3000m heights in the Andes in Toro[11], I have encountered the unwavering courage, strength, and determination of women who strive to create a better future for their families and children. From the sophisticated avenues of Bangalore[12], Mexico City[13], Barcelona[14], San Francisco[15] and Champs Elysees[16], to the towering skyscrapers of La Defense[17], Maslak[18], The City[19], Canary Wharf[20], Montreal[21], and New York[22], I have witnessed the resilience and tenacity of women in diverse settings.

From the heartfelt prayers at the Grand Mosque of Abidjan[23] and Paris[24], the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, and the serene Temples of Rameswaram[25] and Bali[26], to the majestic Basilica of Yamoussoukro[27], the Sacre Coeur Church[28], Nuestra Se?ora de la Asunción Cathedral[29], and even the Vatican, I have been inspired by the unwavering faith and determination of women to create a better future for themselves and their communities. To my mother, I say you can rest as I carry on with the prayers.

On this day, I celebrate the resilience, strength, and achievements of women from all walks of life. I recognize the barriers that women, particularly those from marginalized communities, encounter in their pursuit of success and equality. As a Black Muslim woman and migrant —not so young anymore, but I am still holding on to the title for the purpose of this article—I am a roundtable of intersectionality and have faced my own set of obstacles. I have also experienced the power of determination and the support of a strong community. I am grateful for my sisters, late grandmothers, mother, Solaris sisters around the world, role model Auntie Yetunde, accountability buddy Mittie, all the women-led microfinance initiatives in Benin Republic, the community women at AEDES in Cotahuasi, Peru, my coaches, and for my past, present, and future colleagues, bosses, and friends. I cannot forget all my allies, including my sponsor, David (I know you have my back!), my mentor Dariusz, my coach Massimo, Ralph, all the wonderful souls in the Solaris Academy, Inclusion Manager Allan, and so many more.

International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead. It is an opportunity to amplify the voices of women, especially those who are often overlooked or unheard. It is a call to action to address the systemic inequalities that persist and to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

I am committed to using my platform and experiences to uplift and empower other girls and women. I stand still and strive to be a role model, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. I advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities in all aspects of life, whether it be in the workplace or within the community. This Year, I am volunteering for the UN Women UK as a CSW68 delegate[30] to help make that happen and my thoughts go to the displaced girls and women, victims of senseless wars and human self-inflicted climate change around the world.

On this International Women's Day, I stand in solidarity with women around the world, celebrating our achievements, acknowledging our struggles, and working towards a future where every woman, regardless of her background, can thrive and fulfil her potential. Together, we can create a world that values and uplifts the voices and contributions of all girls and women.

Happy International Women's Day! Feel free to celebrate it every day.

Kassira Y.

This represents my thoughts and experiences and was assisted by AI for proofreading.

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[1] Porto Novo, Benin

[2] Cotonou, Benin

[3] Lomé, Togo

[4] Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire

[5] Lagos, Nigeria

[6] Swaziland

[7] India

[8] Bangkok, Tha?land

[9] India

[10] India

[11] Cotahuasi Canyon, Peru

[12] India

[13] Mexico

[14] Spain

[15] The United States

[16] Paris, France

[17] Paris, France

[18] Istanbul, Turkey

[19] London, United Kingdom

[20] London, United Kingdom

[21] Canada

[22] The United States

[23] Abidjan, Cotonou

[24] Paris, France

[25] India

[26] Indonesia

[27] Cote d'Ivoire

[28] Paris, France

[29] Santiago de Cuba, Cuba

[30] Delegates are joining the UN Women UK to make change and are not representative or spokepeople for UN Women UK.