Be MAGICAL

Today on March 8th,? we celebrate two important occasions across the globe: Holi, the festival of colors, and International Women’s day, where we recognize and honor the achievements and contributions of women throughout history, who helped shape our lives.? While both these events may seem unrelated at first glance , they share a common thread: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Empowerment.

Holi, “The Festival of Colors” or “The Festival of Spring,” a joyous occasion which is observed on a full moon day where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate the festival by throwing colored powder, water and flowers. And we all know that no festival is complete without having lots of sweets and delicacies!!

International Women’s day, on the other hand, is a day for commemorating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a day that honors the women who have made significant contributions to society and reminds us of the ongoing struggles for gender equality and women's empowerment.? Both these occasions remind us to break down the barriers and embrace change? by making everyone feel included.?

To truly celebrate this day, I can leave you with one? mantra:? BE MAGICAL!! ?

Mentor: Take the time to mentor a young woman. We have a wealth of experience to share with our? younger generations. Reach out to a young woman in your community or workplace and offer to be her mentor. Your guidance and support can make a huge difference in her life. Recently I have been doing this with one of the women in her early careers and it has been a joy. It takes me down memory lane.

Amplify: Women's voices are often silenced or marginalized in male-dominated spaces. Leverage every platform to amplify the voices of other women by bringing them along. Share their ideas, give them credit for their work, and encourage others to listen to what they have to say.??

Giver: Support women-owned businesses and non-profit organizations that empower and uplift young girls and women around the world.

Inspire:? Bringing your authentic self is very? powerful and inspirational.? Celebrate the achievements of other women around you and let them know how much you value and appreciate them. Lead by example by being respectful and assertive in your conversations. A famous quote by Maya Angelou :”I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Connect: Networking is a powerful tool for advancing your career and building connections.? Attend events and join groups to network to stay abreast with the? industry trends and continue to build connections, capacity, and confidence. Very fortunate to be a part of SheTO a powerhouse of Women Engineering Leaders.

Advocate: Speak up and advocate for policies and practices that create inclusive and diverse environments.

Lift : As important as it is to practice self-care, it is equally important to elevate women around you? who have made a difference in your life. Practice The Shine Theory: “I don't shine if you don't shine.”??

?As we celebrate International Women's Day,? let us ask ourselves - are we doing enough to make this world a better place? ??While we reflect and celebrate the? successes of amazing women out there,? it's also a time for Action and Advocacy . Let us find our own ways to give voice and power to others who are still searching for theirs. Let us BE MAGICAL and create a more inclusive, diverse, and empowered world for all.