My Dad Raised a Queen!

Today I share a reflection of my journey, shaped by the values and lessons my father, a third generation army personnel, instilled in me from a young age. He always taught me that being a leader is not just about achieving personal success, but about lifting others up, especially other women, to rise with me. We are a family of three sisters and never once we were made to feel that we were any less. Infact, comparasions were never drawn!

Growing up, my dad emphasized the importance of strength, independence, interdependence and self-respect. He made sure I knew that true leadership is rooted in character and the ability to inspire and elevate those around me. He didn’t just teach me how to navigate a world where women are often judged by different standards; he showed me that my worth is not defined by those standards. My capabilities aren’t dependent on whether men (or women) respect me or not. Instead, he helped me see that my self-respect and confidence in my own abilities are what truly matter.

My father’s lessons have guided me to forge my own path, one where I don’t seek validation from others. I’ve learned that respect is valuable, but it’s not a prerequisite for proving my worth. This understanding has empowered me to move through life with a clear sense of purpose and confidence in what I can achieve.

But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized that this confidence and self-respect are things that need to be shared. I believe that true leadership means creating opportunities for other women to succeed alongside me. It’s not about competition; it’s about building a strong, supportive network where we lift each other up. In a world where women are often pitted against each other or measured against male standards, I know how important it is to foster a culture of support and collaboration among women.

My dad also taught me the importance of empathy and understanding. He showed me that being a leader means listening to others, understanding their struggles, and offering support. This has shaped how I approach leadership—I strive to be inclusive and supportive, recognizing the unique challenges women face. I know that when we support each other, we can overcome these challenges together.

This isn’t just my story—it’s a testament to the values my father passed on to me. He taught me to lead with purpose, to empower others, and to understand that when we uplift each other, we can achieve greatness together.

Leadership means inspiring collective action, demanding accountability, and advocating for systemic change. It’s about fostering a culture where respect and equality are fundamental. With the recent outcry (yet again) for justice for women, I know in my heart that the only thing that should evolve and sustain is girls and women realising their self-worth. We are Queens, raised by our fathers! No one can take that away from us!