International Women’s Day 2024 campaign theme is ‘Inspire Inclusion’
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.
African Development Magazine joins its voice to that of the entire UN family and the rest of the world by celebrating this International Women’s Day under the theme “Inspire Inclusion” and also examined women’s involvement in society, and the role of some organizations empowering women globally.
“For International Women’s Day 2024 and beyond, let’s Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. When women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. The IWD 2024 #InspireInclusion campaign aims to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women.” According to the United Nations.
In this report, ADM reaches out to some powerful women, leaders, activists with selfless contributions to the community, and some who use their respective platforms to advocate for important issues like diversity in girls’ education, empowerment, the emancipation of women, sexual exploitation, women on sexual and reproductive health, leadership, entrepreneurship, discrimination, child marriage, and other injustices.
Amb. Dr. Clarisse Mefotso Fall,
Empowering Women: The Role of African Hope Committee
Dr. Clarisse Mefotso Fall, as the founder and Executive Director of the African Hope Committee, has been a transformative leader in promoting inclusive development and empowerment within our society. With over twenty-five years of experience in public health education, Dr. Mefotso Fall has dedicated herself to addressing the pressing health and legal needs of African immigrants in New York City.
African Hope Committee, Inc joins the rest of the world to celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 with the theme, “Inspire Inclusion”, and how they have been involved in ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ which is aligned with the priority theme for the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW-68).
The Executive Director of African Hope Committee, Inc, Clarisse Mefotso Fall shares with African Development Magazine the importance of inclusion and diversity, empowerment for women across various nations.
In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, the importance of inclusion and diversity cannot be overstated. Inclusion encompasses the acceptance and respect of individuals from all backgrounds, ensuring that everyone feels valued and has equitable access to opportunities. Diversity, on the other hand, recognizes and celebrates the unique differences and perspectives that individuals bring to the table, enriching our communities and organizations.
Amidst this imperative for inclusivity and diversity, the African Hope Committee (AHC) has emerged as an empowerment for women across various nations. Since its inception in 2003, the AHC has dedicated itself to impacting communities by orchestrating high-level conferences, seminars, and meetings on critical issues affecting women’s lives. One of the remarkable achievements of the AHC is the establishment of a vast network comprising over 1000 women leaders, with prominent roles as presidents and vice-presidents in countries such as Cameroon, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Niger, France, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Canada, USA, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Guinea. This diverse network not only reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusivity but also underscores the richness that stems from embracing different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Through its initiatives, the AHC has been instrumental in nurturing the leadership potential of women. By providing platforms for women to engage in high-level social, economic, and political forums—including the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)—the AHC has empowered women to contribute meaningfully to decision-making processes on a global scale.
Moreover, the AHC’s efforts extend beyond mere representation, delving into the realm of capacity building and skill enhancement. By equipping women with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate complex socio-economic and political landscapes, the AHC ensures that women are not only present but also influential agents of change. In essence, the work of the African Hope Committee underscores the transformative power of inclusion and diversity. By championing the voices of women from diverse backgrounds and providing them with platforms for leadership and advocacy, the AHC exemplifies the principles of inclusivity and diversity in action. As we celebrate International Women’s Day and reflect on the progress made towards gender equality, let us recognize and support organizations like the African Hope Committee that are driving meaningful change and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse
Julie Dabaly Scott
African women play diverse and crucial roles in society
Julie Dabaly Scott is a leader, tourism expert, consultant, and founder and CEO at Bunson Travel – CWT Kenya (A leading travel company specializing in corporate travel and leisure). She shared with African Development Magazine the importance of African Women’s involvement in society and the role of travel and tourism organizations.
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on 8 March. It offers an opportunity to reflect on progress made, call for change, and celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities.
The 2024 Day will focus on the theme, ‘Count Her In Accelerating Gender Equality through Economic Empowerment’.
It is wonderful to be Celebrating International Women’s Day 2024.
We African women play diverse and crucial roles in society, and our involvement spans various sectors, including Travel and Tourism and would like to share our involvement and contributions.
African Women’s Involvement in Society:
Economic Contributions: African women are actively involved in economic activities, including agriculture, trade, and entrepreneurship. Many run small businesses, contributing significantly to their local economies.
Education and Healthcare: Women in Africa often play key roles in education and healthcare. They contribute as teachers, healthcare workers, and community health educators, promoting overall well-being.
Community Leadership: African women are community leaders, driving social change, advocating for women’s rights, and addressing issues such as gender-based violence and child marriage.
Political Participation: Women in Africa have been increasingly participating in politics, taking on roles as political leaders, lawmakers, and advocates for gender equality in policy-making.
Cultural Preservation: Women are central to preserving and promoting African culture, traditions, and heritage. They play vital roles in passing down cultural knowledge and ensuring its continuity.
On the same vein, Julie Dabaly Scott also
Our Role of Travel and Tourism Organizations Globally
Employment Opportunities: The global Travel and Tourism industry provides job opportunities for women in various roles and position. This includes positions in hospitality, travel agencies, airlines, and tourism management and much more.
Entrepreneurship: Women entrepreneurs in Africa are entering the tourism sector, establishing businesses such as guesthouses, tour and travel operators, and cultural experiences, contributing to the growth of sustainable tourism.
Cultural Exchange: Travel and Tourism promote cultural exchange, providing a platform for African women to showcase their cultural heritage and traditions. This fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of diversity.
Empowerment through Tourism: Tourism initiatives, when designed inclusively, can empower women by creating income-generating opportunities and enhancing their skills through training programs.
Community Development: Sustainable tourism practices can positively impact local communities. Women often play a crucial role in community development projects supported by tourism, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Advocacy for Gender Equality: Global tourism organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of gender equality. Efforts are being made to promote women’s leadership roles within the industry and address gender-based disparities.
In summary, we The African women are integral to the social fabric of their communities, and their involvement in Travel and Tourism contributes to economic development, cultural enrichment, and empowerment. Recognizing and promoting their roles in these sectors can lead to more inclusive and sustainable growth.
Windy Yang
As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th, women worldwide are awakening to their power. In workplaces and across economic and political realms, women are making significant strides. In Taiwan, with President Tsai Ing-wen leading the way, women have attained prominent positions. Many Taiwanese women are shining globally, exemplifying leadership qualities.
In our Skål International Club, several female world presidents have demonstrated leadership distinct from traditional male norms, showcasing the power of feminine empathy and charm. Here’s to wishing all women around the globe a happy International Women’s Day!
Spa Lady Windy Yang, Skål International Taipei PR Director, so-called “Onsen Queen”, a Taiwanese travel trend journalist passionately in love with “holy healing water”-hot spring
Agrobiz
Breaking Barriers for Women.”
Lady Tee Thompson is a leadership model for many young girls and women in leadership roles across the globe. As a successful leader, facilitator, CEO, business development consultant who has contributed positively and immensely to the advancement of women in leadership roles.
The founder and CEO of Agrobiz joined the world to celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 says: Breaking Barriers for Women.” And It’s a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women’s equality.
According to her, she said the profound and heart-wrenching is the journey we have embarked upon, and as we navigate through the intricacies of this struggle, let us reflect on a powerful truth encapsulated in the words of an old proverb: “If there are no women, there are no communities.” This statement is not just an observation; it is a call to action, a reminder that women are the lifeblood of societies, and their empowerment is the key to unlocking the full potential of our collective future.
Gendered Budgeting and Bold Impact: As we address the issue of breaking barriers, let us first turn our attention to the power of gendered budgeting. A study conducted last year revealed that countries embracing gender-responsive budgeting experienced a staggering 30% increase in economic productivity. This is not merely a statistical figure; it is a testament to the fact that when we invest in women, we invest in the prosperity of nations. Let us forge ahead, breaking the chains of financial inequality with the bold impact of gendered budgeting, ensuring that every dollar spent is a step towards a brighter future.
As we embark on this journey, let us heed the words of Maya Angelou: “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color.”
Technology and Innovation: Mentoring from PhDs to Pioneers: In the realm of technology and innovation, breaking barriers is not just a choice; it is a necessity for progress. Research has shown that diverse teams, including women with varied educational backgrounds, drive more innovation and creativity. As we strive for for equality in the tech world, let us be mentors to one another—from those starting their journey to those with double PhDs.
Let us embrace the wisdom of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, who said, “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” By fostering mentorship at every level, we break the barriers that limit imagination, ensuring that women’s voices resonate in every technological breakthrough.
Lilian Patrick
Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress
Lilian Patrick is a social activist, entrepreneur, lawyer, and leader who believes in collaborative efforts, including accessible education, supportive policies, and empowering mentorship programs for women. She is actively involved in initiatives that provide training, mentorship, and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, aiming to create a ripple effect of sustainable economic growth for women.
“At our enterprise, we champion women’s involvement in society through various initiatives promoting equality, empowerment, and inclusion. From leadership programs to mentorship opportunities, we strive to break barriers and create a more inclusive world where women’s voices are heard and their contributions are recognized globally. This Women’s Day, let’s continue to inspire inclusion and celebrate the invaluable role of women in shaping our societies.” Lilian said
