By Dr Grace Pinto
Managing director
Ryan International Group of Institutions

Mar 8: March 8 draws the attention of the whole world on the International Women’s Day - a celebration of Womanhood. On this day, we celebrate the very essence of women and their commendable contribution towards society. It is the day to rejoice with women achievers for their accomplishments in diverse fields across the globe. The focus is on propagating unity and equality to create a gender equal world where women continue to face atrocities and discrimination around the world.

In spite of facing tremendous amount of pressure and hurdles on the pathway, women have broken the glass ceiling and emerged victorious. It is fascinating to note that women entrepreneurs all over are starting businesses at unprecedented rates. Women's wing of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) that encourages and facilitates women to showcase their talents, skills, experiences and energies across sectors, itself represents over 6,800 women entrepreneurs and professionals. We see a positive trend not only in entrepreneurship but also in almost all spheres of life where women are making a mark. However, there is still a huge scope for women empowerment and their upliftment.

Eleanor Roosvelt had beautifully said about the tremendous potential that a woman possesses, "A woman is like a tea bag - you can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water." Indeed, women are capable of achieving great things in life because they are blessed with unique traits such as intuition, courage, persistence and listening skills. Women are constantly fulfilling multiple roles and have incredible multi-tasking and networking abilities. They can connect more easily with people and tend to be more empathetic. With these gifts at hand and education that has opened up several new avenues for them, women can definitely make a positive impact on the socio-economic atmosphere in the society. Woman can bring about a change not only in her family but also in her community and society at large.

Remember that to be born as a woman is a blessing. God has bestowed upon women strength and dignity, wisdom and knowledge to do great and mighty things. The true essence of womanhood and her positive influence impacts generations to come. In this context, Helen Keller had wonderfully said, "When we do the best we can, we never know what miracle is wrought in our life, or in the life of another." In order to realize her true self, I urge every woman firstly to shed off her low self-esteem and mediocrity and aspire for excellence with the gifts you are blessed with. You have all the potential with which you can be at the steer-wheel in every segment of our society and bring about a positive change.

This woman’s day, let us focus on women contribution in order to make the world a better place with endless benefits for everyone to cherish. Wish you all a very happy Women's Day!