March 8th is International Women’s Day, and this year the theme is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”. The theme recognizes the pivotal role and contribution  women play around the world, specifically the efforts and role women have on climate change mitigation, response, and adaptation as a move for a more sustainable future. 

The climate crisis and gender equality remain as one of the greater challenges of the 21st century. While many women in society have made great advancements those who are among the most vulnerable and marginalized still experience challenges. It is said that women are the more vulnerable sector  compared to their male counterparts, and in fact  comprise a majority of the world’s poor with more dependencies on natural resources which are affected by climate change. 

But despite these, women and young girls have proven to be effective and powerful leaders and change-makers for climate change, mitigation, and adaptation. Be it championing climate change or breaking barriers in their own respective careers, women and young girls alike have  resiliency built in like no other and for the month of March, we at SampleOK celebrate the  courage and grace that it entails to be a woman. 

There are many ways to empower women and also there are ways to help the women in your life reach new heights. See below for some ways you can help:

1. Empowered people, empower others – Encourage the people around you. Always remember there is plenty of room for the sun to shine on all of us and helping boost another’s self-esteem by empowering them too won’t dim your light.
2. Open communication lines – people feel secure when they can comfortably express themselves and their ideas. Opening communication shows you are trustworthy and also helps the other person feel safe and confident which in turn helps them reach their goals faster knowing they have you as a confidant.
3. Lead by example – This is one of the most important and easiest ways you can empower others. Young women are deeply influenced by their role models, so make sure you are a good one so you can inspire the younger generation and create future leaders that are empowered even from a young age.
4. Advocate for women – Be it in your workplace or community, go the extra mile to empower women. Help break the glass ceilings by staunchly advocating for them. This may seem like a seemingly small gesture but it truly goes a long way.
5. Support women-led businesses – Check your local community for women-led businesses. Consider supporting by patronizing their products and services.