As women, we manage numerous roles, such as being mothers, partners, leaders, colleagues, friends, romantic partners, and educators. It’s tough to balance these varied responsibilities, but the benefits greatly outweigh the effort put in. As we observe the International Day of Women & Girls in Science, I took the opportunity to contemplate the core of these roles and the empowerment that helps me fulfill them. In addition to the backing of my dynamic family, technology has become an essential ally.
In my life, I have been lucky enough to have traveled. However, it is in large part thanks to digital tools that I have had the chance to meet and collaborate with a diverse community of people; including DSF’s very own global dream team. This reinforces the fact that digital inclusion is no longer a luxury, but a global imperative for individual empowerment. Allowing people to reach across physical distance, thanks to digital literacy, and have access to the efficient and effective tools, to grow and move forward, should be the norm, not the exception.
In our tech-centric era, lagging behind in the digital divide means allowing for substantial disadvantages. Particularly for women face additional barriers limiting their access to digital resources. Nonetheless, the internet can serve as a powerful platform for women to express thoughts, share stories, and advocate for gender equality; and for those of us who have the tools and skills necessary in order to do so, are able toreep the benefits. Digital literacy isn’t a mere choice; it must be seen as an essential requirement for all. Equipping individuals with digital “know-how” opens doors to diverse opportunities; from remote work, entrepreneurship, fostering financial independence, family support, and the ability to better contribute to their community.
Moreover, the internet has democratized education for women, and for all, offering unprecedented access to knowledge and resources. Remote classes and e-learning platforms empower women to acquire new skills, pursue higher education, and broaden their horizons. These grant us the ability to navigate our numerous roles and responsibilities, yet continue to pursue the many paths that life has to offer. Digital empowerment extends into social and political spheres as well, transforming activism and advocacy. Today, more and more women mobilize, organize, and influence change through internet campaigns and social media movements; becoming change agents and prompting lasting social impact.
Digital inclusion transcends mere issues of access; it is about cultivating an inclusive and equitable society. Bridging the digital gap provides everybody with the resources they need for personal growth and societal contributions. As we strive for an equitable, sustainable future, let’s ensure that every woman and girl possesses the tools to achieve, grow, and make a difference.
After all, aren’t we all our mother’s children, desiring the future she would have wanted for us?