Empowering women requires a transformation of society in such a way that it provides equal opportunities for growth to both genders. This includes social, economic and political empowerment.
It also means eliminating negative stereotypes about women and supporting other women to rise up out of poverty. Changing the narrative about woman power starts with us, so let’s get to it!
Know Your Worth
Women can be a powerful force in the world. When they’re empowered, they take action to ensure gender equality in the workplace and beyond. They stand up for their rights and are unapologetic about their goals and dreams.
Empowered women are also a source of inspiration for other professional women. They are a role model to follow, whether they’re famous researchers like Rosalind Franklin and Marie Curie or political defenders such as Emmeline Pankhurst and Clara Campoamor.
One of the most important things that can empower women is knowing their worth. It’s crucial to remember that you are a one-of-a-kind masterpiece who is worthy of everything your heart desires. Read through these inspiring know your worth quotes to remind yourself of this truth. This will help you avoid undervaluing yourself in the workplace or at home.
Be a Mentor
If you’re in a position to help other women, do it. Uplifting other women in your field can make an incredible difference to them as they work to break through the glass ceiling. This could mean offering them a role on your leadership team, giving them a speaking opportunity or even letting them step into the spotlight in a way that would not have been possible otherwise.
It could also mean sharing the path that led you to your success or putting them in contact with someone who can give them career advice. Set regular follow-up times, whether that’s a phone call, meeting for coffee or sending a letter of appreciation. Be sure to keep in touch with your mentors and let them know how much you appreciate their advice.
Support Others
Women empower other women by putting their own needs aside and offering encouragement. For example, if your friend is passionate about her own passion, you can support her by cheering her on and making sure she knows how proud of her you are.
You can also support other women by giving them a voice. Whether this is in leadership teams, conference lineups, speaking roles, or media sourcing — ensure that female voices are included when possible.
You can also support women’s empowerment by donating to a cause that matters to you. You could support a local women’s shelter, volunteer to host an employment workshop, or support organizations like MEDA that work to integrate gender equality and women’s empowerment with innovation in private sector development.
Invest in Women-Owned Businesses
Women entrepreneurs have become a force to be reckoned with in the business world. However, they still face obstacles when it comes to funding. For example, venture funds are only giving women-owned businesses a fraction of the amount they give to men.
It’s important to support female-owned businesses, whether you are a woman who wants to make more money, or you’re simply interested in social impact investing. You can start by checking out some of the best investment apps and brokerage accounts that prioritize women-owned companies.
At Fundbox, we provide fast and easy working capital for small businesses. Our goal is to help people like you take risks in their own business — and do it with confidence! *This is not tax, legal or accounting advice. Please consult with your own advisors for any questions you may have.
Take Risks
A key component to empowerment is knowing your own strengths and taking risks. Empowered women aren’t afraid of challenges or change, and they’re always looking for ways to grow. They know that every risk brings with it a chance for success and growth, even if it doesn’t turn out the way you planned.
This means that she might apply for a job that seems out of reach or ask for a raise that’s long overdue. These actions build confidence, which in turn, empowers her even more.
Businesses can support women’s empowerment by signing the WEPs and working to meet the guiding frameworks. This includes sex-disaggregated data, gender-responsive procurement practices, and more. Learn more here.