Saturday 8th March 2025: 09.04am

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I find myself reflecting on my journey as a South Asian woman in the arts and cultural sector. Throughout my career as a multihyphenate cultural entrepreneur, I have often felt the absence of support from other women. This realisation is not just confined to my professional life; it extends to my personal experiences as well.

It raises a poignant question: Can women truly support one another without being jealous? 🤔

In my experience, the answer is complex. While there have been moments of camaraderie and mutual encouragement, they have been few and far between. The competitive nature of our society often pits women against each other, fostering jealousy rather than solidarity. This is particularly evident in the professional realm, where the scarcity of opportunities can lead to a sense of rivalry.

For South Asian women, this dynamic can be even more pronounced. Cultural expectations and societal norms often place additional pressures on us, making it challenging to find genuine support among peers. The intersection of gender and cultural identity adds layers of complexity to our interactions, sometimes leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.

However, it is important to acknowledge that this is not a universal truth. There are many women who have defied these norms and have been pillars of support for their peers. These women inspire hope and demonstrate that it is possible to build a community of mutual respect and encouragement. 🌟

The premise of International Women’s Day is women supporting women. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of women and to advocate for gender equality. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, calls for us to speed up our efforts towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. 🚀💃

On this International Women’s Day, I urge us all to reflect on our own behaviours and attitudes. Let us strive to be the change we wish to see, fostering an environment where women can uplift and support one another without the shadow of jealousy. Together, we can create a future where solidarity and sisterhood are the norm, not the exception. 💪👭

Let’s #AccelerateAction towards a world where women truly support one another! 🌍✨’m excited to see where it will take me next. What I do know is that I’ll continue to explore 🌍, create 🎨, and uplift 🌟, because that’s what makes my work truly fulfilling.

Lots of love,