To mark International Women’s Day, World Vision India, a humanitarian organisation, honoured women in Bengaluru, who are role models in their communities. Krishnappba, Housing Minister, Vijayanagar constituency, was the chief guest at the event.
Women from the slums of MCT colony, Girinagar, Arundhatinagar and Chamundinagar participated in the event. Four women who had made a remarkable achievement in their fields were honoured. Among them was Ganga Ravikumar, the first woman Ola driver from Girinagar. Speaking at the event, Ganga said, “Overcoming barriers of gender and poverty was not easy. It is important to change the mindsets in the communities about women. We hope our stories of struggle are an inspiration to many women.”
The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “Time is now: rural and urban activists transforming women’s lives”. Over the years, women have faced exploitation, harassment, discrimination and lack of equal opportunities. Many of their rights have been secured after sustained efforts to overcome these odds. Today, women have made significant contributions in all spheres of life. Yet, they are still under-represented in the public sphere and many of them continue to suffer discrimination and violence. Equal access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities and representation in political and economic decision-making processes will ensure transformation in the lives of women.
Speaking at the event, Krishnappa, said, “There are many women achievers who remain unnoticed and is important that we identify and honour them. Empowered women help in bringing social change. It is important that we help them to develop their skills and talents”.
World Vision India (WVI) believes that empowering and educating women is an essential part of social change. Mathai Kutty, Senior Manager-World Vision India said, “We believe that integrating gender into our programs transforms individuals, systems and structures towards gender justice for a more equitable world which promotes dignity and wellbeing of every man, woman and child. Through our initiatives, we seek to empower and equip girls and women to become active participants in the development of their communities.”
World Vision is one of the world’s leading child focused humanitarian organisations. With nearly 65 years of experience in India, World Vision India works in 185 districts impacting 26 lakh children and their families in over 6,252 communities spread across 25 states of India.
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