https://celebratewomen.world/selection2 daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174398055-CW4HL6E9WFG22S2PGP7S/Grace+Zeng.jpg selection2 “Style empowers me. Some say it’s bad optics to care about how you look, but I don’t see eye to eye with that point of view. It’s truly an eye-opening experience to try out new looks and see oneself through a different lens. In the blink of an eye, I can be any version of me that I envision in my mind’s eye.” — Grace Zeng, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174398055-CW4HL6E9WFG22S2PGP7S/Grace+Zeng.jpg selection2 “Style empowers me. Some say it’s bad optics to care about how you look, but I don’t see eye to eye with that point of view. It’s truly an eye-opening experience to try out new looks and see oneself through a different lens. In the blink of an eye, I can be any version of me that I envision in my mind’s eye.” — Grace Zeng, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175649302-S6GPBJF8VGKJ4K2KO196/mmexport1583593699529.jpg selection2 “You may be wondering why there's a photo of a hand-painted Baby Yoda carrying a tablet. You see, this actually encompasses what empowers me as a woman. Confused? Read on. Hi. My name is Bridgette, and I have been diagnosed as clinically depressed among other things. Were it not for the strong support of my family and loved ones, I would not be here today. The tablets with Baby Yoda are my anti-depressants. I take them because my family empowers me and gives me the will to live. Having the right professional and medical help as well as emotional support for my mental health issues has done wonders for my life and for my passion in art (in fact, I'm the one who hand-painted this miniature sculpture of Baby Yoda!) There are still some dark days in my life but as long as I have family by my side, I gain the courage to fight every single day.” — Bridgette, Manila, The Philippines, 2020, by Bridgette https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174363168-XQE43ZKFTPAKT4NYQC15/4.+Berthilde.jpg selection2 “I am empowered by farming and business because they give me financial independence and the ability to care for my child without relying on others.” — Mujawamariya Bertilde, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175355568-8HSW0JSJ0XU45O6IEFIQ/Grace_Celebrate%2BWomen.jpg selection2 "In 2013, I was drugged and raped during the modeling job. My pornographic photographs were published online about 6 months later with my name and contact information. The rapist attempted to sex traffic me. I was ashamed and depressed about what had happened. I stopped dancing and doing everything I loved for the full year after the assault. I discovered the burlesque show on the first anniversary of my assault. I saw it as a sign for me to take what I've lost back. Burlesque empowers me to take back my body, my sexuality, and discover what I love about myself." — Grace, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702153828-CW71UO0Z2F5SMIUAC5GG/17+2017+nic+oIMG_5105+marcele.jpg selection2 “Making things empowers me, because it is the best tool I have to express my ideas, share my experiences, experiments and life style with others. Making things helps me to create statements about social responsibility, and it is the way I have to empower others to create and make their own thing.” — Marcela Godoy, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702002586-NGURWI5UDZJ85CSPQZP6/2021_London_Nabeeka.jpg selection2 “I have always been a Creative by nature. I thrive when making things; taking something from one form and turning it into something else. Part of this shines through in the way that I dress, as my love for art is often reflected in my outfits. As a Muslim woman, I have dealt with comments where people have commended me for my bright outfits because it strays from the ‘norm’ of how a Muslim woman should dress. I’m here to say that people should never dictate any woman’s choice of clothing or expression. There is no standard ‘Muslim style’. Black or pink or any other colour are fine. I’m bold, I’m bright, and I’m not changing for anyone but myself.” — Nabeela Zaman, London, Englan, 2021, by Nabeela Zaman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175518129-T6R6KBW5YO353VQ43RTR/Manasa+Sitaram.jpg selection2 “I am empowered by my ability to adapt. Both in terms of my body adaption to be a habitat for a new human being, but also in being able to adapt to life in every phase - no matter what gets thrown my way. In some ways I feel it’s built into our DNA as women, to rise to the occasion no matter the circumstance and environment, but this journey of evolving into motherhood has really made that clear for me - we can do and be anything we put our minds to, if we’re open to a bit of change.” — Manasa Sitaram, Singapore, 2025 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702089720-CTZFDL05S9QJWGMP3HPN/30+Image2.jpeg selection2 “My children empower me. Naningkamot jd ko sa pastillas para sa akong mga anak. Tungod sa pag-empower nila nako. Ang akong love sa akong mga anak gyud ang naka pa-empower kay tungod sa akong love sa ilaha, I did everything and will do everything in my power para nila.” “My children empower me. I keep working hard for the success of our Pastillas delicacy business for them because they empower me. I did everything and will do everything in my power because I love my children.” — Gwendolyn Baliog Hollanes, Cebu City, The Philippines, 2020, by Vincent Jayvee Caberte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702104935-634KO94QH3SYBS834X8Q/14+2017+mei+IMG_9622_Ashler+Ubele.jpg selection2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702007416-22A28Q1CJ248NMCG57QR/25+2020+maggie+Kelly.jpeg selection2 “I spent my childhood as my dad's helper building things and fixing things at our house in the mountains. Now that I live in the city in an apartment, my bike tools enable me to step away from the news, my social life, or whatever is going on, and just focus on fixing something tangible. I also rest easy knowing that in just about any emergency I could hop on my bike, pedal my heart out, and get away from it all.” — Kelly, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maggie Walsh https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702691634-UQX2RNW7UHEAXHTIM7B7/Celebrate+Women+-+Maya+Wang.jpg selection2 “Makeup empowers me. It's one part self-expression, another part creation. I'm aware that the makeup & beauty industry capitalizes on insecurities and promotes unrealistic beauty standards, as well as being a highly gendered industry. However, I've started exploring ways of creating my own version of beauty using makeup as a medium. Sometimes, I'll do themed makeup and post pictures of my creation as a way to bring awareness to or start a conversation about a topic I care about - which is what I'm doing at this very moment. Drawing on my face feels so ephemeral and intimate, and taking self-portraits of my creation is incredibly empowering. Makeup is the medium that lets me express myself, feel confident in my own skin, and experience the joy of creating.” — Maya Wang, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maya Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702012379-CORFDGTE23O0J49LF2GU/26+2020+maggie+Allison.jpeg selection2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174502499-JPH4ZE1OJ221XJM97QUP/Jeanie.jpg selection2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702255122-P0ZKLEQ8IAV9G5RBDEE8/Esther_IMG_1034+final.jpg selection2 “Through my religion, I realized my purpose in life and that’s to be used as a vessel to restore ladies affected by sexual sin especially abortion back to Jesus Christ, which really empowers me a great deal. Living each day knowing that there are ladies I need to reach out to daily and remind them that despite their past mistakes and failures God still loves, cares, and is willing and able to restore them back to Himself and to beautify their lives yes again.” — Esther, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175929528-QOGTP256BL6XGRU8R3ZH/Shanghai_StubbsJennifer.png selection2 “Recovering from my failures empowers me because they far outnumber my successes and I have learned from them.” — Jennifer Stubbs, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709701920044-103NWXF06SKM8WVMKMA5/7.+2022+Sro+Clara_IW_2022.jpg selection2 “What empowers me is being a woman scientist. Science has always been dominated by men but there are now many women working in science and we are all trying to help each other to make a better future. No competition but ambition! Ciò che mi dà forza è essere una scienziata. La scienza è sempre stata dominata dagli uomini, ma ora ci sono molte scienziate e stiamo tutte cercando di aiutarci a vicenda per creare un futuro migliore. Nessuna competizione ma ambizione!” — Clara, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://celebratewomen.world/celebrate-women daily 1.0 2024-03-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678289037021-B110H1IWKU3INCKHG1TW/19787446_10213595093976937_5593228141359540629_o.jpg CELEBRATE WOMEN https://celebratewomen.world/home daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551988520583-VYOI702NQDMHY61RRT2X/Taipei_Grandma.jpg Home “因為脊椎開刀用拐杖用了兩年. 兩年期間我很努力的用我自己的力量來走路. 現在終於可以不用靠拐杖走路.” “After my spinal surgery, I relied on a cane to walk. It’s been two years now, during which I diligently practiced using my own strength to walk. This empowers me because I am now cane free!” – 吳瑞春 Wu Rui Chun, Taipei, Taiwan, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983194217-OPTTC7I4FM4WBQM70O4M/Lan+Nguyen.jpg Home “When I was a girl, I dreamt of a happy family with a beloved husband and beautiful children. But life was hard and my marriage of more than twenty years came to an end. Taking care of two young daughters all by myself, I was physically and emotionally devastated. But it was all in the past. These days, my life is beautiful. As I am retired, I have time to do what I love: Traveling with my daughters, playing with our puppy and reading books. I am a family-oriented woman and always will be.” — Lan Nguyen, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2018, by Đặng Thảo Nguyên https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983543933-NTBF3WSGE9ZKRKG2BXJZ/IMG_9622_Ashler+Ubele.jpg Home “The women in my life empower me. Ever since I started my transition, I’ve struggled with my gender identity. The ladies that I am close with have helped me feel like the woman that I know I am, even when I am struggling with my own internalized transphobia.” — Ashler Uebele, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/e77f25db-e490-4dff-8109-5fefb00a0008/5.+Esther.JPG Home “The bible empowers me as it offers spiritual guidance to me, it emphasizes love, dignity, and respect. For my entire life, I've been able to rely on the bible to gain knowledge on different topics and also to gain guidance from it. By doing so I've been able to walk in confidence, strength, and purpose.” — Esther Naisoi, Narok County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/19bbd979-cee3-412f-b02e-acd076bececb/4.+Sarah.JPG Home “I am 25 years old and come from Kimironko. From 2022 to 2023, I worked as a domestic worker, but I was determined to change my life. I worked hard and saved money until I could pursue something new. Tired of domestic work, I learned to ride a motorcycle and was fortunate to acquire one of my own. Now, I earn a living as a motorcycle rider and dream of achieving even more, including one day driving big cars. What empowers me is knowing that I can achieve anything I set my heart on.” — Ishimwe Sarah, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174398055-CW4HL6E9WFG22S2PGP7S/Grace+Zeng.jpg Home “Style empowers me. Some say it’s bad optics to care about how you look, but I don’t see eye to eye with that point of view. It’s truly an eye-opening experience to try out new looks and see oneself through a different lens. In the blink of an eye, I can be any version of me that I envision in my mind’s eye.” — Grace Zeng, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175649302-S6GPBJF8VGKJ4K2KO196/mmexport1583593699529.jpg Home “You may be wondering why there's a photo of a hand-painted Baby Yoda carrying a tablet. You see, this actually encompasses what empowers me as a woman. Confused? Read on. Hi. My name is Bridgette, and I have been diagnosed as clinically depressed among other things. Were it not for the strong support of my family and loved ones, I would not be here today. The tablets with Baby Yoda are my anti-depressants. I take them because my family empowers me and gives me the will to live. Having the right professional and medical help as well as emotional support for my mental health issues has done wonders for my life and for my passion in art (in fact, I'm the one who hand-painted this miniature sculpture of Baby Yoda!) There are still some dark days in my life but as long as I have family by my side, I gain the courage to fight every single day.” — Bridgette, Manila, The Philippines, 2020, by Bridgette https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174363168-XQE43ZKFTPAKT4NYQC15/4.+Berthilde.jpg Home “I am empowered by farming and business because they give me financial independence and the ability to care for my child without relying on others.” — Mujawamariya Bertilde, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175355568-8HSW0JSJ0XU45O6IEFIQ/Grace_Celebrate%2BWomen.jpg Home "In 2013, I was drugged and raped during the modeling job. My pornographic photographs were published online about 6 months later with my name and contact information. The rapist attempted to sex traffic me. I was ashamed and depressed about what had happened. I stopped dancing and doing everything I loved for the full year after the assault. I discovered the burlesque show on the first anniversary of my assault. I saw it as a sign for me to take what I've lost back. Burlesque empowers me to take back my body, my sexuality, and discover what I love about myself." — Grace, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702153828-CW71UO0Z2F5SMIUAC5GG/17+2017+nic+oIMG_5105+marcele.jpg Home “Making things empowers me, because it is the best tool I have to express my ideas, share my experiences, experiments and life style with others. Making things helps me to create statements about social responsibility, and it is the way I have to empower others to create and make their own thing.” — Marcela Godoy, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702002586-NGURWI5UDZJ85CSPQZP6/2021_London_Nabeeka.jpg Home “I have always been a Creative by nature. I thrive when making things; taking something from one form and turning it into something else. Part of this shines through in the way that I dress, as my love for art is often reflected in my outfits. As a Muslim woman, I have dealt with comments where people have commended me for my bright outfits because it strays from the ‘norm’ of how a Muslim woman should dress. I’m here to say that people should never dictate any woman’s choice of clothing or expression. There is no standard ‘Muslim style’. Black or pink or any other colour are fine. I’m bold, I’m bright, and I’m not changing for anyone but myself.” — Nabeela Zaman, London, Englan, 2021, by Nabeela Zaman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175518129-T6R6KBW5YO353VQ43RTR/Manasa+Sitaram.jpg Home “I am empowered by my ability to adapt. Both in terms of my body adaption to be a habitat for a new human being, but also in being able to adapt to life in every phase - no matter what gets thrown my way. In some ways I feel it’s built into our DNA as women, to rise to the occasion no matter the circumstance and environment, but this journey of evolving into motherhood has really made that clear for me - we can do and be anything we put our minds to, if we’re open to a bit of change.” — Manasa Sitaram, Singapore, 2025 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702089720-CTZFDL05S9QJWGMP3HPN/30+Image2.jpeg Home “My children empower me. Naningkamot jd ko sa pastillas para sa akong mga anak. Tungod sa pag-empower nila nako. Ang akong love sa akong mga anak gyud ang naka pa-empower kay tungod sa akong love sa ilaha, I did everything and will do everything in my power para nila.” “My children empower me. I keep working hard for the success of our Pastillas delicacy business for them because they empower me. I did everything and will do everything in my power because I love my children.” — Gwendolyn Baliog Hollanes, Cebu City, The Philippines, 2020, by Vincent Jayvee Caberte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702104935-634KO94QH3SYBS834X8Q/14+2017+mei+IMG_9622_Ashler+Ubele.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702007416-22A28Q1CJ248NMCG57QR/25+2020+maggie+Kelly.jpeg Home “I spent my childhood as my dad's helper building things and fixing things at our house in the mountains. Now that I live in the city in an apartment, my bike tools enable me to step away from the news, my social life, or whatever is going on, and just focus on fixing something tangible. I also rest easy knowing that in just about any emergency I could hop on my bike, pedal my heart out, and get away from it all.” — Kelly, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maggie Walsh https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702691634-UQX2RNW7UHEAXHTIM7B7/Celebrate+Women+-+Maya+Wang.jpg Home “Makeup empowers me. It's one part self-expression, another part creation. I'm aware that the makeup & beauty industry capitalizes on insecurities and promotes unrealistic beauty standards, as well as being a highly gendered industry. However, I've started exploring ways of creating my own version of beauty using makeup as a medium. Sometimes, I'll do themed makeup and post pictures of my creation as a way to bring awareness to or start a conversation about a topic I care about - which is what I'm doing at this very moment. Drawing on my face feels so ephemeral and intimate, and taking self-portraits of my creation is incredibly empowering. Makeup is the medium that lets me express myself, feel confident in my own skin, and experience the joy of creating.” — Maya Wang, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maya Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702012379-CORFDGTE23O0J49LF2GU/26+2020+maggie+Allison.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743174502499-JPH4ZE1OJ221XJM97QUP/Jeanie.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709702255122-P0ZKLEQ8IAV9G5RBDEE8/Esther_IMG_1034+final.jpg Home “Through my religion, I realized my purpose in life and that’s to be used as a vessel to restore ladies affected by sexual sin especially abortion back to Jesus Christ, which really empowers me a great deal. Living each day knowing that there are ladies I need to reach out to daily and remind them that despite their past mistakes and failures God still loves, cares, and is willing and able to restore them back to Himself and to beautify their lives yes again.” — Esther, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743175929528-QOGTP256BL6XGRU8R3ZH/Shanghai_StubbsJennifer.png Home “Recovering from my failures empowers me because they far outnumber my successes and I have learned from them.” — Jennifer Stubbs, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709701920044-103NWXF06SKM8WVMKMA5/7.+2022+Sro+Clara_IW_2022.jpg Home “What empowers me is being a woman scientist. Science has always been dominated by men but there are now many women working in science and we are all trying to help each other to make a better future. No competition but ambition! Ciò che mi dà forza è essere una scienziata. La scienza è sempre stata dominata dagli uomini, ma ora ci sono molte scienziate e stiamo tutte cercando di aiutarci a vicenda per creare un futuro migliore. Nessuna competizione ma ambizione!” — Clara, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551989119586-W9PKDQSBMEPO2L6WWB6H/Shanghai_OlssonSabina.jpg Home "I’ve struggled a lot with self-image, especially on the basis of my acne, and for a long time I was ashamed of it. However nowadays, I never wear make-up. I hate the restriction and limits of make-up, I feel most like myself when I’m bare-faced. It’s me, no more and no less. I want to normalize natural skin and show girls that we’re fine without make-up. Additionally, I see my natural face, complete with its blemishes, as a sign of power. I feel powerful in my self-acceptance. In a society where women are supposed to hate themselves, living a fulfilling life despite acne, is like a giant middle finger to society, and I’m proud of that." — Sabina Olsson, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://celebratewomen.world/about daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551804214718-IOAB9KTXR1O9GEAAIVOQ/Alicia+Michelle+Williams%2C+Shanghai%2C+China%2C+2017%2C+by+David+Santiano About “Debbie Allen. Zora Neale Hurston. Phylicia Rashad. Toni Morrison. Roberta Flack—examples of powerful, strong, & beautiful black women who empower me to be better than, different than, & more than what society thinks I should be.” — Alicia Michelle Williams, Shanghai, China, 2017, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981508667-ZTDVFCV79D5ZP2J2RY6G/image-asset.jpeg About - Where? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551948105824-8S4TL0S2SGPB51ESHE7E/Noon%2C+Mae+Wang%2C+Thailand%2C+photo+by+Daughters+Rising About “I am empowered by freedom and travel. I am from a small Karen village in Thailand. Most women in my community can not drive and do not own cars. Last week I got my drivers license.” – Noon, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, photo by Daughters Rising https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551804755256-CP9BO2MQVCWCA66Y3QWD/Anna+Rudkevych%2C+London%2C+England%2C+2017%2C+by+David+Hoffmann About "Here is me now and me when I was 3. Thinking about everything that happened between now and then, good and not so good, empowers me. I overcame some challenges; being a victim of sexual assault was the toughest one. Looking back reminds me of how far I've come, and inspires me to live the life I want, without barriers" — Anna Rudkevych, London, England, 2017, by David Hoffmann https://celebratewomen.world/contact daily 0.75 2025-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551805336724-EVPYTIBJ94E41Q3XJBGJ/WechatIMG755.jpeg Contact https://celebratewomen.world/2019 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973312497-F41JRZFOAD1TRXQ2GWF6/Shanghai_StubbsJennifer.png 2019 “Recovering from my failures empowers me because they far outnumber my successes and I have learned from them.” — Jennifer Stubbs, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976354474-U3STGWLK6O48YAQYO8MG/18+IMG_2289+lilian.jpg 2019 “Community building empowers me because it is important for everyone to have a support system. Even though sometimes, especially when we experience stress, struggle or oppression, we may feel very much alone and helpless, but no one is ever really alone. That is why being part of building a community has been both a creative project and a healing process for myself. Whether it be through queer activism or through performing improv with Zmack, I have met the people I love and the people who love me. They have become my chosen family, they support me when I need help, challenge me to reflect and improve, and embrace me when I feel I cannot go on. Thank you for being there for me and helping me love myself. “ — Lilian Shen, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552129291485-CLWN8FZH1GB9HNRYENM6/Sirina+Zakari_by+Florence+Ama+Geyevu+edit.jpg 2019 "I am Sirina Zakari, a March born. My world almost came to a crush after I lost my Mum and Junior brother. My Mum died in the month of March, and my junior brother was also killed in March, ten years ago, following a struggle over a piece of farmland. My Dad, who depended solely on the farmland to cater for us, lost it to the oppositions in my family. With all this fear, I am happy today that I am able to sell food stuffs in the market to help myself. I am now a university student in my final year. I am really encouraged and empowered ." — Sirina Zakari,. Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Florence Ama Geyevu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552134978064-76Q94ELVQRMIAORJ7BF5/06+IMG_9871+copy.jpg 2019 “I really love dancing while I was 10 years old now I get it. I was learning dancing about 2 months. It was too difficult for me for the first time but day by day made me improve my dancing more better. In my future I want to be a Khmer traditional dance teacher. I want to show the world about Cambodian culture.” — Sreyrich, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 2019, by Nicole Chan at the World Association for Cambodia World Assistance for Cambodia (WAfC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving opportunities for the youth and rural poor in Cambodia. WAfC operates interlinked programs across Cambodia in the areas of education, health, rural development, and technology. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874011905-4FP60SWYES934VXMYSK1/Shanghai_ZhouNing.jpg 2019 “Skateboarding empowers me. I enjoy the time hanging with my skate friends. Sometimes I get extra care because I’m a female member. It seems to be a common cognition that girls are more delicate and less talented in skating. I really appreciate their help and caring. But, it was only after too many times of falls and social embarrassments that I started to learn and discover the fun of skating. It’s okay to fall. Pros fall too, and sometimes they fall even harder.” — Ningning Zhou, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873634814-1UK7O1AK9C3JECFSEN4O/Marisha.jpg 2019 “I'm a dancer and a lawyer - balancing creativity and practicality to find ways to help people empowers me. I love making difficult concepts in the law accessible by finding creative ways to explain them and make them more human. Both my passions are about connecting with people and being able to balance them well makes me happy.” — Marisha, NYC, USA, 2019, by Noel Konagai https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873577879-YSARS2Z7WDJJIFCI2TXT/Mae.jpg 2019 “I strongly believe that education and knowledge is the greatest empowerment that a woman can have. I was fortunate to have been brought up in Singapore, where the government has mandated education for all girls, and lucky to have worked with the most supportive male leaders in my career, who empowered me to pursue my Tech MBA in NYC. Without their recommendations and guidance towards my scholarship application, as well as faith in my potential to grow as a female leader, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to be here talking to an amazing person like you right now!” — Mae, NYC, USA, 2019, by Noel Konagai https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884187502-BMC70PPQ7SAC3R7LD8IR/Shanghai_TanJoyce.jpg 2019 “My job empowers me. Working on Diversity Initiatives at NYU Shanghai, I've come to find a voice of my own and a critical lens to view and navigate the world around me. As an introverted conflict-averse person, my faith in what I do gives me the strength to advocate for those who are stereotyped, objectified, marginalized or otherwise unfairly treated. I become more ready and equipped to challenge people's beliefs and assumptions, even when it means confronting biased comments made by friends and families and calling out harmful behaviors. Understanding how meaningful and impactful my work can be, I'm ever more motivated to keep learning about myself, others, and the interconnections in our shared universe.” — Joyce Tan, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979259410-F9O96JC22M2HNHS4XPNR/IMG_3263+juli.jpg 2019 “I am currently pregnant with my first child, a daughter. The unimaginable transformation and capability of the female body empowers me. The immense love I feel for another human being whom I have not yet seen empowers me. The connection and empathy I now have for my own mother, my grandmother, and all mothers who have come before, both empowers and humbles me as I prepare to join their ranks.” — Juli Min, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552131491709-1UWR5QCP2XIQ47JKP3HK/04+IMG_9797.jpg 2019 “My families empower me. I am an Orphan because my parents were divorced since I was born. I was looked down by people around me, since that day I always told myself that when I grow up, I must try to study hard and finish bachelor degree and after that I find a good job for earning a high salary to support my family to live in a better life. Finally, my dream became true and I showed people around me that even I don't have daddy but my whole family can motivate me to be successful and I could stand by myself and strong enough to overcome all the obstacles in my life as an orphan. So the family is empowering me for the whole life even they did not give me the money to support me for everything but they still had provided me a beautiful smile to push me to reach the goal.” — Ms Pech Linna, Phnom Pehn, Cambodia, 2019, by Nicole Chan at the World Association for Cambodia World Assistance for Cambodia (WAfC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving opportunities for the youth and rural poor in Cambodia. WAfC operates interlinked programs across Cambodia in the areas of education, health, rural development, and technology. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873815899-59BS9X7KJOHBCOR5U53S/Shanghai_BerktayAsli.jpg 2019 "I am empowered by Africa's warrior queens, but also by all the women silenced by the pages of history. I walk with the enslaved and freed women who resisted and said no all over the African Diaspora, the ordinary women who fought against losing their voices to men. I walk with witches and mermaids, and all the female Orixás/Orishas (goddesses) of the Yoruba pantheon. On both sides of my family, I come from lineages of women kind, intelligent, caring, and strong. It is from all of them that I take my strength and persistence, resilience and courage." — Asli Berktay, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883930824-8YYC3VCL8GOZ0MVVK9RY/Shanghai_McleanChelsea.jpg 2019 “I am empowered by my hair. When I was young I was told to never wear my hair natural. Today I wear it natural at every chance I can get." — Chelsea Mclean, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873766136-3798TA3YR487LDYITQKZ/Shanghai_ChenNora.jpg 2019 “Chinese opera empowers me. My grandma brought it to my world when I was three. Since then, it never left. The stories in opera teach me how to tell what is good and what is wrong when I was still a kid. More importantly, it is going to bond me with this land deeply whenever I go in the future.” — Nora Chen, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973701633-ODZAAIGOTFUDHCBIP579/Accra_PretlowCourtney.jpg 2019 “Music empowers me because it allows me to express myself in a comfortable way. I have always loved to dance, and there is always a song playing in my head for me to dance to. Music makes me feel confident. It’s like the background music in a movie, conveying the tone of the scene. There is always a song that can match your mood. And if you can’t find one, you can make it yourself, and share it with others who feel the same way. Now that’s powerful. Music brings people together this way. It has helped me make so many friends in choirs, musicals, and other organizations. The friends I have made me feel even more confident in myself and my ambitions, and are always there to give me added support when I need it. (We also make really great playlists to share with each other). ‘Thank you for the music’ -ABBA” — Courtney Pretlow, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873810375-U5AF00S6XR8XNI3OQD07/Shanghai_CheungJennifer.jpg 2019 “It empowers me to assert my own sense of style day to day. I feel most comfortable in classical silhouettes with slight personal touches, such as colorful art printed socks. Wide leg pants especially are a big source of confidence, since their versatility gives me the most freedom in movement and style.” — Jennifer Cheung, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552129143981-MNYPXNVR4D78CJOI7WC1/Mavis+Apawu_by+Forence+Ama+Geyevu+edit.jpg 2019 "Art empowers me. With art, I can express my feelings without words. I see the world through art." — Mavis Apawu, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Florence Ama Geyevu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016406258-4EZHIQZM2KQ1W8ZCJWI5/IMG_9980+doris.jpg 2019 “作为我可爱女孩的妈妈，和她一起生活、学习、玩耍、挑战，一起变优秀、一起创造更多未来，这些都会使我变得更加有力量。” “Being the mother of my adorable girl, living with her, studying, playing, challenging, getting better together, creating a future together... these all empower me.” — Doris Yu 玎玎, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873869032-XWTLIBE56V5HG819G2XK/Shanghai_ChoiStella.jpg 2019 “What empowers me is my ohana, Stitch. Ohana means family, family means nobody get left behind or forgotten. After being Lilo’s ohana, Stitch became a loyal, friendly and family-centered person. When I am almost knocked down by stress, a warm hug from Stitch always reminds me that my ohanas are always by my side and I am never alone.” — Stella Choi, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975726999-9TJ3171DWWQNK44UUL1N/14+IMG_2044+nikki.jpg 2019 "My mom empowers me because she and I were the closest in my family. She started having children early, but she didn't want that for me. She helped me financially and emotionally through university knowing when I finished I'd leave her. She loved me enough to let me go.” — Nikki, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976100632-IZ2OBWO8BSDGYBSBON3H/15+IMG_2141+debra.jpg 2019 “My friends and family have supported or encouraged me having adventures and generally living the life I want to live, even if it's untraditional. They also challenge my understanding of the world (in a good way), helping me grow. It's due to them that I can live my life thoughtfully, which is the foundation of what empowers me.” — Debra Ma, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873977106-ET2JB4CMGMXVARV0NZIZ/Shanghai_ThanawalaMariya.jpg 2019 “I am empowered by books. They consistently expand my knowledge, and help me grow as a person.” — Mariya Thanawala, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Rachel Wen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873972000-H2IT3ZREMDZX6L31RO9L/Shanghai_WangJessica.jpg 2019 "As a typical Asian girl, I am blessed with typical single-fold eyelids, which makes me proud. I am confident in what I look like. However, drawing eyeliners can empower me with a braver personality, which encourages me to better embrace every possibility in my life.” — Jessica Wang, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874018069-ETI37LT0TO6EWVLQ8Z41/Shanghai_ZhouVivian.jpg 2019 “TED Talks empower me as a woman because they make me realize how great I am! They are like self-help books in a video form. TED Talks encourage me to be open-minded and at the same time to be aware of things that are going on around me. It is wildly inspiring to see people talk about personal experiences and how it has shaped them. Through TED Talks, I feel like I am always learning and hearing new ideas that make me more excited about what life has to offer. It is empowering for me to be able to listen to empowered people talk about things that are at times personal and raw, yet so powerful nonetheless.” — Vivian Zhou, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552129285025-806NRTI9EA84W9EWTH1C/Fibi+Adikour+Afloe_by+Misper+Apawu.JPG 2019 "I like to listen to music because I get more inspiration and it emboldens me to do what I love to do. Music always empowers me." — Fibi Adikour Afloe, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Misper Apawu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873914959-PYTGO852PL28Q5CIWY95/Shanghai_SongKathy.jpg 2019 “My name is Kathy and embracing my chinese identity is what empowers me. I hope to continue my journey of studying chinese throughout these four years to better reconnect with my roots. I aspire to learn Shanghainese and write my own poetry some day.” — Kathy Song, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Rachel Wen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016379047-7VKZ5KBNFS4NAYIC4FNU/IMG_1114+miriam.jpg 2019 “These are the shoes I wear for sports and other physical activities, like hiking. They're empowering because it fills me with confidence and empowers me to tackle other challenges whenever I overcome a physical challenge, like hiking up a mountain. I also take them with me when I travel, so I've worn them all around the world and they have helped me broaden my horizons. When I lace them up, I can channel a bit of all those experiences in the confidence I feel.” — Miriam Kohn, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874047120-Q2P5D4V7CC8H8ZNZLTT1/Shanghai_ZhuAshley.jpg 2019 “I am empowered by my camera. It allows me to express my creativity and wit, through making silly films or artistic projects. My camera is my lens to the world, as I capture the beauty of life on film, and share it online with others.” — Ashley Zhu, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Rachel Wen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552129258077-MAMNBX2Q7KSBFYXGS16X/Misper+Apawu_by+Fibi+Adikour+Afloe.JPG 2019 "My camera empowers me because I'm beginning to think and see differently since I started photography. Photography also helps me to share and communicate to people around the whole world about things they have not known or seen before." — Misper Apawu, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Fibi Adikour Afloe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874537565-31DDX3MI8PZOBM344AGX/New+York_LimRyeri.jpg 2019 “I've always struggled to accept myself in the present state. I'm so driven by the fear of feeling unprepared, amateurish, and subsequently embarrassed; in the past, I limited myself to safe and stagnant situations. But I've been growing in acceptance of myself, the reality of myself, at any given moment. This safety-pin is a real example of handling sh*t and moving on. I love how I look in this dress—a broken button can't withhold my confidence and presence. When I find time to sew the button back on, I can and I will. Until then, this—me as I am—will do.” — Ryeri Lim, NYC, USA, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874532159-EG010050PG8DFEK4CJWM/New+York_ShinJiwon.jpg 2019 “Coffee, tea, juice, water… Anything to keep going!” — Jiwon Shin, NYC, USA, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874545581-QA2GX0CKTRX4Y4SAPATQ/Shanghai_BoltonKrista.jpg 2019 “My education empowers me. Studying at NYU Shanghai has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge, and it’s a privilege that I do not take lightly. I’ve chosen my classes based on which topics genuinely interest me, and these classes have helped me to develop a clearer understanding of what I’d like to achieve in my lifetime. I feel much more equipped to engage with the world than I did four years ago.” — Krista Bolton, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874555806-X2AEUHOFMJXGEECZTTHX/Shanghai_GodinezLuisa.jpg 2019 “It took me a long time to recognize that I am empowered by my voice. I have opinions, I have beliefs, and I have a voice. I’m privileged to be in a situation where people listen to what I have to say, and it doesn’t matter if they agree with me or not, because we are equals in the conversation. One day I hope to use my voice to inspire others and have a positive impact on the world.” — Luisa Godinez, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551977220788-DQHL0RVMCTVJIZ8ATQ59/IMG_2921+dolaa.jpg 2019 “我对这个世界充满好奇，这让我充满力量。 每天六点起床，十二点睡觉，剩下的十八个小时留给我填充好奇心。 我喜欢尝试各种新奇的东西（主要是食物），热爱学习各种各样的本领（虽然水平不高），我像一个十二岁的小孩一样对世界充满兴趣，也像小孩一样很多事情想做但做不好。 但那有什么关系，世界很有趣，保持好奇就行！” “I am full of curiosity about the world, which makes me strong. Get up at six o'clock every day, go to bed at twelve o'clock, and leave the remaining eighteen hours to fill my curiosity. I like to try all kinds of new things (mainly food), love to learn all kinds of skills (although not to a high-level), I'm sort of like a twelve-year-old kid who is interested in the entire world, and like a kid who wants to do many things but can not do them all well. But what does that matter? The world is interesting. Stay curious! “ — Dolaa Hu, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646490902944-NLZFTXH33993W85SBV4L/Shanghai_LiKatherine.jpg 2019 “My family empowers me. They serve as role models, mentors, and friends in every aspect of my life, and encourage me to stay true to who I am." — Katherine Li, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016444283-A23W7UT4856MD6Y043TJ/Ananya2.jpg 2019 “Art that forces you to think, Technology that progresses our society, An empathic ear for a distressed soul empowers me. I am empowered when I doubt myself and my husband encourages me to go out and turn my dreams into reality. I feel empowered when I see a woman stand up for herself in the face of the society that forces her to submit. I feel empowered when I see a person embrace his/her true self. I feel empowered when I just can be.” — Ananya, NYC, USA, 2019, by Noel Konagai https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874595249-CAEYKTRVJA8ZCLO4SZGK/Shanghai_PellegrinoKatie.jpg 2019 “Photography empowers me because it reminds me to see the world around me. It pushes me to be open to new perspectives and helps me to find beauty in the small things.” — Katie Pellegrino, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874601377-V92OWUPAYFF6I6AL8ORT/Shanghai_PrewettMaike.jpg 2019 “Over the past year and a half, shaving my head has become a bi-monthly ritual of loss, renewal, and resilience. It is also a communal act, with friends and family members helping during the process. I am empowered both by this act, and by the love and strength of my support network; I see in myself a woman I am proud of, and I see in my friends and family members the woman I aspire to be.” — Maike Prewett, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874618473-JWGS3YD9S00F4RBVTPHZ/Shanghai_WarnerLia.jpg 2019 “I'm empowered through studying the history and writings of radical feminists who came before me. I hope I can learn from their struggles and contribute meaningfully to our continuing fight for liberation.” — Lia Warner, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551874623644-SIEHVUJGJX4DHB0B7LX3/Shanghai_WongMillicent.jpg 2019 "For so long, I've internalized messages that I was lazy, disorganized, irresponsible, and annoying. Recently being diagnosed has been a relief. Cheesy as it is, parts of my ADHD have empowered me –– it is part of my exuberant, driven, creative personality and it is a source for the good habits I've had to develop. As women are frequently underdiagnosed for ADHD, it's also a chance to remind everyone that seeking help is not a weakness, it too, is empowerment." — Millie Wong, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552129103710-GBSNUWVEXC61FZ2LJ26W/Florence+Ama+Geyevu_by+Mavis+Apawu+edit.jpg 2019 "I love Ghana. The colours in the flag empower me to be faithful and loyal to my country." — Florence Ama Geyevu, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Mavis Apawu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883257244-E5TMKY42N99A6WJA9BIH/Shanghai_AmeijeirasClaudia.jpg 2019 "The pain I feel for my country's situation (Venezuela) empowers me to keep learning and improving myself to one day be able to come back prepared to reconstruct the country I love. It hurts to be far, but having Venezuela in my heart gives me a reason to give my all everyday." — Claudia Ameijeiras, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Alejandra Arevalo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883296303-W6LVT7S6MMALK7HV9LBZ/Shanghai_KongXiaoyan.jpg 2019 “What empowers me is my pride and acceptance of myself, who I am, because it enables me to stand up for what I believe in and gives agency of my life.” — Xiaoyan Kong, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Alejandra Arevalo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883451787-VJ2SJQLS8FSGE87XP8UF/Shanghai_WangJingjing.jpg 2019 "My parents‘ hugs empower me. The warmth reminds me that I'll always have family as a support system no matter where I am. But more importantly, it reminds me that I'll always be connected to generations of strong immigrants who smash expectations and can and have achieved anything they put their mind to.” — Jingjing Wang, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Alejandra Arevalo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883357229-ZAMQS89YVS7DVPRLFHJ3/Shanghai_FelixAlyanna.jpg 2019 “It is empowering to think about the long line of strong, Filipina women standing behind me. Every single one of them gave everything up to give a better life to their children and the people around them. Without their determination, spirit, and tenacity, I wouldn’t have any of the opportunities I have today or be able to cherish them.” — Alyanna Felix, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Katie Pellegrino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016320664-DY6ZBRTQUCUPRLYM0RYM/IMG_1250+jen.jpg 2019 “My family back home in the Philippines empowers me. My mom gave me this necklace last year during our clan reunion. It always reminds me that the person I am today is the sum of all the teachings, support, and opportunities my family has enabled me to have. I am the youngest of four siblings while my mama and papa had 9 and 12 siblings, respectively. So you can only imagine what our family reunions were like! Ever since I could remember, we always had large family gatherings and annual clan reunions filled with so much fun, love, and support. I have a lot of aunts and uncles who are like second parents to me and over 30 cousins constantly checking in on me. Being in such a positive and supportive environment just made me feel I can do anything!” — Jennifer Sheils Hollanes, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883445864-K5JWL7PSI7A9GSUPMOHB/Shanghai_LiangMaggie.jpg 2019 “Solitude imbues me with a fascinating power to introspect and externalize through various forms of art. It is not necessarily an escape from socializing per se, but more an outlet. And I need and must show that solitude is okay, for anyone especially women.” — Maggie Liang, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Katie Pellegrino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883473048-7FP2X6TJAM2IAU2RF48V/Shanghai_TeshomeMahderTakele.jpg 2019 “My native tongue empowers me. It's the part of home I get to bring with me wherever I go. Through Amharic, I transform into a poetic feminist, a flamboyant romantic, a sage advisor- even a comedian. The language is so rich in culture and history that I feel beautiful using it.” — Mahder Takele Teshome, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Katie Pellegrino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016315990-DXC20Y04QBUC3ZTG1KBZ/IMG_1305+meabh.jpg 2019 “Reading empowers me. These days, I feel that having hobbies is underrated - that we’ve forgotten that you can do things just for pleasure, and not because it will make you more employable. Self-improvement is great, and there is so much to learn about the world from reading, but sometimes there is nothing to learn; there’s just a good plot, or stunning characterisation, or female character who I identify with. Sometimes, the only lesson that I come away with is that reading can make you more empathetic, more imaginative, and more inspired to face the world again. I feel empowered when I read because it is time just for me, and because I hope that one day, I might be brave enough to write.” — Meabh Flanagan, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981518262-K64BLHM8YE977E774Z1O/01+IMG_8853+adlina.jpg 2019 “What empowers me is knowing I have a choice. From the clothes I put on to the hobbies I pick up. To know that there is no box that can confine me. And that my individuality matters.” — Adlina, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883487594-GECPO8PBKNY6YB0PXCVI/Shanghai_UySerenaClarisseGo.jpg 2019 “I am empowered by laughter. They say laughter is the best medicine and I actually believe in it. Seeing other people smile is contagious and inspires me to persevere through everything. Perhaps that’s why I secretly (and not so secretly) want to do stand up comedy in my spare time!” — Serena Clarisse Go Uy, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Katie Pellegrino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883498901-B3SJS6MC1ZJF1BOGJSBD/Shanghai_ZhengJikai.jpg 2019 “I started playing ping pong since my head was the height of the ping pong table. Ping pong empowers me, because of how it makes me feel- relaxed, energetic, and (sometimes) fiercely competitive. It connects me to my roots, because I first learned ping pong from my grandma, who remains an important female figure in my life. Ping pong also gives me the chance to meet many cool people, which is a really empowering connection. I feel so grateful that my parents taught me this unique life skill.” — Jikai Zheng, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Katie Pellegrino https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873559451-SVDMJ2MKTA3IMP2RZE0X/Leanna.jpg 2019 “I am empowered by my community. I am doing research on the food supply and my farmer friends have been generous sharing their data with me and taking the time to talk through the problem. I’m excited to build something that helps my community.” — Leanna, NYC, USA, 2019, by Noel Konagai https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551883803361-Z5MVTFTXHOGE5AB2FTDZ/ChengRosie.jpg 2019 “Playing Guqin empowers me to take rough with the smooth and turn them into music. It helps me focus on my inner peace regardless of the anxiety or vanity generated from the bustle metropolitan city.” — Cheng Rosie, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Linhui Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884057835-YP40X7I8EQET1XUROYYH/Shanghai_RenMaggie.jpg 2019 “Dancing empowers me to engage in a positive, flexible and healthy lifestyle. It helps keep me feeling strong, facilitates my creativity, and enables me to try new things.” — Maggie Ren, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884057568-886MTD6D3Q9ENO10S32U/Shanghai_SanJuanCharlotte.jpg 2019 “This beat-up little chapbooklette contains a single poem I wrote, my first printed publication from 2012. It's a mini ode to a previous life of adventure and misadventure in California. Flipping through it takes me back to my fearless beginnings as a writer and reminds me to stay hungry and foolish.'“ — Charlotte San Juan, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884221225-4NSD61X2ERP9MK58I7U6/Shanghai_WaleyCohenJoanna.jpg 2019 "The written word is and has always been of huge importance to me for three reasons: it enables communication with people near and far; it enables me constantly to expand my knowledge and understanding; and it lights fires in my imagination" — Joanna Waley-Cohen, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873872329-4H7IRQJU6S9DW7AP8V76/Shanghai_GonzalezIsa.jpg 2019 “Being myself empowers me. I like to deliver myself as a raw presence, because the only person that can empower you the most is yourself.” — Isa Gonzalez, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Rachel Wen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884339773-BS0JVL6A5ESK1EWHFJBQ/Shanghai_ZhaoAmanda.jpg 2019 “Laughing at how much a emotional rollercoaster I went through with my Computer Science degree empowers me. It’s a laugh now but it was truly all tears. Luckily my effort eventually paid off. Now whenever I face a challenge, I will think to myself, “nothing can be harder than CS, right?”, and it reminds me how strong I can be and how much I am able to accomplish.” — Jiachen (Amanda) Zhao, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884353382-3WFCQ4F68JO72JOY898L/Shanghai_BellaXu.jpg 2019 “Cakes empower me since it reminds me of my parents’ beliefs in me. Since I was a child, whenever I feel depressed, my parents would buy my favourite cake for me. They would tell me, “After you finish this cake, you will step forward and face the setbacks bravely.” Even until now, whenever I return home, I can always find my favourite cake in the fridge, waiting for me to come home.” — Bella Xu, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Daisy Qianyi Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884369473-I52RTUX7Z3LP1QI4PJJK/shanghai_CarusoEleonora.JPG 2019 "This Planetarium Projector empowers me. My biggest dream has always been to become an astrophysicist, and when I founded the Astronomy Club at NYU Shanghai last fall, it felt like a huge step towards my dream. Being able to bring my passion for astronomy at NYU Shanghai and having the possibility to share it with other people makes me feel happy and empowered. This projector is the big protagonist of our club meetings as we use it to observe stars and constellations! " — Caruso Eleonora, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Xiaohan Zeng https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884276851-AUL8A7FIJLITT0RBQ6YB/Shanghai_ChandZareenBishka.jpg 2019 “My suit empowers me. Wearing it makes me feel confident that I deserve a seat at the table, even when I’m the only woman in the room, and I hope I can pave the way for more little girls in suits.” — Bishka Zareen Chand, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Millie Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975680899-SKUXK5JUJFPG4J6R7O9H/13+IMG_2001+shuang.jpg 2019 “Shared experiences, compassion and solidarity of women empower me. Every time I face difficulties in life, it’s the power of women in the history who fought for my rights, women at the present who are supporting my dreams and women in the future who will be sharing the solidarity that lifts me up again. We connect, emphasize, and embrace each other across time and space. “ — Shuang Lin, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884385242-ONITGV79EHNJ00MEYRPM/shanghai_HuangAmanda.JPG 2019 “Photography empowers me. In a sense it provides me a chance of taking a peek into other people’s life and understanding how things really is. Photography in a way, especially when capturing someone or something in an unguarded state, makes me feel that the world has just opened a little bit more to me. The image attracts me, and the story behind those images also evokes my passion.” — Huang Amanda, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Xiaohan Zeng https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975232275-DS0VYL49UBVD32ZUKGV4/09+IMG_1734+hao.jpg 2019 “音乐让我感到力量 它的包容性和独立性让我在创作的过程中不断增加对自己与世界的了解。音乐是我最安全的领地，也是我不留边界表达自己的渠道。” “Music makes me feel strong. Its inclusiveness and independence make me more and more aware of myself and the world in the process of creation. Music is my safest territory, and I do not leave the border to express myself.” - Hao Li, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552133045229-7HVLNMPMMT8F5POPNWPG/07+IMG_9951+copy.jpeg 2019 “I'm empowered by the knowing the sacrifices of my family. It’s make me feel that I could have the ability to solve the problem like them too, and they told me being a good person, kind, polite to everyone and help people who need to help. They always refreshing me whenever I’m in trouble. These values can’t be bought or sold and I consider myself extremely lucky to have them. I love my family. I will try to study hard and be a good person for my family and my society.” — Chanthoeurn bun, Phnom Pehn, Cambodia, by Nicole Chan at the World Association for Cambodia World Assistance for Cambodia (WAfC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving opportunities for the youth and rural poor in Cambodia. WAfC operates interlinked programs across Cambodia in the areas of education, health, rural development, and technology. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884307971-OF8V3SJEQB9YR23N07ZU/Shanghai_Pike-GottAlexandrea.jpg 2019 “To my mom, grandmas, and my favorite role models –– Ruth, Madeleine, and Hillary –– thank you for empowering the next generation of feminists.” — Alexandrea Pike-Goff, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Millie Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552013638808-5V7UNLDVKGLZ9IIUFNPZ/Justine_Hsu.jpg 2019 "Paradoxically, it is my ignorance and insecurity that empowers me. They remind me that I am human, I make mistakes, and I have far more to learn than what I already know. But at the same time, they’re the visceral markers of my progress: how far I’ve come and how far I can still go. I am constantly struggling between two polarizing realities — the outlines of the person I want to be, and the awareness of the vast distance which lies between me and her. But so much of the beauty in life, so much of what propels my pursuit of truth and knowledge and self, lies in the journey of bridging that gap. The awareness of this reality humbles me deeply. But it is equally empowering." — Justine Hsu, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Thana Gu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551971192520-BBAQR38KY9VHR3HB8O7M/Shanghai_ChenSilvia.png 2019 “Filmmaking empowers me. It provides me a stage to create something out of raw inner emotions and my endless imaginations of the world. Things that can hardly be expressed by words, or do not need to be conveyed through words can be inclusive in a film. Whenever my audience empathize with my film, or when I just simply watch my own work, I would feel a rekindled, and even stronger passion once again.” — Silvia Chen, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551971170427-G8KCKD8E0OA505XTBVJ3/Shanghai_DreuxLara.png 2019 “Books. Books empower me. Literature’s multiform and plasticity has always fascinated me for as long as I can remember. Through reading I first taught myself English grammar and, step by step, new worlds, foreign lands and imaginary societies opened up before me. With time I have come to appreciate different writing styles and more subtle ways in which writers drop little pieces of themselves in between the lines. Literature’s immeasurable potential to transmit either abstract imagery such as in Amos Oz’s works, or more picturesque scenes such as in Goethe’s has enables me to mature with each page, still left craving for more.” — Lara Dreux, Shanghai, China, 2019, Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552133217542-Y08PBAU2CL2FDGBWYH62/05+IMG_9813+copy.jpg 2019 “My name is chnathy and I was born in a poor. My brother and sister was drop off from school and they are working as the factory staffs. When I was young, I always think I will try to earn money for support the study until I finish the bachelor degree because I don’t want to difficult them. I msut be study hard even I meet the obstacles. I am always struggling to study for get knowledge well, and my family empowers me that I had finished my bachelor degree at ROYAL UNIVERSITY OF LAW AND ECONOMICS at Specializing in Economic Development. Currently, I had a job and got a good salary at World Assistance for Cambodia. Finally, I would like to say thank you very much to the President of the Organization that has compassion me give a chance to me to be work in the Center “ The Foster Care and A New Life Center”. So the empower me is my success of study for Bachelor Degree of Economics Development.” — Ms. Sok Chanthy, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 2019, by Nicole Chan at the World Association for Cambodia World Assistance for Cambodia (WAfC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving opportunities for the youth and rural poor in Cambodia. WAfC operates interlinked programs across Cambodia in the areas of education, health, rural development, and technology. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551971762336-3UT110TXDCHA705EZAB8/Shanghai_ManzoorSidra.png 2019 “Tickets empower me. These remind me of all the amazing adventures I have had in my life. Now I’m looking forward to adding many more to my collection.” — Sidra Manzoor, Shanghai, China, 2019, Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973115943-J2LEOZ26EOU8NLBR1EM3/Shanghai_TianAmber.png 2019 “Cosmetic empowers me. It is not about concealing the imperfections I have, it is about discovering the true me. It is not about pleasing others with a better appearance, it is about allowing myself to see that I have so many different possibilities through cosmetic. I am able to express the real me through color combinations and different makeup techniques. Whenever I put cosmetics on, I feel like a part of me is strengthened.” — Amber Tian, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Keyin Wu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973208449-HKUNODZV20DJ6B92ERE0/Accra_LourimEmily.jpg 2019 “My mom is the strongest woman I know. She inspires me everyday as a woman. Not only has she always been there and supported me, but she has done so much in her career as a lawyer. She had helped so many people and she even started her own law practice. My mom embodies strength and she is the most incredible role model!” — Emily Lourim, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973454550-383NNY8UTGE2RUGWP75T/Accra_MontagueSidney.jpg 2019 “My family empowers me because they are always there for me when I need them, they make me into the best version of myself, and they always want the best for me. My family empowers me because they are incredible role models that teach me how to be a better person. My family empowers me because they make me happy.” — Sidney Montague, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973584177-TW43VUIAYWD8WH3USB54/Accra_NaranjoKaicy.jpg 2019 “My tattoos empower me because they are the parts of my body that I love even on my bad days.” — Kaicy Naranjo, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973669467-KFCF2GJ2TIXN0CZY44LW/Accra_NiedzielaCassi.jpg 2019 “Kindness for others and myself empowers me because far too often it is left out of the equation. Recognizing the worth of yourself and others allows you to have the most extreme impact that radiates outwards. A simple smile can turn someone’s day around!” — Cassi Niedziela, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552130542749-A8L1KWJRY4OFYBNIFECS/Zainab+Abdulai_by+Doreen+Ntumy+edit.jpg 2019 "In this part of our world, where art is looked down upon, getting into photography came as a passion and a great opportunity to do better as a woman. I have the ability to create beautiful, creative and amazing images that will stand the test of time for the future generations. As a young growing woman being able to help others document their livelihood and creating memories with their families and loved ones is what empowers me. I live for that experience everyday. As the saying goes: a picture speaks 1000 words." — Zainab Abdulai, Accra, Ghana, 2019, by Doreen Ntumy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973738004-9Z4ORDRHRDD29VKM0S8T/Shanghai_LiHairong.JPG 2019 “每次当我从711下班结束一天的工作，不用再装关东煮，脱掉工作服然后可以换上我自己的衣服，挎上自己的包的时候，那个瞬间我就很开心，或许是给了我力量的。想到可以回家见到我的家人，做饭给他们吃，一家人聊聊天，这对于我很重要。” — 李海蓉 Li HaiRong, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Amanda Huang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873526880-04R3PNMSJ6D7OBYNGZUA/Emily.jpg 2019 “What empowers me as a woman? Three things: Resilience, perspective and community. First, resilience. Ask anyone who’s the eldest daughter of immigrants—from day one we cultivate a knack for handling anything. In my short life I’ve been the person packing boxes, pitching NASA, and planning a funeral. It really comes down to a deliberate practice of white guy confidence. When I mess up, I get up and try again. I trust myself to figure it out in the end. Second, perspective. I’m incredibly lucky and privileged to have the choices that I do. I don’t take them for granted. I’m in a position now to advocate for people who don’t have it as easy. That in itself empowers me daily. And last but certainly not least, community. I try to surround myself with strong and inspiring women, and it makes a huge difference. Not just the friends, family and mentors I talk to every day, but also the media I consume and the projects I devote my time to. That’s the best advice I can give — be deliberate about the world you live in. If you don’t have that community now, create that community for yourself.” — Emily, NYC, USA, 2019, by Noel Konagai https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973779833-7E4ZT88XDLX93APSH5E5/Shanghai_LongCarol.JPG 2019 “Verbal language empowers me. When I was having hard times, it was the kind words from my family and friends that give me power and help me keep on and move forwards. No matter how busy people are, the last thing they should forget is communicating with each other with the kindest words and love.” — Carol Long, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Amanda Huang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551974489992-RF44J9191VK3ZQYREI6T/Shanghai_LeYin.JPG 2019 “Smile empowers me. There’s no physical object you can carry along with you all the time. Yet if you need one to empower you, how can you be empowered all the time? Why not just a simple smile.” — Le Yin, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Amanda Huang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551974885906-WK2N5BRC9KCI5ZLEQ075/02+IMG_9248+Hennie+Grace.jpg 2019 “I’m empowered by my voice. I have been in so many situations where I was expected to be silent simply because I am a woman. In these moments I make a point of using my voice and reminding those around me that I have opinions and ideas, which deserve to be heard too. “ — Hennie Grace, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551974967553-BT5QU0D1DJX1JVDPROVK/08+IMG_1709+ruby.jpg 2019 “My Passport empowers me because it is a symbol and proof of my traveling experience. I've been to 32 countries and lived in 3 of them. Everything I experienced in person taught me to appreciate and celebrate differences between people. Being Open-minded empowers me in this chaotic time.” — 谢京洋Ruby, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975355727-9YL7BAWR6OC48XGMTJQG/10+IMG_1824+allyson+toy.jpg 2019 “I’m empowered by the strength and drive for independence my grandmother passed down to me. My paupau (grandmother) moved from Hong Kong to San Francisco as a child in the 1910s. She came with her mother to meet my great grandpa, a charismatic businessman who’d already made a name for himself in the US. But some years later, my great grandfather would file for divorce from my great grandmother, an immigrant woman left to fend for herself in the 1920s with no education, English language abilities, or options. The experience compelled my paupau to leave the comfort and shelter of her home early, enrolling herself in college and eventually starting her own business in a time where this was unheard of for women, let alone immigrant women. Her version of the American Dream was fighting for her own independence, which allowed her to care for herself, my mother, me and my great grandmother for the rest of her life. Later on, my mother and I would both go on to start our own businesses and chase our own dreams. If paupau could do it, so could we. “ — Allyson Toy, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973729439-ZQQUGAXF05KA4D7C8UNO/Shanghai_GodfreyMorgan.JPG 2019 “The women in my family empower me. Growing up with a family of all women who are scientists, artists, teachers, mothers, and nurses was really inspirational for me. I feel the legacy of our family matriarchy every time I am with my family - and this is something that has empowered me since I was young. I was never taught that I couldn't do anything because I was woman, instead I was told I could do something because I am a woman. ” — Morgan Emily Godfrey, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Amanda Huang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975447831-W4UTVW0Z6YIW125B3KL6/11+IMG_1873+wendy.jpg 2019 “Eating nice food, chating with good friends and working for amazing tasks, all these give me more energy.” — Wendy, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976073288-XI5ZUSJXRUFA514BA3FY/16+IMG_2186+bai+fei.jpg 2019 “在我十七歲之前沒有接觸到任何關於女權的社會行動之前，我還是一名非常抑鬱的自卑者，當我接觸了女權小夥伴，參加他們的社會行動之後，我逐漸擺脫了自卑。找到了自己的人生方向.” “Before I was seventeen years old, I was very depressed and had a bit of an inferiority complex. When I contacted women's rights partners and took part in their social activities, I gradually got rid of my inferiority complex. Find your own direction in life. “ — 白大樹 Bai Da Shu, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016448154-1S4YZYYKUQIA0XIZOOVQ/IMG_9938+susan.jpg 2019 “This helmet empowers me because it reminds me of never giving up. It is hard to get up and go ride immediately after falling from a horse. I know I am stronger than I think because I am able to swallow my tears and get back on riding without hesitating.” — Susan Chen 陈怡文, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976210991-ROWH58M5TW59KS1EAM6E/17+IMG_2258+cw+robin.jpg 2019 “I'm empowered by fear, worry, anxiety, and stress, by all the weakness inside me, by all the darkness around me. I worry about my mom, about all this humiliation she could get for having a gay daughter; I fear that one day I will be crushed down under the pressure and end up in a "normal" life as my family expected; I'm anxious about my life, about the possibility that it might fall apart someday if I'm not fighting hard enough for it. And all these negative emotions urge me to keep going, to escape from the life I hate, and to be who I am. “ — Robin, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976505215-XL10E422KLAS7CR72RZ7/19+IMG_2579+gina.jpg 2019 “I feel empowered by reading books with themes of identity, history, ethnicity, and internal struggle. Reading these texts as a history teacher inspires me to do what I can to dismantle systems of oppression and to help others internalize their minority characteristics as a source of pride. “ — Gina Lee Smith, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976771676-CZMKGCXSAUQCSMKUU8TH/20+IMG_2672+lu+weini.jpg 2019 “我觉得是爱和好奇心让我充满力量” “I am empowered by love and curiosity.” — 维尼鹿 Lu Weini, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976877650-BCLRT63E9L3FHCOD621I/IMG_2807+alba.jpg 2019 “从小我就喜欢笑，在群体中基本都是焦点。长大以后，我总是充当调节气氛那个人。大家都叫我小太阳，我喜欢把积极的正能量和快乐分享给身边的每一个人。 我之所以可以把欢乐带给每一个人是因为我勇敢做自己，我不怕世俗眼光，我也不后悔自己做的每一个决定，我也从来不逃避不退缩，勇往直前。如果你问我什么让我充满力量？我想，就是我自己！” “Since I was a child, I like to laugh, making me always the center of attention. As I grew up, I've always acted as the person who regulates the atmosphere. In fact, everyone calls me "Little Sun." I like to share positive energy and happiness with everyone around me. The reason why I can bring joy to everyone is that I am brave enough to be myself. I am not afraid of the attention. I do not regret any decision I make, ever. I never run away from it and go forward bravely. If you ask me what makes me powerful? I think I make myself powerful! “ — Alba（陈瑗）, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980958172-QNAWHA2YRRM0L8ACTVJM/03+IMG_9558+Grace.jpg 2019 “I'm very lucky to be surrounded by family and friends who are supportive of who I am and how I express myself. They empower me in so many ways, to find my voice, to find strength in myself and to reach for new and exciting goals.” — Grace Huang, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551977343975-DOE9518AZ00582TLPAWT/IMG_3054+elva.jpg 2019 “One day, I asked myself, “Is there more to life than just earning money?” And I considered, “What would I do if money was not the issue?” I could not accept that the purpose of life was just a job for money. I felt depressed by this for a while because I could not find the answers to these questions. Then, I discovered Improv. Improvisational Theater is an art form that emphasizes caring about people, relationships, and feelings. Improv teaches me to live in the moment, to be authentic, to love people and be loved, to embrace a diverse culture, and to understand and celebrate that not everyone is the same. Improv gave me a purpose, and a community – and it gives me the power to be whomever I want to be. “ — Elva Yao, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979300752-DRHOJLKQY8HGO2IR0GE3/IMG_3148+dana.jpg 2019 “Making and upcycling clothes empowers me as a creative outlet. When I alter or make a new piece I usually have someone in mind who I want to give it to, and giving my friends and loved ones a gift made especially for them, that no one else in the world has, brings a lot of meaning into the process.” — Dana, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1552016281740-LWNGY528X3IYOLKMX86M/IMG_1338+irene.jpg 2019 “瑜伽使我在紧张的工作之余放松自我， 从一开始的无法完成到成功做到神猴式（Hanumanasana）， 只要坚持， 时间可以证明一切 Yoga helps me to relax after my work, of course I could not do it in the beginning, but now I can make it - Monkey Pose (Hanumanasana). With persistance, time will prove everything.” — Irene Zhang 张佳玲, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843451269-JJP826B683ANGPG7KTUO/Shanghai_CedinoAlina.jpeg 2019 “I am proud to be Ecuadorian. My strong, hardworking and humble people inspire me everyday to keep going. My beaches, volcanoes, diversity, and culture empower me. I was not lucky to have been born there, I was blessed.” — Alina Cedino, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Shengli https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980414873-MHG5B1H3I9ZYN87RYA39/Shanghai_ZhongVera.jpg 2019 “Video games empower me. Games illustrate an endless stream of creativity and emotion that no other medium can express. Its fast innovation opens a new way to experience and control a world that you can make your own.” — Vera Zhong, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980470274-R28YYU3PLGWVY7DL9ZLZ/Shanghai_GoodmanSabrina.jpg 2019 "My family empowers me. They serve as role models, mentors, and friends in every aspect of my life, and encourage me to stay true to who I am." — Sarah Goodman, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551873919395-UDDBU5N70TBZW65CGNLS/Shanghai_LiCindy.jpg 2019 “Milk tea is really what empowers me throughout the struggles in schoolwork. Behind every essay is a cup of large green milk tea with 50% sugar and less ice.” — Cindy Li, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Rachel Wen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975590225-1B5NU77PL23UVSMYXJJ5/12+IMG_1943+dinna.jpg 2019 “探索人生的可能性。多元真实的世界不断激发着我对人生选择、职业、状态乃至命运的好奇，也引领我为不断刷新的“better me”而努力。” “Exploration of the life possibility. Seeing the beautiful diverse world makes me so curious about people’s different choices of occupation, life state even destiny, which also inspires me to keep pursuing a goal of ”better me ”. — Dinna Sun, Shanghai, China, 2019, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/9429a4d0-4478-4cdb-b8b6-1a8ed25fa0bf/2019.png 2019 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/2018 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646490493173-LAR5S8LAYVK5RMMTJLAE/CelebrateWomen_CarolinaBrunelli_.jpg 2018 “Empoderamento para mim significa me colocar como o sujeito do fazer, de mudar, de intervir. Trabalho com cultura, com produção, colocar a mão na massa, fazer e ver a reação disso no coletivo. Quando o coletivo é impactado de forma positiva pelo o que eu faço isso faz com que eu me sinta bem, forte.” Esse quadro é muito importante na trajetória da minha vida, ganhei de presente quando eu nasci e esteve presente em diversos momentos desde então. O vermelho me dá força. Sempre que olho pra ele fico mais segura, autônoma, me sinto bem é como ver todas as experiências que vivi me dando impulso para o meu fazer.” “For me, empowerment means doing, being an agent of change and intervention. I am a cultural producer, I do practical work and then observe the public’s reaction to it. It feels very good to see the positive impact of my work, it makes me feel strong. This painting is very important to me, it’s a symbol of my life’s trajectory because I received it as a gift when I was born and it has been present in several moments since then. The colour red gives me strength. Everytime I look at it I feel more confident, independent, it is as if I see all of my life experiences pushing me forward.” — Carolina Brunelli, São Paulo, Brazil, 2018, by Rafaela Frankenthal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646490482262-96CUZ8GYEP2S51EZ68R6/Ren%2BMin%2Bcopy.jpg 2018 “我觉得是求知欲。在日常生活中，我只要遇到自己感兴趣了但是却又不知道的事情时，总是会积极的去寻找答案，书、文章、新闻、论坛、甚至公众号，我都会去搜去看，也许最后可能没啥用，也许过段时间就会忘了。但每当我遇到困难时，求知欲会让我觉得心中有底，觉得自己总能找到答案，然后度过难关。 Enthusiasm for learning empowers me. Whenever I encounter things that I am interested in and unfamiliar with, I actively search for answers by many ways such as reading books, articles, news and surfing forums and even WeChat blogs. Sometimes my efforts come to nothing and I even forget them, but whenever there is difficulty, enthusiasm for learning empowers me. I feel that one can always find an answer and tide over if she tries hard.” – 任敏 Min Ren, Chongqing, China, 2018, by Chen Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884833106-AI7K9DR0MPNH5D13WNQ8/Yi+Yuan+Copy.jpg 2018 “什么让我充满力量，我想大概就是纯粹的爱吧。对我而言，可以为爱付出很多很多，可以为了我爱的人去努力。所以，爱可以让我变得强大、柔软，也充满力量。 I think it is probably pure love that empowers me. I can give out many things for love and strive for the one I love. Thus love can make me strong, tender and powerful.” — 易苑 Yuan Yi, Chongqing, China, 2018, by Chen Chen, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885011714-3UT14KTNTTNPZJ9UGJT1/IMG_8135.jpg 2018 “Leggere, imparare, fare, imparare a fare...per governare la mente ed esplorare nuovi spazi di pensiero” “Reading, learning, making, learning how to make...to guide the mind and explore new ways of thinking” — Elisabetta D'Agostino, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884879799-3PI9GQWX6XSGQ9U5BUOO/Zhuang+Qian+Copy.jpg 2018 ““梦境解出经验 用酒解出忘却 旅行解出能源 你应该怎么解” 可能每个人在不同的阶段都有一个属于自己的解法，对于现在的我可能就是旅行了。/ 我喜欢叫它浪荡，听起来更无拘无束、随心所欲，更“侠气”一点。/ 喜欢雪山、星空，喜欢那种翻山越岭后健康的疲惫感；/ 喜欢博物馆、古迹、古建，喜欢做完功课后看到本尊后“一眼千年”的穿越感；/ 喜欢跟着导航走街串巷的寻找当地的小吃；/ 喜欢自己成为南方的“小妹”，北方的“姑娘”；/ 更喜欢为了一个目的地去规划并在旅行中与朋友不断磨合。/ 工作第五年，在外面生活第十年，/ 旅行已经成了我这个白羊座在工作和生活突然被自己过得糟糕时候的出口和节拍器。/ 我希望我的人生没有那么多的得到和失去，而且越来越多的经历。/ 我不想过分得去追求生命的长度，而是体验生命的厚度。/ 我希望旅行一直是我的解药，就算“也是我现在正服下的毒药”。 Dreams come out of experience, memory loss comes out of drinking wine and strength comes out of travel. What comes out of you? / Maybe everyone has one’s own opinion about life, and I think life is about travel. / I prefer the word “drifting”. It sounds more unrestrained, free, and chivalrous. / I like snow-capped mountains, stars, and the healthy feeling of fatigue after tramping over hill and dale ; / I like museums, monuments, ancient buildings and the historical feeling of seeing the real antique after days of hard work; / I like looking for local snacks under the guidance of navigation; / I like to be called “sister” in the south and “girl” in the north; / I like to prepare traveling to a destination and enjoy it with friends in the run-in; / I have worked for 5 years and left home for 10 years. / As a Aries, travel has become a way out and metronome of my terrible life and work on occasion. / I prefer a life with not so much gain and loss, but more and more experiences. / I prefer a deep life to a too long one. /I hope travel could always be my antidote, not a poison.” — 庄倩 Qian Zhuang, Chongqing, China, 2018, by Chen Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885581473-DQTNYU2NJQLH2VTGBJBM/Shanaghai_Francesca.jpg 2018 “Sono più di vent'anni che colleziono civette, le raccolgo tra viaggi e avventure. Queste sono tra le ultime, non sono le mie preferite ma di solito sono le civette a trovare me, non viceversa. Rappresentano confidenza, fiducia, perché sono l'eredità delle mie esperienze, con le persone e i luoghi. Sono il simbolo di tante mie memorie - senza che me le debba ricordare - e rappresentano la consapevolezza, il tentativo in ogni momento di esserci, e non farci.” “I have been collecting owls for more than twenty years, along all my travels and wanders. This is one of last ones, it's not my favorite but usually the owls find myself and not vice-versa. They make me more confident because they are the legacy with my experiences, with places and people, they are the symbols of all my memories - without me having to remember - and they represent awareness, my trying to be myself wherever I am.” — Francesca Koi (魏佛兰), Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646490488196-Z48Q9ULJJFM34HM1DIVR/CelebrateWomen_GiovannaVasto_2.jpg 2018 “Produzir com as minhas próprias mãos, com muito amor, coisas que fazem pessoas sorrirem. Isso me faz sentir empoderada. Doing something with my own hands and with so much love. Something that makes people smile, that is what empowers me.” – Giovanna Vasto, São Paulo, Brazil, 2018, photographed by Rafaela Frankenthal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885631250-LESNW2JIWU0N7R12K6LL/Shanghai_Charlotte.jpg 2018 "Taekwondo is my body’s epic poem. It empowers me to fight past my limitations and reminds me that I have power, grace, and an indomitable spirit." — Charlotte San Juan, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885474245-0XRA0DN3EK8LVHMPVKVR/IMG_8163.jpg 2018 “Il giorno in cui diventai donna, rimasi sconvolta. Mia madre, per farmi capire che avrei dovuto essere felice invece di vergognarmi, decise di regalarmi questo anello. Da allora l’ho sempre portato con me per ricordare ogni giorno che essere donna non è qualcosa di cui avere vergogna, ma un dono meraviglioso.” “The day I became I woman I was shocked. To show me that I should have been happy instead of feeling ashamed, my mother decided to give me this ring. I always wear it ever since, to remind myself every day that being a woman is no shame, but a wonderful gift. “ – Marika Colombo, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885791715-HSSWXL0R0E79NDNE6L16/Shanghai_Chava.jpg 2018 “I am empowered by the women around me, and the collective power that we hold. Over the last year, I have become more aware of just how many smart, strong, and inspiring women there are in my life, and how much I can learn from them. As individuals we have limitations, but together, we can radically change the world for the better. Collective power, socialist feminism, and the women and non-binary folk of the world, are the future.” – Chava Schapira, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887518576-6OHMD7QNQFFRC6Q43J5G/Copy+of+Shanghai_LuoCindy.jpg 2018 “Thanks to inspiring songs written by female artists like Yui and Little Mix, I became more confident of myself and realized that I was someone who wanted to share her laughter with world. I'm still in the middle of writing my own music but when I'm ready to publish it, I hope that the message of my songs can also motivate other women to stay true to themselves.” – Cindy Luo, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885509225-SF3DWNLGSN7TC35E7LZ0/IMG_8175.jpg 2018 “Ho scelto uno zaino come oggetto rappresentativo perchè significa per me viaggio, avventura e soprattutto scoperta. Scoperta dell'altro e di se'. Durante un viaggio, breve o lungo che sia, vicino o lontano, lo zaino si riempie di immagini, ricordi, esperienze, persone, vite, culture e punti di vista diversi che diventano parte di me.” ”I chose a backpack as an object which represents me because to me it means journeys, adventure and most of all discovery. Self-discovery and discovery of the "other". During a journey, short or long, near or far it may be, the backpack is filled with images, memories, experiences, people, lives, cultures and different points of view, all which become a part of me.” — Maria Carolina Serra, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884787145-6A8H428WKXN2WJ6YY0DF/Tan+Hanzhi+Copy.jpg 2018 “我的家庭！我是一个来之不易的生命，从我诞生的那一刻起，父母对我的爱让我感受到了，我到给这个小家庭的意义！随着我的认知成熟，也渐渐发现爱他们也成为了我生命的一部分！他们的存在，是我生活工作奋斗的动力！不管未来会怎样，我都会一如既往的陪伴他们爱他们，用陪伴和爱兑现家庭的意义！ My family empowers me. My birth was not easy. From the moment I was born, I was loved and I felt that my birth brought meaning to this small family. As I grow up, I gradually am aware that loving them becomes a part of me and their existence is a reason for me to fight for my life. No matter what happens in the future, I will always be with them and love them, and this company and love becomes the meaning of family.” — 谈涵之 Hanzhi Tan, Chongqing, China, 2018, by Chen Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885837533-IASQ0M1NUPBZCMCZ454R/Shanghai_ChenChen.jpg 2018 "Jogging. I am surprised that I would say this. But it is true. This is my way to release stress, overcome hardship, and regain energy." — Chen Chen, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885929214-XQ6SMXED33PL5QDHHVQ0/Shanghai_Diko.jpg 2018 “My backpack empowers me. It always reminds me that we have a choice in life. Thinking about that we don’t have to follow the system and can go wherever we want and do whatever we want. It gives me freedom and does not matter what my gender is. I can break out from the expectations. It is also important that my whole life can fit in my backpack, as a minimalist I believe that material possessions are not important in life and we should concentrate more on love and connections. It also reminds me that we are connected to nature and Mother Earth is our friend and we should take care of it. My backpack is also a symbol that my ancestors were nomads and they were always brave, faced challenges, fought hard and together as a community could achieve everything they wanted to. I feel inspired to lift up communities with a collaborative effort.” — Ildiko Kissimon (DiKO), Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885995877-F55F70SNJQB78F9R3IVI/Shanghai_Echo.jpg 2018 “I am empowered by my mother’s contributing to the whole family and her strength and energy as a woman, which have a profound influence on becoming who I am today. Her energy and positivity have impact me to always hope for the best and arm myself with confidence, whereas her sacrifice to the family and building a happy home just so that I can pursue the opportunities I have had, including education, being self-reliant, to make me a better person. These values are priceless, and I consider myself so lucky to have them in my life.” — Echo, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886117222-W4GLEJGEVM2RRKLWL3ND/Shanghai_Fei.jpg 2018 “The Charleston, a frenetic dance epitomized by the sassy and fearless flappers, empowers me. I find it very fun, jazzy, innovative and powerful to advocate the beliefs of equality and liberation through the image of flappers and acting out by dancing. As the new women of 1920s, they won the right to vote, broke free from the restrictions of the Victorian age, had hair chopped to boyish chin length, neglected to clinch their waists, wore flashy stockings, painted their face with bright and bold cosmetics, danced the gleeful Charleston moves, and walked with a new, self-confident swagger. “It's the cat's meow!”” – 徐菲 Xu Fei, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885373172-0PYVD7MOKQ8SADPMRNXL/IMG_8158.jpg 2018 “La mia famiglia è la mia forza. L'amore che ci unisce, il supporto che ci diamo ed il coraggio che condividiamo nell'affrontare la vita e i suoi ostacoli. Ecco quello che mi da forza e che ogni giorno mi spinge ad essere me stessa e ad inseguire i miei sogni.” “My family is my strength. The love between us, the support we always give each other and the courage we share to face life and its obstacles. That's what empowers me and gives me everyday the right motivation to be myself and to chase my dreams.” – Martina Trezzi, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886158691-1T4CNN6RST0FJXELU5DK/Shanghai_FukukoAyama.jpg 2018 “My one line a day journal empowers me because it reminds me of the people, the moments, and the events that I am grateful for everyday. It’s one of the few things I’ve been doing continuously for the last three years and it reminds me that its a marathon, not a sprint. I’m excited to read the journal five years later in 2020 to see what I’ve been able to achieve and anticipate what’s ahead.” — Fukuko Ayama, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983239720-SRR8TA1XDDN7SG2S05MN/Shanghai_LiSiwen.jpg 2018 “My academic accomplishment empowers me. In my family, my relatives look down on me because of my gender. But, because of my academic accomplishment, they have no ground to judge me." — Li Siwen, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886317012-B55Z9TDCOI6GFGONKNRM/Shanghai_Joanna.jpg 2018 “First of all language is a great source of empowerment. It underpins all cultural practices and influences our reality. How you speak to yourself and others is meaningful, I like thinking of how choice of words impacts on reality, opens doors and brings people closer. Secondly, information empowers me. I like to understand what surrounds me and realise I have a choice. Hearing different points of view, discussing possibilities and exposing cognitive biases or just simply beliefs that don’t derive from factual evidence is really useful in reclaiming one’s sense of empowerment. When I was younger I didn’t understand how many prejudices and nonsensical beliefs that we take for granted simply cloud our eyes and tie our hands. Thirdly, my great source of empowerment are my friends. They are a source of inspiration, the wind to the sail which takes me through rough waters back home safely. With them, I can be truly myself, at my best and at my worst, accepting of my imperfect hu(wo)man condition. Finally, music by such bands as Le Tigre or Bikini Kill has been inspiring me for years, energising me and giving me a sense of being a part of a community. These female figures are people I look up to: women who don’t sugarcoat, hide rage behind fake smile, who are not hesitant to call bullshit and stand up for their beliefs. Music brings people together and it’s a powerful medium of conveying ideas and celebrating freedom of (self)expression.” — Joanna Asia de Palma, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886291402-WL1ARYECHUMKOKOBHPL0/Shanghai_JoyceNi.jpg 2018 “My bestie empowers me to become a better one. She encourages me when I suffered the tough moment in my life. She reminds me no matter what there's always someone by my side to support me.” “我最好的朋友使我充满精力成为更好的自我。她在我人生遇到挫折时鼓励我，使我记得不论自己如何改变都有人在我身边支持我!” — Joyce Ni, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886452150-6GQBFA4KICU0YTHV5U5L/Shanghai_MaikhanhNguyen.jpg 2018 “My mom is a Vietnamese woman who had been born a few decades before her time. In middle school, she challenged the notion of supporting my grandmother in the kitchen and went to study Agricultural Science at boarding school. By her late teens, she convinced my grandpa to teach her how to drive the family truck, a privilege only granted to her brother. And when the Vietnam War stuck and she lost her job, she dismissed pressures to settle down, becoming an entrepreneur overnight and the family breadwinner. Story after story, the takeaway remains the same. If I want something, then speak up. If I am unsatisfied, then speak out. I continue to live by this standard every day.” — Maikhanh Nguyen, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886421764-V42PZV35TEU27NB3ZH5X/Shanghai_MaiStanek.jpg 2018 “I’m empowered every time I choose love over fear. Rocky is a representative of the 4 adopted animals my beautiful man and I consider our chosen family. It is from her that I learned unconditional love.” — Mai Stanek, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886567943-8CHS0NBB69G8IJQ4Q1HU/Shanghai_Margarita.jpg 2018 “This lantern guides me through life and shows me where to go. I can see my path only when I'm really honest with myself and I am really aware. This lantern is a representation of the light within me.” — Margarita Lukavenko, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886580282-4P9XT28N3WPEJXZXA7NB/Shanghai_MikaZhang.jpg 2018 “当3年前开始健身，到现在能硬拉起比自己体重更重的杠铃，我变得健康又强壮！无论哪一种健身方式，我都乐于尝试和学习，我们就是需要不断挑战自我，不是吗？这让我感觉身体充满力量，更自信，我知道我什么都能做！” “Since I started working out 3 years ago, I can now deadlift more than my own weight, I have become strong and healthy! I like to try and learn any kind of exercise. We really need to challenge ourselves. It makes me strong and confident because I know that I can do anything!” — Mika Zhang, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885237793-81RKJF32ULKB7WFFPUCL/IMG_8151.jpg 2018 “mi da forza avere desideri, passioni, voglia di fare cose nuove. oggi imparare a fare un arazzo, immaginare i colori, scegliere i materiali, realizzare il disegno; domani.................” “having dreams, passions, the desire of doing new things...this makes me feeling empowered. today it's learning how to wave a tapestry: thinking about the colors, choosing materials, conceving the design; tomorrow...” – Anna Liberatore, Milan, Italy, 2018, Margherita Dametti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886641110-158OBPUVOE7RWRCM2KIF/Shanghai_RoshniDadlani.jpg 2018 “The changes in my body empower me. I have struggled with body dysmorphia my entire life, and as I get older I try to find more and more ways to embrace my body and find empowerment in it” – Roshni Dadlani, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886701436-P4Z0655XVL76EKFCPAUL/Shanghai_StavSinger.jpg 2018 “Working with young female debaters empowers me. Being able to help young women find their voice, and the confidence to stand up and express it loud and clear, gives me hope for the future of our society, makes me feel stronger, and motivates me to work even harder to help pave the way for the female leaders of tomorrow” — Stav Singer, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886750873-GU8TDTZ6I2BI0OQHWVAG/Shanghai_Talia.jpg 2018 “以前我是一个工作狂，早出晚归独来独往。从没有想过有了Baby之后我是如此甘愿享受家庭生活，宝贝给了我生活新力量，从此以后副驾驶上多了一个可以对话的小可爱.” “Once I was a workaholic, always alone and always in the office. I never thought that one day I will enjoy my family life willingly after having a baby. The baby empowers me. Since then there is always an adorable angel by my side who I can share life with.” — Talia Zhang, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551987097406-ATCGI7R8BOK3GOGBNZK5/Singapore_LingAlison.jpg 2018 “My 3 kids, my husband and my good close friends empower me because they make me feel worthy and tell me I am capable. I always feel small and not smart because I didn't go to university like all of them did but they regard me so highly that I feel empowered. I am so grateful because they give me confidence to express my opinions and have a voice.” — Alison Ling, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887192541-8LREB2V94FKUO9SBPZIS/Shanghai_HanJiayu.jpg 2018 "I like to write stuff about my life and I have my own blog for recording my thoughts on some issue in life. What empowers me? I think it must be the pursuit of documenting every impressive and inspiring thing in my life. This can really help me to reflect what is valuable in my limited time." — Han Jiayu, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886833721-196D707ET849O4NBCAVR/Shanghai_Vivian.jpg 2018 “Knowledge and ideas empower me.” — Vivian Xu, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887223387-AIQXB3ARER1RDIWJB3DZ/Shanghai_HoagRisha.jpg 2018 "Self control empowers me. Much of my life is out of my control, but I can control myself. From what I eat to how long I procrastinate, these are the choices I'm free to make every day. While I can't control the events I encounter, I can choose how to react to them. " — Risha Hoag, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886915668-9CB655DO7S2LQNUTK49K/Taipei_Grandma.jpg 2018 “因為脊椎開刀用拐杖用了兩年. 兩年期間我很努力的用我自己的力量來走路. 現在終於可以不用靠拐杖走路.” “After my spinal surgery, I relied on a cane to walk. It’s been two years now, during which I diligently practiced using my own strength to walk. This empowers me because I am now cane free!” — 吳瑞春 Wu Rui Chun, Taipei, Taiwan, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887288712-2ITO3SXWZN9MGXC7BWN3/Shanghai_LuoJanice.jpg 2018 “Being active empowers me. Whether it’s dancing or working out, I am able to feel confident in my own skin and truly be myself. The feeling of moving my body freely and being completely comfortable with myself; that genuinely is the most empowering feeling.” — Janice Luo, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551886976186-2F57OGIQDJ7YRDYGH5UD/Taipei_Jackie.jpg 2018 “Dance empowers me because it's powerful, its sexy, its confident. Its challenging yet rewarding if you're willing to let it teach you, and it brings out raw emotion that makes you feel strong and vulnerable at the same time. It's my most incredible outlet for self love.” — Jackie Chow, Taipei, Taiwan, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551986920982-9SO38GB7IOYFNKRMVEW2/Shanghai_XuPing%28Patty%29.jpg 2018 “Food empowers me because it provides different tastes of life. I feel a lot of responsibilities, wisdom, happiness, love and culture from food. It also keeps my curiosity to the world, encourages me to explore and inspires me to impact!” — Xu Ping (Patty), Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887276505-RAKGIV6GNM5ESDCVZF8X/Shanghai_MucaAnisa.jpg 2018 "Growing up, I used to be silently angry and frustrated at everything and everyone I knew. Punk is my medium through which I express my happiness and sadness and a way to fight for my opinions and my identity. Sex Pistols and David Bowie were the first artists I fell in love with who made me feel at peace with myself and made me fearless against all challenges thrown at me. Punk makes me strong." — Anisa Muca, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975153106-MC2TGO0JZ1XU3SABF9W1/Shanghai_LuoCindy.jpg 2018 “Thanks to inspiring songs written by female artists like Yui and Little Mix, I became more confident of myself and realized that I was someone who wanted to share her laughter with world. I'm still in the middle of writing my own music but when I'm ready to publish it, I hope that the message of my songs can also motivate other women to stay true to themselves.” – Cindy Luo, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887086350-G42PM6FGBEL28KL760SO/Taipei_Sherry.jpg 2018 “我把家經營的很成功. 這讓我跟有力量繼續努力下去.” “I have been successful in raising a good family, and that empowers me and gives me the strength to continue doing so.” — 鄭秀真 Sherry Cheng, Taipei, Taiwan, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887384852-4TL1CGXNJ9YV87W0PTEQ/Shanghai_PelletierMadison.jpg 2018 “Laws empower me, because they create a practical framework for lasting, social change. The law protects everyone equally, so no one can stop us from standing up to injustice and demanding equal rights for all!” — Madison Pelletier, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885303669-T1I2EY12UKBBSPWEXZVS/IMG_8155.jpg 2018 “Novembre 2015, Argentina, 13.000 Km verso Ushuaia: la meta di un viaggio tenuto nel cassetto dei sogni per 10 anni e a cui scelgo di dare vita per iniziare una nuova fase di empowerment. Giorni vissuti sola con me stessa per dare spazio al contatto con la natura, alla celebrazione dei miei desideri, alle mie scelte, in modo consapevole e incondizionato. Per poi tornare a casa con una forza rinnovata data dalla consapevolezza di che donna sono e posso scegliere attivamente di essere ogni giorno.” “November 2015, Argentina, 13.000 Km to Ushuaia: the destination of a trip held in the drawer of dreams for 10 years and that comes to life to start a new phase of empowerment. 15 days lived alone with myself to stay in contact with nature, to celebrate my wishes, to make my choices, in a conscious and unconditional way. Then going home with a renewed strenght given by awareness of which kind of woman I am and I can actively choose to be every day.” – Iris Troiano, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551987030597-M9GHKKVAWVFJ3QSXSUC6/Shanghai_YoungTianTianWedgwood.jpg 2018 "Skype empowers me. I started living away from home at 16, and with a family spread across three continents, 3am Skype calls have become my most regular weekly activity. In this past year we've gone from being a majority-male family of five, to me gaining two new sisters and a doggo. All this means is that there are more and more screens." — Tiantian, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887385499-UN0DQOKSITKJH5HR2VCD/Shanghai_RaileanMarcela.jpg 2018 "The support of my loved ones empower me. The skype logo here stands for all the apps and programs that help me feel the love of my family and friends despite the distance. It doesn't matter how many thousands of kilometers are between us because our love goes to infinity and beyond." — Marcela Railean, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885154961-SM5LKMPF65OJO67OHB1Q/IMG_8146.jpg 2018 “il colore rosso mi dà forza, rosso passione, rosso come la sfumatura di un tramonto che mi fa sentire viva, un tocco di rosso per ricevere energia, per ricordarmi di essere assertiva e determinata, coraggiosa e più sicura di me! red colour empowers me” “red passion red as the nuance of a magic sunset who makes me feel alive, a touch of red to receive energy to remind me to be assertive and determined, courageous and confident!” – Alessandra Merlo, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887209735-HJGTM65QWSTQD8KPYZOF/Zibo_WenHong.jpg 2018 “我对儿子的爱让我感到幸福满满，是我做事的动力源泉。幸福就是看着他长大，幸福是每一个微笑，幸福是每一次陪伴，幸福是每一次聊天。” “My love for my son gives me happiness and empowers me to push through everything I do. Happiness is watching him grow up; happiness is his every smile; happiness is every second we spend together; happiness is every conversation we have.” — 胡文红 Hu Wen Hong, Zibo, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887469445-YZL0NQGDMXA0ZH5R6Z0N/Shanghai_ShetlerCameron.jpg 2018 "I'm empowered and incredibly blessed to be surrounded by some of the most inspiration, successful and wicked-smart female scientists around. In moments of weakness, they never fail to remind me how the world is intricate, spectacular, and will never cease to amaze me. — Cameron Shetler, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887481278-3EBL5MYTAXQVZOSE5A4K/Shanghai_SinghGurkriti.jpg 2018 “My hair empowers me. Its length remains constant, reminding me of my strong roots and diverse yet rock-solid identity. It instigates me to be proud of my values and reinforces my inherent confidence in being a woman.” — Gurkriti Singh, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973487651-UPATIHGG3UPPY2X5WD7J/Taipei_Grandma.jpg 2018 “After my spinal surgery, I relied on a cane to walk. It’s been two years now, during which I diligently practiced using my own strength to walk. This empowers me because I am now cane free!” – 吳瑞春 Wu Rui Chun, Taipei, Taiwan, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982974586-QWP47K87AENLBQYPJFT0/Shanghai_KramerAdeleLiu.jpg 2018 “The first time I picked up a violin I was three years old. It was plastic and I held it backwards. Sixteen years, four violins, twelve orchestras, and dozens of performances later, I am empowered by the music that I make, teach, and spread. There is a subtleness to the force of music. It somehow simultaneously emboldens and soothes, transforms and preserves. Music is a vehicle of ingenuity and compassion. Nothing brings me more joy. “ — Adele Liu Kramer, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551973965944-TSGLX7FRVIIP05PZPZ9S/Shanghai_YeAngelina.jpg 2018 "Yoga empowers me because it always reminds me to seek inner balance even in the most unbalanced situations. When doing yoga, I inhale the future and exhale the past. It is actually a beautiful journey from the self, through the self, and to the self." — Angelina Ye, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975011245-SXHHA0K5FMU5814TJ7ZV/Shanghai_CaiAriana.jpg 2018 “My MacBook empowers me lot. It not only remind me that I have a long way to go in exploring computer science, but also leads me to a world where everything feels exciting to me.” — Ariana Cai, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975012988-DU2SRKSJNF425MTHCV96/Shanghai_ChenKatie.jpg 2018 “I dance in the rain, I dance under the sun. Steps or turns, splits or spins, rejoice or hardships, I shall always tango on!” — Katie Chen, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975112976-MNWGLPZYC2P469D59SB1/Shanghai_LinMonika.JPG 2018 “I find strength in knowing that I am capable of expressing myself through my hands. Through labor, gesture, and touch, they connect me materially and symbolically to my world.” — Monika Lin, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551885055319-FD3GIZTCAOX8VXGRYTPE/IMG_8140.jpg 2018 “Mangiare patatine mi fa sentire empowered! Ciò che mi rende protagonista di questa società è costruire il mio percorso, con ogni singola azione che compio. Anche quando sembra piccolissima. Anche se non è quello che una brava ragazza dovrebbe fare. Per me, women empowerment significa essere una buona persona, soddisfatta e felice; non una brava ragazza.” “I feel empowered by eating chips! What makes me a protagonist of this society is to build up my own path, with every single action I make. Even when it seems so small. Even if it's not what a good girl should do. To me, women empowerment is to be a good, satisfied, happy individual; not a good girl.” – Giulia Pezzato, Milan, Italy, 2018, by Margherita Dametti https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551986793854-WJS74WMT09Y3L2BUDKRN/Shanghai_WuXinwei.jpg 2018 “Sports empowers me, because it gives me confidence and passion towards work and life when I gain progress and overcome obstacles during participation in various sports." – Wu Xinwei, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551986972960-VFCFYVBAO8VPQ97MOM4V/Shanghai_YinMing%E2%80%9DMilly%E2%80%9D.jpg 2018 “I am empowered whenever I am holding a microphone and start singing, that I feel I could bring happiness and positiveness to people's life. Regardless of the judgement on appearance of women, close your eyes and listen to the voice from one's heart.” — Yin Ming “Milly”, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975196305-3IYV02VMHZRIP03YRHNH/Shanghai_ZhaoYan.jpg 2018 “My clothes empower me because they make me realize that human beings can not only be driven by fears and desires. While selecting the perfect clothes or mix-and-match, all my efforts are driven by creativity, which keeps reminding me of who I am and who I wanna be.” - Yan Zhao — Yan Zhao, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976830852-84ECE3HYUP7P0LVJ2GSC/Shanghai_AshlerUebele.JPG 2018 "Punk empowers me. The punk scene these days is ruled by women and queer folks screaming about the hardships involved with such identities. Punk music is a way for me to feel safe in the world, while also making me feel that my anger is justified." — Ashler Uebele, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Daisy Qianyi Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976694260-AU6X7R4QUPESPBYJTBIS/Shanghai_Cecilia.JPG 2018 "My dance shoes empower me because they support me when i dance, extending my strength and giving me the confidence to present myself before others. It also enables me to communicate with others in another way, expressing my emotions through dance movements. It encourages me to explore my potentials and gives me power." — Cecilia Cai, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Daisy Qianyi Chen, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551976989420-KE6Q1PGYEB2T68PODI9E/Shanghai_LaszloLinda.jpg 2018 “My environment empowers me. In China I feel more free and confident than in Hungary. When I’m with my Mom, I suddenly forget how to book an appointment to the doctor, but here I am a completely different person. Away from home reality hits me: I have to work hard for myself, because no one else will.” — Linda Laura László, Shanghai, China, 2018, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551977145643-ACNX9KEWGU8UZMKTV056/Shanghai_LinAmber.jpg 2018 “汉语给我表达的能力和勇气。我从小就喜欢我爸妈写的东西，他们也鼓励我把心中转瞬即逝的感情写下来。现在我在学校用英文写作，但我写的越多， 越是觉得汉语说得出英语说不出的我。所以我开了一个小小的WordPress账号，记录下我真情的五味杂陈，酸甜苦辣，和一些我爱的人。“ “Writing in my mother tongue empowers me. Both of my parents are very good writers, ever since I was little, they have been encouraging me to constantly write down my feelings. Now I write primarily in English, but the more I write, the more I long for using Chinese to speak for myself when English can not. So I kept a little WordPress account in Chinese to document my reaction to the flavors of my life and the people I love. “ — Amber Lin, Shanghai, China, 2018, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551977343729-B1UREEPX98BFA1EH7LV3/Shanghai_WuJune.jpg 2018 “To me, makeup is fun and I truly love it. It empowers me because I can present myself in exactly the way i choose to. Wearing full face makeup doesn’t mean that someone is insecure or superficial. I am comfortable in my own skin, and I also feel good in and out with my makeup on.” — June Wu, Shanghai, China, 2018, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979905242-7Q660YPAEHIW8C4K8R0Y/NewYork_UySerena.jpg 2018 “My skincare empowers me… Yup I said it out loud: my skincare. I know it may come across as “superficial” and really I can’t blame anyone but hear me out for a minute or two. Growing up, I’ve always been insecure about my looks, whether it was my face, my pimples, my scars, my body. Then I discovered the world of skincare and makeup. That day kind of changed me. I began experimenting with different types of masks, moisturizers, cleansers, essences, serums. I would wear sheet masks almost daily and even on planes. I spent my days surfing online on the latest skincare products and trends. Getting deeper into skincare made me much more confident about myself and willing to accept myself for who I am. I still have those days when I get insecure with myself but skincare has shown me that with the right products we can take charge of our skin and work towards being “our best selves” (though this is highly subjective as everyone has his or her own perception of that and I am not saying mines is the one). Of course, it is not just what is on the outside that counts but also what’s within, which is why I do my best to lead a positive life. That being said, my skincare routine has guided me towards that route and is a tradition I look forward to doing every morning and night.” — Serena Uy, NYC, USA, 2018, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980141621-Q0J23C6GRIBITGD7EPGJ/Hoang+Anh.jpg 2018 “I am seven years-old. I want to be a policewoman when I grow up. I play with girls and boys; to me, they are the same. Oh, look at this dog, his eyes are as big as mine!” — Hoang Anh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2018, by Đặng Thảo Nguyên, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980624719-J68QNGGF1TAHWGWW5VPF/Lan+Nguyen.jpg 2018 “When I was a girl, I dreamt of a happy family with a beloved husband and beautiful children. But life was hard and my marriage of more than twenty years came to an end. Taking care of two young daughters all by myself, I was physically and emotionally devastated. But it was all in the past. These days, my life is beautiful. As I am retired, I have time to do what I love: Travelling with my daughters, playing with our puppy and reading books. I am a family-oriented woman and always will be.” — Lan Nguyen, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 2018, by Đặng Thảo Nguyên, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982366719-4FB814C9SXDIEVANAJGK/Shanghai_MelanieEpstein.jpg 2018 "My childhood was surrounded in music. Nowadays, I pick up a guitar and everything becomes so easy and soft. Playing music makes me capable of doing and feeling anything I want." — Melanie Epstein, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Marisol Gallardo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551884855866-PUJWLFBNA3BR3JCKHALN/Teacher+Xiao.JPG 2018 “从这边看向那边，从那里走来这里，一路走走看看，珍惜每一次遇，珍视每一份缘。用微笑凝望世界，我心温暖！ Looking back and around the world, I cherish every minute of getting together and everyone I’ve met. I keep a watchful eye on the world and face life with a smile, thus my heart feels warm.” — 萧雯波 Wenbo Xiao, Chongqing, China, 2018, by Chen Chen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982378952-9FJ4SD6Y3ZCEY1HTLZ6D/Shanghai_MiraMalmosi.jpg 2018 "The greatest inspiration for me are my parents. I take their baby photos with me wherever I go, because, although I obviously did not know them back then, it helps me see better where they started from and where they are now. I have great potential just as they did and it is solely up to me to achieve whatever I want to in life.“ – Mira Malmosi, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Marisol Gallardo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982407962-PEQ0BYKADTTRP9PN8OZS/Shanghai_XinMu.jpg 2018 "Dreams empowers me. I used to think they are just stupid imaginations in bed and little secrets in my dairy. But now what I dreamed of become what I am achieving. It motivates me by telling me how amazing and interesting tomorrow will be." — Xin Mu, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Marisol Gallardo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982523571-EVQVUJFZ4KJS4QU2QTYC/Shanghai_BiVivian+copy.jpg 2018 “Books offer me the chance to see different worlds that I cannot experience in person. It also empowers me to not give up pursuing new dreams and exploring unknown places and life at any time.” – Bi Wei (Vivian), Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982523570-3SYUL39J3NG0A4HHT4DM/Shanghai_ChenVivian.jpg 2018 "My family, especially my son empowers me. All my annoyance will vanish at the very moment I see him with a big smile on his chubby face." – Vivian Chen, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551887142976-48GDPOX8XVZPVCSS05OT/Zibo_HilaryShi.jpg 2018 “My family empowers me most. Even though this is a typical Chinese answer, my family is not like other typical Chinese families. Instead of making decisions for me, they would usually talk to me and ask me about my opinions.This makes me feel that they would always support me for no reasons. The photo I was holding in my hands was taken in a park near my home at least 20 years ago. Besides me myself, my mom, my grandparents, my aunt, and my uncle are also in this photo.(My dad was taking the photo for us, so he’s not in this photo.) Although the park is no longer there after such a long time, I know my family will always be there for me.” “在我的生活里，我的家人给了我最多的力量。也许这个答案听起来带有浓重的中国特色，但是我的家人却与其他典型的中国家庭有所不同。他们从不会代替我做任何决定，而是会万事选择与我商量，以我的意见为主，这让我觉得似乎无论我做什么他们都是百分百支持我的。我手里拿着的是20余年前拍摄于我家附近公园的一张照片。照片里除了我自己以外，还有我的妈妈，姥姥姥爷和小姨舅舅。（因为我的爸爸在给我们拍照，所以他并没有出现在这张照片里。）二十多年过去了，当年的公园可能早已不在，但物非人是，我知道我的家会一直在我的身后。” – Hilary Shi, Zibo, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982640920-5UDPN6Y9EC8ITVI1PN8V/Shanghai_GaoQian.jpg 2018 “My mom empowers me because all her love, her kindness, her self-sacrifice shaped me into who I am now. From the two pictures, it is easy to tell how time treats my mom and how much she sacrifices for me. As I grow from a girl to a young women, I gradually understand how positive and peaceful she is every time when there are difficulties. Gaining a lot of support and power from her, I want to become more like her.” – Gao Qian, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551987030846-D7C13MEJQ7QOCB4YF9RW/Shanghai_YouSong.jpg 2018 “This mug empowers me, because an actress used it in a TV show that I loved to watch. She acted as an outstanding editor who had a positive mindset in her job and her life. So I used the same mug since I started my first job, in order to remind me that I need to have a good attitude towards any issues that I'll meet." – You Song, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982658623-IK5TXBV5B7S4KQJEIEKW/Shanghai_HaoGuo.jpg 2018 “My Daily Mood Calendar empowers me. It always remind me to be positive towards work and life. But most importantly, I've been learning to accept my other mood like listless, angry and puzzled. I truly believe life is going to be FABULOUS!” – Hao Guo, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551989080232-5NDFCS009X8G5N8KKSDR/Shanghai_OlssonSabina.jpg 2018 "I’ve struggled a lot with self-image, especially on the basis of my acne, and for a long time I was ashamed of it. However nowadays, I never wear make-up. I hate the restriction and limits of make-up, I feel most like myself when I’m bare-faced. It’s me, no more and no less. I want to normalize natural skin and show girls that we’re fine without make-up. Additionally, I see my natural face, complete with its blemishes, as a sign of power. I feel powerful in my self-acceptance. In a society where women are supposed to hate themselves, living a fulfilling life despite acne, is like a giant middle finger to society, and I’m proud of that." — Sabina Olsson, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551982806136-SSIGQNRZ6PIRM0YAR8HC/Shanghai_KoyMaryKateHowFee.jpg 2018 "Yoga enlightens me about my body. I am amazed everyday at everything that my body endures. Yoga makes me realise that I am a strong woman. Behind this small person roars a lion. I want to cherish my body and grow stronger with it everyday!" – Mary Kate How Fee Koy, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983099962-IUR921VWYTN5HM7VA2ER/Shanghai_LiddiardOrsolyaShonagh+.jpg 2018 "I've never felt much connection to any items. For me personally, what empowers me are my family and my friends. However spread out around the world they may be, I always know that we are here for each other. That is why I chose this necklace as my empowering item - it reminds me of my family, and how, wherever they may be, they will always hold a special place in my heart." — Orsolya Shonagh Liddiard, by Ng Meizhi, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551972656174-T6SA8X2OC4L5AL7V5H4T/Shanghai_Margarita.jpg 2018 “This lantern guides me through life and shows me where to go. I can see my path only when I'm really honest with myself and I am really aware. This lantern is a representation of the light within me.” — Margarita Lukavenko, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983113736-B7DFUL8B2UPA4D714Q12/Shanghai_LiLinlin.jpg 2018 “I am empowered by the volunteer organization Buck-I-Serv. I have participated many volunteer programs through Buck-I-Serv when I was in college. It help me realize how much I don't know about poverty, social justice. It gave me a chance to make a difference, to see the world from different perspective. I was so moved by those warm cards from a bunch of 5-year-old kids who I tutored in Kansas.” – Linlin Li, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983271307-19YZR4THDW6EEZKYW0SW/Shanghai_LiXuan.jpg 2018 “The recent book, "Transforming Patriarchy", which includes my contribution, is empowering not only because it gives space for my own academic voice but also because it represents a large and growing international scholarly community whose work jointly documents the transformations of patriarchal traditions in Chinese societies. It makes me feel good to know of such a community and to be part of it." – Li Xuan, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983343176-W1XBPT7KC7WYR8UT3T0K/Shanghai_LuShelly.jpg 2018 “Music empowers me. It gives me the courage to fight with difficulties. It comforts me when I'm feeling sad. It calms me down when I'm anxious. And it helps me gain a positive view when I'm lost.” – Shelly Lu, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983342872-JCPKIFQ327O5K570C525/Shanghai_MontoyaMaria+copy.jpg 2018 "Writing the narrative of U.S. history empowers me because I get to the tell the complicated and messy story about how our nation was formed and developed into the country we see today with all of its blessings and shortcomings. " – Maria Montoya, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551983424129-O1LPLILJVXZ9OHS31ZKZ/Shanghai_TapascoLeidy.jpg 2018 “Truthfully, what empowers me is my growth. I've come a long way from being someone who used to put on makeup and straighten her hair as a means to cover up my imperfections in an attempt to blend into society's perception of beauty. However, I've become comfortable with these imperfections. Now rather than a form of concealment I use makeup as a means to express myself and I no longer straighten my hair because I've come to love the unruliness of my naturally wavy hair.” — Leidy Tapasco, Shanghai, China, 2018, photo by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551986772760-61FGI0QHK9U7TBVKGDCA/Shanghai_XiaXing+copy.jpg 2018 “Practicing yoga empowers me. It opens a space within me to be in tune with my body and emotions. In that space, I am reminded each day that outside of the social and family roles I have, I am cultivating a garden of peace only for myself. In that garden, I breathe, think and stretch freely and happily.” — Xia Xing, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551986857752-U4S3TCW0D58DDYOWRBA3/Shanghai_XieXiaoqin.jpg 2018 “手机里是我女儿的照片。 她的每一个笑容都让我感到无比的温暖，有一种无以言表的幸福感； 她的每一次成长都给我力量，让我更努力成为更好的自己； 愿我们都不负时光、不负自己，一起成长、自由飞翔！” “It’s my daughter’s photo. Every smile of hers gives me an enormous sense of warmth and happiness; Each moment of her growth gives me strength, inspiring me to be my better self; May we all live up to the times and true self; let us grow together and be free!” – Xie Xiaoqin, Shanghai, China, 2018, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1d01ae3f-6996-4608-b616-113c1543cda3/2018.png 2018 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/2017 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/11c0d383-c68f-45e1-bf63-d61c40cb411f/2017.png 2017 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477270106-P13GBCBABB98OOOQP00Q/8.jpg 2017 “I am empowered by freedom and travel. I am from a small Karen village in Thailand. Most women in my community can not drive and do not own cars. Last week I got my drivers license.” — Noon, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477201720-VYGE2QIB7I615UPN0WIW/IMG_9622_Ashler%2BUbele.jpg 2017 “The women in my life empower me. Ever since I started my transition, I’ve struggled with my gender identity. The ladies that I am close with have helped me feel like the woman that I know I am, even when I am struggling with my own internalized transphobia.” — Ashler Uebele, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840638506-BWH0HG16IOTSNGWUS4BW/Anna+Philip.jpg 2017 "Books with strong female leads are empowering. Books, just as they are, are empowering. The opportunity to read and dream empowers me too. And let's not forget Princess Leia, the strongest, most intelligent, powerful, passionate, kind and caring woman in the fictional world." — Anna Philip, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840417261-QZ6CSGZUE04Q3R524F93/Claire.jpg 2017 “This backpack empowers me because it reminds me to be humble as the world is so big, to be curious as there are so many new adventures and opportunities out there to explore and to not be bothered by all the unnecessary things that can’t fit into a backpack.” — Claire Song, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840423726-XUWRV46DP60ZWZIT9E1R/Allison.jpg 2017 “This ring empowers me. It was given to me after I graduated from high school and reminds me daily that home is never too far away, even though sometimes it can feel that way. I am empowered to try my hardest in everything I do and take huge chances and leaps, because I know that my family and my home are always there for me should I fall. I can count on them to help me get back on my feet, should I ever need it. ” — Allison Chesky, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478744541-ZBWB91M755AG6EKPGCQH/1.jpg 2017 “My red lipstick.” - Nutchakan, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840439905-T3HQ362LWD2YRMY6QRYI/Ellen.jpg 2017 “Memory empowers me in a sense that I believe it's everything happened to me builds who I am, either the happy stories or helpless moments. I printed all these 263 pictures and took them with me across the Pacific, since whenever I feel lost I can derive power from them. For me, the emotional side of women is not our soft spot but the greatest energy station supporting us in becoming a better person.” — Ellen Zhang, New York City, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840451253-LC0YEW5M5PVAVLEE5KM3/Mira.jpg 2017 “Being part of a group empowers me. Whether it's my family, NYU Shanghai or a Doctor Who fandom, I know that I belong and that I am not alone. I believe that being myself and being supported don't have to be mutually exclusive; my empowerment comes from the incredible people around me.” — Mira Malmosi, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840468701-16YR0EN188AWZ8GXZK60/Ola.jpg 2017 "Music created by other women empowers me and helps me to get through the most difficult times. Björk is especially important, she's my symbol of creativity, independence and pure beauty. She’s what girl power stands for to me." — Ola Szalwa, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840464208-8BB0YUI8AQDOTFFMZHCF/Tara.jpg 2017 “Practicing yoga empowers me because it allows me to push the limits of my body and mind. By fatiguing my body, I can clear my mind and anxieties.” — Tara Tate, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478750418-IR81XNJDVUC15EPKC99Z/Angelica.jpg 2017 “Everybody has something to say about women's bodies from how they are clothed to how many people they've been shared with to how much space they occupy to how they are nourished and groomed. I grew up hearing phrases like "don't cut your hair" or "don't sit that way, you're a lady." Existing with this constant input from the outside world can be taxing and it definitely took a toll on me as a teenager. My tattoos are a frequent reminder to myself and others that my body is my own. It exists for me. It is my way of experiencing the world around me. My body is my own, therefore I can do with it what I please. Also, my newest tattoo is a rendering of my grandmother's art which makes me think of home and makes my body feel like home. tldr: I guess this spiel is mostly about taking a metaphoric whack at the patriarchy by loving and embracing my body!” — Angelica Castro-Mendoza, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478755819-O7A8NM3N7JV93PWOT7VD/Anna%25252BRudkevych_London.jpg 2017 "Here is me now and me when I was 3. Thinking about everything that happened between now and then, good and not so good, empowers me. I overcame some challenges; being a victim of sexual assault was the toughest one. Looking back reminds me of how far I've come, and inspires me to live the life I want, without barriers" — Anna Rudkevych, London, England, 2017, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841027751-WIY7Y5GO8TYHR2BCAG1V/Maike.jpg 2017 “I’ve filled over 2,200 pages in a dozen different journals. These journals are the most empowering thing in my life, because they are a tangible record of my experiences, my personal growth, and my ever-changing state of mind. They are living, contextual creations; every time I reread them, I find more overlap, more patterns to better understand myself and the larger narrative of my life by. I love following the ripple effects of tiny, minute interactions I had with people who ended up changing my life, or tracing seven years of momentum back to a single recorded moment. I love that I can uproot alone and move to a city I can’t point to on a map, a city where no one knows me, and years later finally understand why. This is my thirteenth journal: a testimony to resilience, to courageous decisions and enduring friendship, to a life that is big and boundlessly lived. And although sometimes the future looks like a big empty question mark, and the pages are all blank and unwritten, I feel a sense of strong sense of calm. This journal, like all the others, will allow me to view my own life as I have lived it: a beautiful, messy work of art.” — Maike Prewett, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840488240-DBXZQL7SJJQV1RYUF7BW/7.jpg 2017 “My Thai culture empowers me. I am biracial and as a teen ager in Germany I felt like people viewed me as “other” even though I am half German. Now I live in Thailand and I feel empowered by my cultural identity. As soon as other Thais hear that I can speak Thai I feel welcome and accepted.” — Kalina, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840775206-AG987SX96J5DAR0YNGWA/Kalaiyarasi.jpg 2017 "Being an independent woman empowers me. I grew up in a small village in TamilNadu and for me to come to the city for education and work was a huge thing. I am thankful that my parents believed in me and let me choose my path. It is not everyday that a girl child is allowed to take her own decisions. Now I am happy that I am able to work and send money back home for my parents." — Kalaiyarasi, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841029613-6KMLR8R79RYH4SAQNKNC/MeizhiCheat.jpg 2017 “Football or soccer or whatever you want to call makes me feel powerful. I feel so empowered walking onto the field with my team and putting our heart and soul into the game. The game has taught me to never give up and to support each other. Sadly, women in athletics do not get enough recognition and respect. But I believe that we are strong, and we are powerful.” — Meizhi Ng, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477247514-W8PID3VMXZF38G7AON68/3.jpg 2017 “Since I lost my husband 2 years ago, I am a single mother of 3 kids. I feel empowered that I can provide for them. I work as a cook.” — Fasai, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981534350-4153XYL9PRWGCWM5RV7R/IMG_5105+marcele.jpg 2017 “Making things empowers me, because it is the best tool I have to express my ideas, share my experiences, experiments and life style with others. Making things helps me to create statements about social responsibility, and it is the way I have to empower others to create and make their own thing.” — Marcela Godoy, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477258075-GQFSMPJCMRAII3O8F61H/Akshaya%2BRaghu.jpg 2017 "Colours and patterns empower me. It's how they say a picture is worth a thousand words. Every colour, texture, gradient and pattern represents a million emotions at a time. For me, art is a getaway from reality where I can tell my story to everyone!" — Akshaya Raghu, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478788127-J4FQ4Q9R82I6HYXUFZF7/Millie.jpg 2017 "My skills, my knowledge, and my experiences empower me, but since these things aren't tangible... I brought my laptop because I am proud with what I can do with just it and a little Internet access– to express myself and my skills while using it to learn even more, every day. And throughout my most formative experiences, I would not have survived without my access to a computer." — Millie Wong, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478762785-TAVCHX5NF2Z0KB9USY2W/Ida%25252BCommin_London.jpg 2017 "I feel empowered when I read about iconoclast and daring women such as Patti Smith. I am deeply inspired by her free-spirited attitude and her poetic approach to life and arts. In her song Gloria she writes:“My sins, my own, they belong to me" - Patti Smith could not care less about what women "should" or "should not" do and I find this thought very liberating!" — Ida Commin, London, England, 2017, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841066844-1TYOWDVAFRLUXPCXB5NO/Sabrina.jpg 2017 "Creativity empowers me. Whether it's visual art or creative writing or music, the ability to make something entirely to my own specifications and solely to fulfill my own aesthetic preferences creates a sense of pride and satisfaction that few things can parallel." — Sabrina Greene, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840785710-0TBPCLUZ7FG6TX9PJFXB/Meghana+Sumesh.jpg 2017 "The tattoo I got in memory of my late granddad reminds me of a very permanent decision that I made - to let go of the grief. It took over two years and several breakdowns before I got there. Now nothing empowers me more than knowing that he's always going to be a part of me." — Meghana Sumesh, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841010060-8V7JEXKUSEUDW9K6E5LG/Penelope+Banks_London.jpg 2017 "Being active plays a huge role in who I have become. By pushing myself to become the best version of myself I am in control and feel empowered." — Penelope Banks, London, England, 2017, by David Hoffmann, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841074028-7R80CNN2G4KVI4HJ5H5B/ShirZhang.jpg 2017 “A floral T-shirt as a present from my beloved empowers me. It reminds me to be a bright, elegant and positive girl, like those blooming flowers on it.” — Shir Zhang, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840483998-DHZW8JQ65BZ37XHWRYVY/Vivi.jpg 2017 “Rose is like the kind of women I would like to be. It is beautiful, independent and could live in any environment using its thorns to protect itself.” — Xu Baiwei, New York City, USA, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551841085601-OWTGW82Y4QGZX8TUMN13/Yuyan.jpg 2017 “The apple makes me feel home and confident because my hometown is famous for producing fruits, including apple. Beside, the colour of the apple, red makes me feel confident for its aggressiveness.” — Wenhan Dou, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840478046-Q00W67LLA6I0IK8BPCDE/2.jpg 2017 “This box of milk represents my babies. I have 3 children and I can do anything for them. They make me happy and strong.” — Wasana, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477264164-CZGXZYPL8A5CPPEKRIGV/6.jpg 2017 “Being in nature helps ground and empower me. I can't be in nature all the time because I have to work a lot. I keep palo santo wood at my desk and burn it every morning.” — Alexa, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646478768168-H0HAAKN7168UW0KFK1LV/Nikhila%25252BDega_London.jpg 2017 "It is empowering not to feel like I need to straighten my hair every day anymore. I used to have an idea of what I wanted to look like based on those around me or how I thought others would perceive me. Now I feel comfortable enough to just look like me." — Nikkhila Dega, London, England, 2017, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840497133-CZNF8690S71D3225XZY1/9.jpg 2017 “I feel empowered when I pray and when I think about my son. My son is overcoming difficulties that he faces due to his disabilities, but he has many successes too.” — Bow, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477693292-63HOHDYH4FGBCKVK9JLH/maddie.jpg 2017 “This journal is a symbol of my empowerment because for the past 4 years it has been a representation of the things that make me unique and passionate about life: my travel, my writing, and my photos. I started this journal when I graduated high school and made a commitment to only write about the important life events that met me along the road of my travels through the years. No drama, no unnecessary negativity, just the stories that I found and that found me. It's a book of memories and it has inspired me to be unashamed about the fact that I have prioritized exploring this wide world over settling down. It allows me to thrive in my individuality, feel unique in my achievements, and inspired to continue along this wild path.” — Madeline P Farquharson, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477275455-S5DWVYFAE0DQ5AP5RHWD/10.jpg 2017 “My style is an important vehicle for me to consciously represent my range of cultural influences and express myself in defiance of the opinions others put onto my body. My girly rituals are sacred to me. As a woman, the world doesn't allow space for me to be myself freely. I want to create that freedom in my own life and hold space for other women to do the same.” — Kayla Gill, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840993403-0A3HAT1WQBVXKE5F3XN7/Siraj+Unissa.jpg 2017 "My husband passed away 13 years ago and I have been the sole provider of our family since then. To see my children successful fills me with pride. I am empowered in knowing that I was able to get them the right kind of education. All this came with sacrifices and working multiple jobs but it was worth it." — Siraj Unissa, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477252958-G0B9E4C9H3CKVDT7QMA2/4.jpg 2017 “This cloth represents my family and culture. My mother made it by hand when I was a small child. She wove it with a back loom.” — Ray, Mae Wang, Thailand, 2017, by Daughters Rising Daughters Rising is an NGO that empowers at-risk girls through education to end trafficking and exploitation in their communities and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840942180-7H5U7UQJW0NZVFUQ650Z/Vrinda+Rayam.jpg 2017 "I am empowered by my family. They have stood by me through everything, encouraging me at every step. I could not have been the person that I am today without such a strong support system." — Vrinda Rayam, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843212779-A2HEOT1WYE12YOXKKK7X/Alicia.jpg 2017 “Debbie Allen. Zora Neale Hurston. Phylicia Rashad. Toni Morrison. Roberta Flack—examples of powerful, strong, & beautiful black women who empower me to be better than, different than, & more than what society thinks I should be.” — Alicia Michelle Williams, Shanghai, China, 2017, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843268696-XZOWADS3EQ36WMY4CNXN/Maria.jpg 2017 "McD makes me happy. I never turn down a happy meal." — Maria Guo, Shanghai, China, 2017, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843523993-VBHOPBRSJILBD5BSX6IV/amy.jpg 2017 “My smartphone empowers me. It always reminds me the most important people are in other cities or even on the other side of the earth and yet, they're only a screen away from me.” — Amy Zhao, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477319636-C8BWRZIL37O9E2I6JHDA/Roshni%2BRaghavan.jpg 2017 "Origami empowers me. I always carry some paper with me wherever I go. Whether I’ve had a bad day or someone needs cheering up, with just a few folds of my paper, I can turn any frown upside down. Now if that isn’t a superpower, what is?" — Roshni Raghavan, Chennai, India, 2017, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981013528-V0TULZW3P3OZXFMMDEMH/IMG_4353+almaz+zelleke.jpg 2017 “I am empowered by all the women who came before me and opened the doors to the life I'm living now, and by those who continue to work to help others live productive and rewarding lives.” — Almaz Zelleke, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843592729-IX7Y8ACC1338T4X6Q80G/ariel3.jpg 2017 “My hair makes me feel good about myself. It can shut down the world when I need to be alone, and it embraces the world when I want it to.” — Ariel Wang, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551987787299-1H0EM4J5J4SI5T64GBX8/IMG_5289.jpg 2017 “Imagination empowers us because it set our reality free.” — Yiying Lu, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551840844381-67A9EDRYB39VQKJA9YAK/Shuchi+Kapoor.jpg 2017 "Following my heart might not have got me all that I wanted, but it got me to fall and get up - each time building a resilience towards failure and keeping the self intact. When you are one with yourself, you are enough, you are empowered." - Shuchi Kapoor, Chennai, India, 2017, by Shuchi Kapoor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980322832-6E9CEBFVJP4SGM7J20LG/IMG_4029+fei+yang.jpg 2017 “Cultural Awareness empowers me because it helps me to be willing to learn new languages, to enhance my intercultural communication skills, to see the world from different perspectives and most importantly, to help me understand my own identity and bring more excitement to my life.” — Fei Yang, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551978370385-96LENUTTSD0C4XN4EIPX/melody.jpg 2017 “Yoga makes me feel good about myself because it enables me to fully stretch my body and soul. I started it since high school when my friend showed me a video clip and invited me to practice together. I found myself quite flexible with various movements as I practice with that gentle and relaxing music, which add to my confidence in my body and myself. Whenever I show splits or interesting poses in front of my friends, they are amazed and interested in my experience of practicing Yoga. I feel unity and peace from the bottom of my heart every time I immerse myself in the fantastic world of Yoga. Although Yoga is really about individuality and mindfulness, it's absolutely great to pass my love and passion for this sport on to more people around me.” — Melody Yin, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843608431-QCTZWG1DEJKPNXAT1D25/julie.jpg 2017 “Love empowers me. Love for, and from, my family. Love for my country, for my friends, and for myself. I draw strength from this love and feel empowered.” — Julie Flood Hauge, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980815877-H8LMRL1TDBC5KNZH0DEX/IMG_4437+hongxia.jpg 2017 “To my surprise, my latest source of empowerment comes from water - I mean, open and wild water. Having grown up by a pristine river, the Sand River, I however had a deep fear of open and wild water for all those years. Only recently, by watching YouTube tutorial before bedtime and practicing early next morning in the pool, I managed to learn to swim....and start to splash around the ocean. I feel a great sense of renewal and freedom like never before. Water gives life, water shapes rocks...I heard long ago all such amazing powers of water. Now, I can also confide that open and wild water - despite vast and mysterious - finally encourages, enlightens, and empowers me. My dream is to explore the world under water with my own eyes someday, after spending my life on land for well over half a century. “ — Hongxia Liu, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980550890-WGCMLS5Z02MTQU982RUI/IMG_4111_SimoneFrancis.jpg 2017 “I am empowered by my culture. It is the nutrition for the roots of my existence -running deep and nurturing my individual tree of pride, confidence and tenacity; cultivating strength in my collective tree of family, community and love.” — Simone Francis, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843888007-VUYRNSHINLHC6MJ9AUKF/khadija3.jpg 2017 “Born in Al Khobar. From Lahore. Raised in Abu Dhabi. Attended college in Shanghai. Studied away in London, New York and Washington DC. My third culture-ness empowers me.” — Khadija Saeed, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551843914555-OHSVQ9TIPILRVIGR77PR/melody.jpg 2017 “Yoga makes me feel good about myself because it enables me to fully stretch my body and soul. I started it since high school when my friend showed me a video clip and invited me to practice together. I found myself quite flexible with various movements as I practice with that gentle and relaxing music, which add to my confidence in my body and myself. Whenever I show splits or interesting poses in front of my friends, they are amazed and interested in my experience of practicing Yoga. I feel unity and peace from the bottom of my heart every time I immerse myself in the fantastic world of Yoga. Although Yoga is really about individuality and mindfulness, it's absolutely great to pass my love and passion for this sport on to more people around me.” — Melody Yin, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844111427-RG17ULXKE4K7C1WBO766/nicole.jpg 2017 “My hummingbird empowers me because it reminds of the hidden forces out there in the life that I need to discover. It earns me wings to dream of being free of fulfilling my potential and of who I want to be.” — Nicole Shen, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844141657-0PWIR5LSKAG4UFWK6432/plantgirl.jpg 2017 “My passion for green empowers me. Every time when I am down, I will look around and seek something in green, and that makes me entirely free of worry, giving me a hint that everything will be alright.” — Wendy Ma, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844173979-UPH3Q0U0T83S671SCMQI/IMG_0006_Amata.jpg 2017 “My little cousins empower me to be a positive role model. Nothing like having 5 children watching you and asking you what you're doing to keep you accountable and focused.” — Amata Lee, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844208912-QLKIV6PBED0ND1E5KLLE/IMG_0092_Gina2.jpg 2017 “Playing soccer empowers me because soccer is a sport that should never marginalize anyone” — Gina Leipertz, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551975409232-FUXZTWFLW6WRUUI9SFA5/Vivi.jpg 2017 “Rose is like the kind of women I would like to be. It is beautiful, independent and could live in any environment using its thorns to protect itself.” — Xu Baiwei, NYC, USA, 2017, by Cindy Hu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844209505-DPL3QIM83GHPDQ69OQYA/tatiana2.jpg 2017 “Food empowers me, because it has made me proud of my identity. Kids at school would make fun of my Chinese snacks because they looked “gross” and smelled “weird”, and it made me insecure about my ethnicity. As I got older, I realized that your culture is something that should be celebrated, because there is so much beauty in diversity. Food has the ability to tell a story, and its flavors, smells, and looks reflect the rich traditions and heritage behind it.” — Tatiana Bautista, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Dylan Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844238035-3M562RTGF1FCFFK6HAXI/IMG_0290_Jantima.jpg 2017 “My cultural heritage empowers me. This bag was handmade in my mothers village in northeast Thailand. Knowing my family history and where my roots are keep me grounded.” — Jantima Somboonsong, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551844401496-9NI2AGAP4Y9CB8M7R1MZ/IMG_0367_Dyadra2.jpg 2017 “Pretty in Programming - My femininity empowers me, especially in fields, like digital computing, that are usually dominated by men. It's quite often that feminine aesthetics are automatically equated to a lack of skill or knowledge in the profession. I want women in male-dominated fields to feel comfortable with their femininity, or lack thereof. Be cute or uncute. Regardless, of what you prefer to be, just show them what women can do.” — Dyadra Saulsberry, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979704969-8M6L5R9R21O8XXDBEQOS/IMG_0550_Melissa5.jpg 2017 "I am empowered by my scar. It reminds me that even though I can't control what happens to me, there is power in positivity, persistence and loved ones. My scar fades away the stress over the little things by contextualizing my challenges - and I have found happiness in that." — Melissa Louie, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981209061-21QQY5M1UAAMCJYGG3KH/IMG_4692+alyrose+b.jpg 2017 “What empowers me is the ability to create and speak freely with my body. Moving with intention through space and time allows me to know myself as creator, manifest thoughts and feelings into form, and explore, connect, and inspire beyond words. When dancing, I am the paradox and unity of stillness and motion, flexibility and strength, and discipline and self-abandon. I am in awe of this unique and powerful vessel that allows me to experience fully all of life.” — Aly Rose, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981422404-DOAUWXV7Y273LXPJIJEE/IMG_5037+roopa.jpg 2017 “I draw strength from staying socially, politically, and culturally engaged, and from helping others to become engaged. Everyone deserves the chance to know and understand what is going on in the world around them. I see it as my job not only to make sure that I stay awake, but to help open other people's eyes as well.” — Roopa Vasudevan, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551981290057-U2GTCH83RA3L1WILS001/IMG_4942+anna+kendrick.jpg 2017 “Language empowers me because it opens up my world. From the books that transported me as a child, to the poetry, philosophy and language I fell in love with as a student, to my life in Shanghai today, language connects me to new forms of thought and expression. It helps me appreciate beauty, emotion, and humor in the everyday and, most of all, it connects me with people who inspire and enliven me.” — Anna Kendrick, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979650254-C0RIVQQVH1P9QIJ1S8IY/IMG_0691_Sarabi1.jpg 2017 "When I was trying to come up with something that empowers me, I realized no one item made sense by itself. After a while I had an entire pile of items to take photos with, but that was impractical. Looking through the stuff, I realized my empowerment is a combination of my preferences, experiences, and personality. I decided that, for me, empowerment stems from an attitude, not an object." — Sarabi Eventide,Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979744914-AX1WFLSR2IT4YK01NDNN/IMG_9191_Stephanie+Ulan.jpg 2017 “Sports empower me. I discovered volleyball my sophomore year of high school, back when I was more timid and hadn't yet found my own voice. Women are taught to be submissive and quiet, to sometimes make noise but not too much noise. My first varsity coach in high school challenged that, interrupting practice one day because she couldn't believe how timid we were all playing. "The way you guys are playing, I'm worried this is how you operate in your daily lives. Don't do that. Don't let people walk all over you, call your ball and let people know you are there. Make your voice heard and be confident". Volleyball gave me a voice. It taught me that being aggressive wasn't an option; it was a necessity. I am valid and I belong here just as much as the person next to me, and I should never be afraid to show that.” — Stephanie Ulan, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979790182-HQ9HAEEX7IVCK3HWTN8I/IMG_9711_Krista+Young.jpg 2017 “Traveling empowers me because it puts life into perspective for me. Meeting new people and discovering other cultures helps remind me what truly matters in life and helps me stay centered.” — Krista Young, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979820664-7PW5AI041U5P6NPW1URN/IMG_9536_Miki+Xue+Bin+%281%29.jpg 2017 “Guitar carries a simple, happy philosophy - anyone can play songs, sing along, even write songs with it after learning just a few chords. Enjoying myself, and be proud to be happy, simple. That is my power.” — Miki Bin, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979923972-LV2VGSBCH7BI9GZ01GW3/IMG_9804_Naomi+Losman.jpg 2017 “My art supplies empower me because drawing is how I make sense of the world” — Naomi Losman, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979847597-IQBUM9BKCJSO0ZBDIXNQ/IMG_9816_Dana+Meyers.jpg 2017 “My mother's jewelry empowers me. It reminds me that I'll always have family as a support system no matter where I go. But more importantly, it reminds me that I'll always be connected to generations of strong women who smash expectations and can and have achieved anything they put their mind to.” — Dana, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979865608-UABAU7P63VCGADTSCDIM/IMG_9856_Rae+Dehal.jpg 2017 “My curves empower me. Growing up I hated my body. I measured my self worth by the size of my jeans, the numbers on the scale or the ever growing stretch marks on my thighs. Society told me that a fat girl's body should always be considered a “work in progress". My conservative Indian parents told me that women’s bodies are something to be ashamed of and women who show any skin are not “respectable”. Because of this, all my life I’ve tried to make myself small and quiet and take up as little space as possible. I wanted to be unnoticeable. It took me until college to get rid of that mentality and realize that I deserve more than that. I stopped feeling guilty about wanting to eat a second slice of pizza. Or hiding behind baggy clothes. I stopped looking in the mirror and hating everything that I saw and instead now, from time to time, I tell myself "damn, I look good."“ — Rae Dehal, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979895097-TBXF8R579EYNG9WT6BNW/IMG_9883_Roxanne+Roman3.jpg 2017 “Do you know why shoes are the most important piece of clothing? Because shoes take you on the journey and with every pair, you promise yourself more adventures to come. Shoes tell my stories, shoes empower me.” — Roxanne Roman, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980188643-SVYXLD7TPQZ8BVQUXQJ0/IMG_3819+joanna+waley+cohen.jpg 2017 “Reading empowers me by expanding my knowledge and firing my imagination. Writing books gives me the opportunity to empower others by doing the same for them.” — Joanna Waley-Cohen, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979959801-9HKBU3S1U9ZPYHWE7KXY/20170223-IMG_9293.jpg 2017 “Smiling empowers me. When I feel low I go to a mirror and smile. It makes me feel better.” — Daria Khaimenok, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Millie Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551979973765-F7TRHBO07U5NP6RSVLN7/20170223-IMG_9361.jpg 2017 "My Christianity empowers me. It puts me at peace. I also love that my faith calls me to go help others. It wants me to find those in need and help them in any way I can. When I help others, it feels good and I want to keep helping over and over again. I'm always inspired and empowered to be a better person. Love is the core of Christianity - to love God, your neighbors, and yourself - and that love is what makes me empowered." — Ashley Friedland, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Millie Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551980559272-O72NICKLP208MDBDFC6Y/IMG_4249+casey+owens.jpg 2017 “I am empowered in my sense self. In both the tangible and the intangible; I surround myself in my own essence, keeping an inner strength that can't be broken as my foundation and sporting finely tailored feminine ensembles as my expression.” — Casey Owens, Shanghai, China, 2017, by Nicole Chan https://celebratewomen.world/2016 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476913482-REG1D3N5L2WJYHXTXAK8/342A0412.jpg 2016 "Arduino empowers me because it turns my creativity into reality, and because thinking as a maker makes me feel like everything is in my control" — 姚毓夏 (Prudence), Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476918394-OEZLRWJDF4BHT0PEEJTQ/01_chabelly.jpg 2016 “My pajón empowers me because it represents the herstories of my multidimensional Latinidad.” — Chabelly Pacheco, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812378958-A52L0MTXSFNEHH9SK8SM/05_chava.jpg 2016 “My Judaism empowers me. I am comforted by the knowledge that curiosity, justice, and kindness are at the core of my cultural heritage, and having that heritage makes me more secure as I navigate the world around me. Being Jewish means that thousands of years of tradition has guided all of my ancestors, my fellow Jews, and myself, and now it is my chance to carry on that cultural heritage.” — Chava Schapira, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476924079-O81P9TKD9A3MV161NICH/LinnaHa.jpg 2016 “Painting gives me the freedom to creatively express myself without any boundaries. Art is emotional. Art is loud. Art is empowering.” — Linna Ha, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812281369-U2GVY5QZTCZKDA5KZW3C/02_danielle.jpg 2016 “Music makes me more confident because it is energizing. When I am walking down the street and an empowering song comes through on my playlist, I instantly feel like I can accomplish anything. I strut towards my future to the beat blasting through my headphones.” — Danielle Elmers, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812247388-YH5Q15FILD55YZK9VUWK/04_kiki.jpg 2016 “I enjoyed the feeling of fresh air on my face and the wind blowing through my hair. It reminds me of my favorite things - singing and dancing on the stage. I feel free, energetic, happy and confident. It is also a great way to start the day, being fresh and stylish.” — Kiki Shen, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476930450-QM7W01D2JZRVLQTDV48F/Angelica%2BCastro-Mendoza.jpg 2016 “Changing my hair brings me sheer, unadulterated joy. From having long hair, to pixie cutting, to dying my hair ten different colors, I've done it all short of shaving my head(watch out). Not only do I see it as an act of defiance to expectations, but also as an act of self-ownership. It serves as a daily reminder to embrace growth, improvement, and the ever-changing, impermanent nature of life.” — Angelica Maria Castro-Mendoza, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Millicent Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476940785-0F8L3E5NXAOMVRX2DRO5/Defne_%2B2_.jpg 2016 “ Self-reflection empowers me. This is my dream journal . Collecting my dreams is one of the best (and most fun!) ways to collect myself. It helps me be more aware of hopes, fears, sorrows and joys that are hidden within me, within all of us. It is empowering to connect to myself, because it helps me to connect to others, through all these common denominators. Also, celebrating the vastness of the human mind and imagination through dreams... is joy!” — Defne Inhan, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Brian Ho and Millie Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812397723-5DDDTHW56NAXNPICYFAY/06_inez.jpg 2016 “Love empowers me because love arouses my curiosity to discover more about this world and myself. We are all lonely people who need company, understanding and support. Love connects people and allows me to enter into a new world, which is inside others’ heart and is eager to come out. Love makes me realise my own value, as an independent person who deserves to be loved and to love others. It reminds me that there is a whole new world inside me, waiting for me to discover.” — Inez Tong, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812559913-SQJN4685BWB1ZXKQHTKT/07_rachel.jpg 2016 "Education is empowering; but more importantly, learning about other cultures in other parts of the world and being inspired to travel outside of my comfort zone is what pushes me to be unique, brave, and fearless. Knowledge and understanding are powerful, and they are what inspire me to be a wonderfully feminine, youthful change maker on a macro level." — Rachel Marie McCave, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812573276-0AB08GTWX9KMRQB93E9X/08_sam.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by my radical feminist politics. Growing up, I never understood why I didn't fit in with the popular concept of "womanhood" in the media and even in the classroom. They were often saturated with images and narratives of middle-class white women portrayed as both the heroines of the feminist movement, as well as the harbingers of the beauty standard in the U.S. (and beyond). In many ways, I felt alienated and ugly without having other women of color represented in the spaces I was constantly exposed to. It wasn't until I started college when I began to study postcolonial feminism--an alternative school of feminist thought that strives to expand the traditional definitions of mainstream feminism to include the intersections of race, class, gender, and sexuality. Writers like bell hooks and activists like Angela Davis and Yuri Kochiyama really opened me to a new world of radical self-love and empowerment. I began to contextualize the pain I grew up with and learned how to finally respect myself as an Asian American woman. As an aspiring educator and media producer, I want to share these messages to widen the meanings of "feminism" and inspire individuals from all backgrounds to know that they're always worthy of strength and love.” — Samantha Seid, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812718421-KYDN5I17G9G7P4PGGW2H/10_elena.jpg 2016 “Remembering my presence in the universe empowers me, and I achieve this by making marks on it. I don’t see it as necessary to connect the empowerment of expression to a physical object, but a notebook—a journal—has personal significance. As a child, I rejected expectations of femininity and associated “journaling” with a feminized version of “writing.” Every journal I ever owned went unmarked. Now I mark over the words of Shakespeare: nothing, including myself, is sacred. It’s a good little ‘fuck you’ to my own internalized misogyny and a nod to my process of overcoming it.” — Elena R Ambrosino, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812922120-2UTKSJ8QS257JUKB8PO8/11_ying.jpg 2016 “Traveling empowers me. I get to meet people with different cultural background, see the history behind the world and learn about human and nature. Traveling also helps me become more open-minded and independent.” — Wang Ying, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812836613-2FC0DPI3SYNEDS9VZHK6/12_madison.jpg 2016 "Movies empower me. Film brings a large community of people together and provides common ground and conversation. I would like to see more representation in the film industry. It's always personally empowering as a young female film student to see a female director out there kicking-ass." — Madison Davis, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551812928666-GSKKJX3ZDHKLR77OCKIP/13_krista.jpg 2016 “My education empowers me because it has exposed me to many incredible opportunities that have shaped and developed who I am, giving me strength and confidence in my voice and ability” — Krista Young, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813059599-3GIYIN7ST3X7HYSOMZ1G/14_grace.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by my identity as a double minority. My identity as an Asian American (represented by the pair of chopsticks) and as a woman (represented by the string of flowers) is what keeps me running the race, a race not for relative progress, but absolute equality. This empowerment is what ceaselessly drives me to pursue my agenda in media communication - to eliminate bias - as well as what sustains the fire in my gut when I write, speak, and breathe.” — Grace Moon, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813091747-EFZSXTGDUXOCB87W3W44/15_christine.jpg 2016 “My creativity empowers me. Art is the deepest connection I have to the world; to create is the ritual, tangible execution of that connection. It is of deep and incredible urgency that we expand our world’s representation of female artists. We must grant women of all backgrounds the space to come alive, to fully connect with themselves and their own stories, to burst wide open with expression. Art is the bridge to connection; the inclusion and celebration of female artists will lead our world to a greater and more empathetic understanding of all women’s experiences. Only with understanding can we pave the path to equality. Since childhood, my grandmother supported me as an artist, gently guiding me through conversations about color, light, life, and the beauty of the natural world. This photo is dedicated to her memory.” — Christine Alexander, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813146049-4817VKCUTGDFZEQ3ZVW8/16_natalie+k.jpg 2016 “Playing flute makes me feel empowered because I know that once I've learned it, it is a skill that NO ONE can take away from me.” — Natalie Kuan, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813270796-Z12XCC83LYIANC7RH4ET/17_Yimin.jpg 2016 “I have many passions, but literature resides in me. It is what I live and breathe through. It saves me in the darkest days, reminds me of my own worth. Even with people around me I can feel so alone, like I don't completely belong, but books take me to different places and different time periods, to people and thoughts that connect with me and validate my experiences. In literature there is no sugarcoating of reality, no moral or immoral, there is no Republican or Democrat, no races, no rich or poor or middle class. There is only stark humanity when you really see it. Literature never divides; it only binds. This is what I believe in. The book I am holding is "The Novel of the Future", by Anais Nin, a bohemian writer. It reflects a lot of my personal worldviews and also hints at my own future, as I hope to publish a novel but probably not any time soon as I haven't experienced enough to publish anything worthwhile. I am also a free spirit and a rebel, because I think my own way and I act the way that I want to. I am constantly trying to better myself, but only on my own terms. I live in my own world and no one else's.” — Yimin Huang, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813353399-4JPJ32VJ9DMFBCCQ00RQ/19_Yanyan.jpg 2016 “The thought of home always empowers me. No matter where we are or what we become, home is always going to be the fundamental root, and is going to stay with us forever.” — Yanyan, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551803459919-98KD53BRX8O5RG9RJJBW/03_edeline.jpg 2016 “My tattoo empowers me. It's helped me be comfortable in my own skin. It's helped me take control and ownership of myself and my body. Even though I'll never be able to actually see it with my own eyes, just knowing it is there makes me stronger--happier.” — Edeline Chen, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813522274-YKWMOZU8VUTB5B2CUX53/20_Malina.jpg 2016 “Traveling empowers me to be a part of the world and to figure out my place. I love getting to know new people, cultures and places. I also recognize my US passport is a privilege. I love bringing my stories and experiences back to my family, and I carry these experiences with me everyday.” — Malina Webb, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813495602-X39R49XFU50GEY3APGZD/21_sherry.jpg 2016 “Perfume empowers me because it makes me feel fresh and elegant. Having my favorite perfume on is like telling myself I'm fabulous and there is no need to change for anyone else just to please them.” — 庄臣 (Sherry), New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813717634-U7T5EI2OCNPRKT3GP850/22_maggie.jpg 2016 “My family empowers me. I wear my great grandmother's garnet ring every day as a reminder of that. Even if life gets really bad, like, so bad that every Krispy Kreme goes out of business, I know that no matter what my family is there for me.” — Maggie Walsh, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813732625-TMCC4NZMOMRMLAMXS0IU/23_erin.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by my voice. My voice is a means of expression, a way to share my unique collection of opinions and beliefs, hopes and dreams, memories and experiences. Whether I’m singing or writing, crafting sentences or making music, my voice allows me to be heard. More importantly, my voice gives me the ability to connect with the world.” — Erin Siu, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813902588-XZMLQH2OUJA3G2CVJYHF/24_nina.jpg 2016 “Curiosity empowers me. Whether it be the innate drive in yourself to question how and why everything has come to be or the initial act of stepping out of your comfort zone to tread into unknown territory, being curious is what propels life forward. The world is so vast that there is always something waiting to be unveiled, upturned, uncovered. From writing down thoughts onto paper or zoning out to music, I am able to learn so much about myself and my emotions. So look up, sit down, and embrace your surroundings to understand who you are. Stay curious to create your own narrative.” — Nina Jang, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813931353-QCU1KMOX5YCVVK7HLTY7/25_amy.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by my parents. I grew up in a household where all people were treated equally and were laughing and following your dreams was encouraged. I learned to live and love in the moment from losing my father at 14, and I learned to be passionate about change from my mother's recent multiple myeloma diagnosis. 'Love' is a word that is used unconditionally with my family, and that empowers me.” — Amy Seidel, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814113424-0PUZR58OTPY13I9RSEKV/26_futaba.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by make-believe because it allows space for possibility and exploration through another's eyes. It engenders empathy, perspective, learning, and play, as well as self-discovery once the mask comes off. Make-believe helps us see the world as it is and how it can be, from the power of our imagination and the freedom of our fantasy.” — Futaba Shioda, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814154480-RV721UNITTVUG7PXPOVI/27_dani.jpg 2016 “Being my own best friend empowers me because I don't want anyone to ever define me. I don't want to be the person that needs people to be okay or feel complete; I love being the person that needs herself. It's not that I don't love my friends or family, it's that I am my own hero, support system, best friend, everything. And I think that we get so lost in trying to get people's approval that we forget to approve of ourselves. And I don't want to forget my worth or to strive for someone's validation; I want to validate myself.” — Dani California, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814319769-3R1AV3OXW5DYVNE621C8/28_stella.jpg 2016 “Theater empowers me because there is something so pure about being present in the moment whether you are an audience member or on stage. "Eclipsed" is a play written, directed, and acted by all women of color and it inspires me because as a person of color myself, there is nothing more gratifying than having your voice heard.” — Stella Kang, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814313236-7JUHSNKRBDJ09IE6DFQ8/29_qinrui.jpg 2016 “Studying science makes me happy. We all stand naked and humble and equal in front of the palace of truth.” — Qinrui Chen, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814509309-JRNHUWL7XE5HUMAMA9EM/30_natalie+s.jpg 2016 “The most empowering thing that I've ever learned to do is stop disassociating beauty from intelligence. I've had a long history of men either telling me to keep quiet, or that they're surprised when they find out how smart I am. In fact, the first time I experienced romantic heart break was when my first boyfriend told me that I should stop talking about wanting to be president, to help women, to change the world. After that I just got so used to having to fight for my status in the classroom and to be recognized for my mental capacity, that I could never conceive of my mind and my body ever being one entity. My mind is empowering, my body is empowered, and I am complete.” — Natalie Soloperto, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814502549-RQC6OMXHQ1TCX2VSI2JV/31_yuting.jpg 2016 “Learning a new language empowers me because it pushes me out of my comfort zone and shows me an inspiring world.” — Gong Yuting, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814697433-LE4KHWEDDDZZXNLUFETO/32_hannah+t.jpg 2016 “I am empowered by writing because it reminds me that I am a story worth sharing. Poetry breaks down any walls of stoicism held during the day, letting people connect over shrieks, smiles, or sobs on the page. Writing allows me to turn overwhelming, intangible feelings to tidy, concrete images, making experiences easier to process and understand. I am empowered to control my narrative, my life.” — Hannah Treasure, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814721249-61NCUTADO562LDOJ0HH9/33_anya.jpg 2016 "Having female authors as assigned reading in class empowers me because it puts the works and voices of females on equal standing with male voices. It's really disturbing to go through multiple classes without reading a single thing written by a woman. It's not as if the other 3.5 billion people on the planet haven't written anything worthwhile on the subject" — Anya Marchenko, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476964474-01MJOVF4VS6OWBWCZTTT/Cindy%2BHu_.jpg 2016 “Photography supports me to become a better human being. I get to see the world from a more subtle and aesthetic perspective with my camera in hand. Being able to capture the beauty of life is just incredibly amazing.” — Cindy Hu, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Milicent Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551815067949-RY6DDBZ97NSSEO6O45MU/Joey+Yang.jpg 2016 “Elegance / Pain / Power” — Jiaying (Joey) Yang, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Milicent Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476971550-QM27SAQ55P7055CKY9VY/Leidy%2BTatiana.jpg 2016 “My empowerment comes from my mother because she has shown me what it is like to persevere through life. After the death of my father, my mom had to take on various burdens while raising both my brother and I. The bunny is a representation of my mother as she gave it to me when I was six years old; it now comes with me wherever I travel as a reminder of her. It is through her efforts and sacrifices that I stand where I am today.” — Leidy T, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551872026979-QFR9JR4V59F99TVXH0L2/Lucy+Riesbeck.jpg 2016 “Working on logic problems and solving puzzles empowers me because it forces me to think from new perspectives. Rooting my way to the end of a logic puzzle brings me one step closer to solving other problems in our world. In my opinion, there's never been a more competitive time to live on this planet, so being quick on your feet to understand the intricacies and complexities of a problem and strategizing your way around it to beat the system is exactly the kind of skill that pushes people to the top.” — Lucille Riesbeck, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476982342-W7MN7SYRP8HX2OA94I0C/Mira%2BMalmosi.jpg 2016 “My rings, and in fact any type of jewellery from my grandparents, empower me. They remind me of all the things they have achieved, and all the love I’ve gotten from them. Their memory does not let me forget my goals in life and that I still have a long way to go. I don’t want to disappoint them. I don’t want to let them down. Everything I do is partially for them.” — Mira Malmosi, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476976364-S60MLWMD2Z559K1NPCXT/Nofar%2BHamry.jpg 2016 “My jewelry empowers me. I received them from different women in my family, who walked in different paths. Having these pieces of them with me reminds me of them and the struggles they faced, and makes me feel confident I can face my own.” — Nofar Hamrany, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Milicent Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476986868-KMR1C7XQHBSHLK3QSDM9/AleksandraLekowska.jpg 2016 “Movement empowers me. With every muscle contracting and each second I push through, I feel stronger both physically and mentally.” — Aleksandra Lekowska, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476991743-727UTOF362YJX5RQPSKK/SaraDoraBruszt.jpg 2016 “Eyeliner empowers me. It makes me feel like a cat and just like cats I am independent and free.” — Sara Dora Bruszt, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477022742-PK6XPZUIWH4ZU29H3D1T/09_hannah%2Bj.jpg 2016 “Lingerie empowers me because it makes me feel confident, and so much of who a person is, and what a person believes herself to be capable of, ties into how one sees herself. I believe there is so much power in being able to look into a mirror and think 'hot damn,' because when I feel like a million bucks, I don't let myself, or anyone else, treat me as anything less.” — Hannah Johnstone, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646476996190-RT72XXF7Z3IABAM3JUVP/LauraLehoczki.jpg 2016 “Except for 'nothing to wear' days my outfits empower me. I love not having to choose between dressy and casual. I can wear 6 inch heels on one day and gym clothes on the next and feel equally good in both.” — Laura Lehoczki, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551813312564-64R9BCCJ8S290HUOEJ45/18_sophia.jpg 2016 “I received my gold necklace for my first communion, I wear it every day to remind me that I have power over my impulses.” — Sophia Noel, NYC, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477006469-61NBLI8P3UZZ2ALJRZ67/OrsolyaShonaghLiddiard.jpg 2016 “This shirt empowers me because of the name of the city printed on it, Budapest. This was the city that made me into the person I am today, due to the family members, friends and experiences that I have and had there.” — Orsolya Shonagh Liddiard, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477002004-2QWD1HQ3WA8MQ004E92E/YiyangShen.jpg 2016 “Cooking empowers me because it gives me passion of sharing happiness with friends through food.” — Yiyang Shen, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477017251-I4TH669G8FGDJS1VENMC/Sam%2BLi_.jpg 2016 “My film camera empowers me. When the light enters the shutter, erodes the silver halides in the film, I can feel the unspeakable power of its beauty.” — Yuqing (Sam) Li, Shanghai, China, 2016, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646477011997-U49S6DQS9G1ORTDRPS0A/YouShuting.jpg 2016 “Smiling makes me feel good about myself, because it is who I am.” — You Shuting, Shanghai, China, 2016, by David Santiano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1551814861900-OFVLO29WTBYFGAUCTA24/34_nicole.jpg 2016 “Dance, photography, and feminism all empower me and are tools that enable me to empower others.” — Nicole Chan, New York City, USA, 2016, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/44606b9f-e7cd-456f-a22f-6d23d88a63ed/2016.png 2016 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/2020 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595915657-LRYUUSJIAQPSLBCS4TWJ/Grace_Celebrate+Women.jpg 2020 "In 2013, I was drugged and raped during the modeling job. My pornographic photographs were published online about 6 months later with my name and contact information. The rapist attempted to sex traffic me. I was ashamed and depressed about what had happened. I stopped dancing and doing everything I loved for the full year after the assault. I discovered the burlesque show on the first anniversary of my assault. I saw it as a sign for me to take what I've lost back. Burlesque empowers me to take back my body, my sexuality, and discover what I love about myself." — Grace, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583611017086-BK8CWLGE93L4LLAG4RAN/Janice+Luo.jpg 2020 “Boxing empowers me. It has given me the ability to come out of my shell, the courage to try new things, and the persistence to work my way towards a stronger body and mind. I feel so much more resilient and supported as a woman in a male dominated sport. Now, I can proudly say that I 'punch like a girl.”” — Janice Luo, New York City, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583601781909-UWXJ3R67F8T026B538AD/mmexport1583593699529.jpg 2020 “You may be wondering why there's a photo of a hand-painted Baby Yoda carrying a tablet. You see, this actually encompasses what empowers me as a woman. Confused? Read on. Hi. My name is Bridgette, and I have been diagnosed as clinically depressed among other things. Were it not for the strong support of my family and loved ones, I would not be here today. The tablets with Baby Yoda are my anti-depressants. I take them because my family empowers me and gives me the will to live. Having the right professional and medical help as well as emotional support for my mental health issues has done wonders for my life and for my passion in art (in fact, I'm the one who hand-painted this miniature sculpture of Baby Yoda!) There are still some dark days in my life but as long as I have family by my side, I gain the courage to fight every single day.” — Bridgette, Manila, The Philippines, 2020, by Bridgette https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583682481769-0UDHN8OWHXDWJ9P8OEZR/Farida.jpg 2020 "I find my inner voice through empowering others. I have a brother who has autism and who loves to sing. I sang as a means to connect with him, and through this connection, and being able to develop my own vocal abilities, I found my own sense of self and means of empowerment." — Farida El-Gueretly, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595410832-H9M2OK7NVRHWBVX7MS2J/Radhika.jpg 2020 "Boxing empowers me. Of late, there's been a lot I've been struggling with, whether it is my anxiety, my career not taking the direction I want it to or my weight gain but the minute I step into the ring, all of that goes out the window. Boxing gives me clarity, it helps me focus and is a platform for me to channel my anxiety and channel my negative emotions to work on myself. It is the only thing that keeps me going right now and I am grateful I found this medium for myself." — Radhika Venkatraman, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602779523-0LLA7XXDW90ZZGAYPOW5/Katie+M.+final.jpg 2020 “Having the ability to create and seek out my curiosities in technology empowers me. As a kid, I remember I never asked for toys such as legos because I wanted to fit in and was too scared to go outside of society gender norms. Now, I'm lucky enough to have turned my interest for problem solving and STEM into a job and a hobby -- working with some of the largest companies as a technology consultant and tinkering with my own 3D printer in my free time.” — Katie Mullen, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583599906057-6BUIB32C8B5KTO5QSIEJ/Kelly.jpeg 2020 “I spent my childhood as my dad's helper building things and fixing things at our house in the mountains. Now that I live in the city in an apartment, my bike tools enable me to step away from the news, my social life, or whatever is going on, and just focus on fixing something tangible. I also rest easy knowing that in just about any emergency I could hop on my bike, pedal my heart out, and get away from it all.” — Kelly, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maggie Walsh https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595053267-8ZVMAMELNUMKDZMRLOLT/Manilette+Ladera.jpg 2020 “I haven't always been the most confident in myself, but throughout the years I've taken more time to get to know and appreciate my true self. I like being weird and dancing in my banana suit when I want to.” — Manilette Ladera, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602767953-545EJOFX2Y1RCCEVYZHY/Amy.jpg 2020 "To me, empowerment means embracing myself and a huge part of me is my upbringing in the Chinese American community. As a Chinese American immigrant, I often find myself in a grey zone: neither Chinese enough nor American enough. I often feel embarrassed by both sides of my identity. Enjoying Chinese cultural activities felt unwelcomed, while enjoying American pastimes with friends felt unnatural. As I have adjusted, I have found comfort and joy in both my identities. In particular, I have discovered my passion for traditional fine arts, such as Chinese dance, Chinese instrumental music, and apparel (especially the qipao). Though these passions are not popular or mainstream, they allow me to embrace and celebrate a big part of my identity as a Chinese American." — Amy (谢妙诗) Xie, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583599906296-CWKE4AYEFD5HJ5SAXHTK/Allison.jpeg 2020 “My armpit hair empowers me because it represents all the ways in which I don't conform to social norms that I find limiting to my individuality, creative freedom, and personhood.” — Allison, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maggie Walsh https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584363298139-529BE46V9YZABIYUP6OR/Celebrate+Women+-+Maya+Wang.jpg 2020 “Makeup empowers me. It's one part self-expression, another part creation. I'm aware that the makeup & beauty industry capitalizes on insecurities and promotes unrealistic beauty standards, as well as being a highly gendered industry. However, I've started exploring ways of creating my own version of beauty using makeup as a medium. Sometimes, I'll do themed makeup and post pictures of my creation as a way to bring awareness to or start a conversation about a topic I care about - which is what I'm doing at this very moment. Drawing on my face feels so ephemeral and intimate, and taking self-portraits of my creation is incredibly empowering. Makeup is the medium that lets me express myself, feel confident in my own skin, and experience the joy of creating.” — Maya Wang, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maya Wang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583596077881-ITBFLV9GNKIQXM4MKCRK/Setareh_Celebrate+Women.jpg 2020 "Working out gives me the chance to have a specific time frame in my day to be completely selfish and only think about me and my body. I learned how to discipline my mind throughout my fitness process. It empowers me to love the body I'm in and take care of it." ورزش به من این اجازه را میدهد که در طول روز، زمان‌ خاصی را فقط به خودم و بدنم اختصاص بدهم. این مسیر نه تنها به سلامتم کمک‌کرده، بلکه باعث شده کنترل بیشتری روی افکار و ذهنم داشته باشم. دوست داشتن جسمی که درونش قرار دارم و تلاش برای نگه داری از اون به من قدرت میدهد. — Setareh, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584363610983-DDQMAKJFW0KUE1FSDDZX/Kerrlene.png 2020 "Afro-Indo-Guyanese-American. My identities empower me. I grew up in New York but never lost connection with my Guyanese roots. My ancestry in Guyana is of African and Indian decent, and my family celebrates aspects of both cultures. I embrace my eclectic heritage. It makes me unique, relatable, and powerful. I am able to see stories from different perspectives and bring people together. That is what diplomacy and leadership is for me, finding areas where we can agree despite our differences. Guyana’s motto is, “One People. One Nation. One Destiny.” I truly believe we are stronger together." — Kerrlene Wills, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1585757190025-FOJ0R02CNAKMNWVCME2G/Irene_IMG_1044+final.jpg 2020 “Something that empowers me is having a child. It empowered me so much. In my Form 1 [US 9th grade], I got pregnant. I was 13. It was my first date to meet this boyfriend, and I got pregnant. I didn’t know until it was after 3 months. I wasn’t sure if I was sick, or something of the sort….. “ Read more — Irene, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko Irene, Esther, Gloria and Tecklar are field officers for a research project in Western Kenya. The research project studies the effects of a massive cash transfer that took place in Kenya in 2015, in which charity GiveDirectly gave over $11 million USD to over 1,000 families in Kenya. To see what effects the money had on the recipient’s lives, field officers are hired to conduct surveys with the recipients. These surveys are often 3 hours long, and the women pictured here travel to villages to conduct multiple surveys a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594800595-CQAZ0DIZ9Y5M6F1OKPB6/Jazmin+Jinnah.jpg 2020 “I’m a 5th grade teacher and an advisor to a group of amazing girls. They are some of the smartest humans I’ve ever met because of the different questions they ask. They think about how racism exists in 2020 and why boys get away with everything while girls are expected to be “perfect.” They empower me to channel my inner 10 year old to question the structures around me.” — Jazmin Jinnah, New York City, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583604591488-91P9BF6XCXP90CZC68HG/Joy+IMG_0619.jpg 2020 “I never expected it. I could have never predicted it but now that I know I can’t stop. I eat bugs for breakfast and I’m on a mission to have you do the same. Since 2016 I’ve been passionately and enthusiastically running Get Buggie a small but mighty food blog where I cook and advocate for insects as sustainable protein. In a world full of doom and gloom I see bugs as a part of our bright and exciting future. Not just because they’re so incredibly good for you (protein, iron, calcium, b12, etc etc) or because they’re so efficient to grow (almost 1000x less water used, less land and less feed) or that they’re genuinely tasty as hell but because it makes damn sense. They eat bugs in the Bible, almost all ancient societies mention bugs as a part of their culinary history, bugs are EVERYWHERE and our bodies were made to eat them, we are monkeys after all. There’s nothing that’s ever fired me up quite like entomophagy does and there likely never will be. So I’m out here asking you to eat what bugs you, with me for the future, for our healthy present, using the ways of the past.” — Joy Nemerson (GetBuggie), Shanghai, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583597844736-2G6NQQCU16CQ8R16IVXB/Wong_Oong+Eng-2.jpg 2020 “My grandchildren empower me. It makes me happy to have filial grandchildren. When they leave, they say “Ah Ma, I’m going out” or when they come back they say “Ah Ma, I’m home”, it makes me happy. This is how I care and this are my true feelings.“ — Wong Oong Eng, Singapore, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594736989-E9JCX0TI0359ZIDIW3RZ/Celeste+Genco+2.jpg 2020 “Christ’s love empowers me. His unconditional mercy and limitless forgiveness inspire me to live each day at my fullest potential and see the goodness in others. It has been almost three years since I have been saved, and I feel blessed to have a growing relationship with Christ. — Celeste Genco, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583643496788-H6DQL505AA3TZSBAERCR/Do_WomenEmpowerment_Becca.jpg 2020 "Exercise and moving my body empowers me. Sports and physical activity makes me feel good, and encourages me to take up space." — Becca, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1585756570367-5WAR0OD4UK6LNOQJBXB2/Gloria_IMG_1028+final+copy.jpg 2020 “It happened when I was about to finish my college, in 2017. I got severe acne. Noticeable pimples, then it formed these scalloids. So my esteem went very low.” Read more — Gloria, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko Irene, Esther, Gloria and Tecklar are field officers for a research project in Western Kenya. The research project studies the effects of a massive cash transfer that took place in Kenya in 2015, in which charity GiveDirectly gave over $11 million USD to over 1,000 families in Kenya. To see what effects the money had on the recipient’s lives, field officers are hired to conduct surveys with the recipients. These surveys are often 3 hours long, and the women pictured here travel to villages to conduct multiple surveys a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594836076-PLLOKOB24WXONAT1AW5J/Joy+Varavithaya.jpg 2020 “I am empowered by all the women in my family who have gone through hardships to get where they are now. They continuously remind me how determined a person can be regardless of the standards that are put on them. The plushie was given to me by my mom and sister when I was a baby. It just serves as a reminder of family.” — Joy Varavithaya, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583610096428-21J7A5BXWXEE2SG32ZJ5/Sarah.jpg 2020 “When I look back, I realize I have been given the chance to be born twice, as Hong Van in Vietnam and as Sarah in the arms of my French parents. It is my family and my identity that empower me, the ability to make the most of the second chance I was given and to honor the choices that have been made for me. Looking back inspires me to always go on and live the life I want.“ — Sarah Polverelli, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594934679-RR0GPAWZ6P2324RRW5MR/Kimberly+Russell.jpg 2020 “What empowers me is my family. And when I say family I mean those related to me and my friends. My grand babies bring me endless joy and I thank god they are in my life. The importance of community is so underrated and when I am able to lean on my loved ones and support them in return I feel strong and confident.” — Kimberly Russell, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583726492693-BY8OLWO3YOERPZU421XQ/DSC09830-Edit.jpg 2020 “Play empowers me. Reminding myself there’s no wrong way to play, it’s helped me navigate uncertainty, playing between my ‘homes’ in North America and Asia, between divergent worlds in my work and in my life. I can be an anxious person, most of the time. But creating a little space for play reminds me of what I can create and what is possible when you flip the script.” — Laura Francois, Toronto, Canada, 2020, Benjamin von Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594681253-5KZ7D4UXOTXQLL87GTUX/Cassie+Ulvick.jpg 2020 “Art empowers me. Or maybe it doesn’t necessarily have to be art, but the act of creating. There’s something about the process of turning an idea into reality that makes you feel like you can do anything.” — Cassie Ulvick, New York City, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583594993503-8BTJO0FQ0FC1J5PH6TMU/Kristi+Ngun.jpg 2020 “Dance makes me more confident because it allows me to express emotions I can’t put into words and it’s a gift from God.” — Kristi Ngun, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583596018150-1PUVADXTSSSC631JFBFD/Katie_CelebrateWomen.jpg 2020 "My story is engraved into my skin - that ink empowers me. Every sacrifice, challenge, and risk I took to travel the world and trust others with the canvas of my body is proof of my journey. It is the collection of me." — Katie, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595133689-O6XEPTQTG2BJXL0ZAR1I/Masami+Russell.jpg 2020 “Tattooing empowers me. It is so special that something I create can be with someone and mean so much to them for so long. I love that I have the opportunity to express myself, earn a living, and simultaneously make people happy through my art.” — Masami Russell, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583601757085-1FOUVQHSG2B6W280OOOO/DSC_2402+anastasia.JPG 2020 “We should all have the freedom to dress and express ourselves as we wish. If you feel empowered by high heels or love wearing them - do it. Feeling like sneakers today - go for it. It’s you who decides.” — Anastasia, Beijng, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1585757820555-0JMZ2EN15IHSK8DZ8UXF/Tecklar+final.jpg 2020 “What empowers me is this book, Judy the Nun…” Read more — Tecklar, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko Irene, Esther, Gloria and Tecklar are field officers for a research project in Western Kenya. The research project studies the effects of a massive cash transfer that took place in Kenya in 2015, in which charity GiveDirectly gave over $11 million USD to over 1,000 families in Kenya. To see what effects the money had on the recipient’s lives, field officers are hired to conduct surveys with the recipients. These surveys are often 3 hours long, and the women pictured here travel to villages to conduct multiple surveys a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583644643879-YZCUOGL8XHXKBRNTIY18/Diamond_edit.jpg 2020 “Just another day that the Lord has kept me Just another day that the Lord has kept me He has kept me from all evil with my mind stayed on him Just another day that the Lord has kept me… The first thing that empowers me is Jesus. He is my muse, he’s everything that I do, breathes life into me daily, motivates me to be the best person that I can be, and through that his infinite love and loving my family and loving others unconditionally. I go a lot of places where I talk to people. I always like giving to people. They always tell me, “You have a gift, keep sharing that love. Keep caring for people,” and it just does my heart good for people to see the good in me. And it isn’t just the good in me, it’s the God in me - which is kinda crazy. Because people who aren’t spiritual people, people who don’t even know Jesus, they still see him in me, they just don’t know what they’re talking about or who they’re talking to. They don’t know that the attributes they see in me here, are really just the attributes of Jesus.” — Diamond Arrington , Champaign, USA, 2020, by Calvin Ro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595189428-WZ9N6PEF3QZRQGHC2L0U/Sofia+Shockman.jpg 2020 “Music empowers me to escape into an alternate outlet full of love and positivity. I can take control and spread the good vibrations with others. When my friends are having a bad day I like to cheer them up and blast some tunes which instantly puts a smile on their face.” — Sofia Shockman, New York City, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595250608-PQD12TL8S4BYQA31NBYX/Sophia+Genco.jpg 2020 “Working on both sides of education empowers me. I am earning my Mechanical Engineering degree at the University of Texas at Arlington and I tutor math and science to high school and college students in my free time. Nothing makes me feel more accomplished than hearing how proud one of my students is about a grade they earned. I hope I always have the opportunity to serve others in this way. With my degree I hope to improve lives and shape the world in a better way. I am so excited to be an example to girls that Engineering is not just for the boys!” — Sophia Gence, Dallas, USA, 2020, by Amy Ernst https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595283810-MNZTJYO0XF6SMPL8HKS5/Akshaya.jpg 2020 "Information empowers me. I rely my abilities on observation and action. Control is really important for me. I like to study people, I like to know how they function, how they respond to actions and situations. This helps me understand different personalities and helps me function better. Knowing more helps me to give as much and the more I am able to read, study and gather, the better it is for me." — Akshaya Raghu, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595325617-EJ8KOTCH31JBKO7FY1JG/Madhusri.jpg 2020 "Different things empower me every day. Productivity and awareness empowers me, having a spirited discourse with someone regarding a cause or an activity empowers me, being around women empowers me, picking out the right ensemble to wear empowers me, making someone laugh empowers me. To summarize, there is no one thing that I’d pin-point empowers me the most. It’s important to have multiple sources to replenish your confidence and I’m grateful I’m aware of what they are to me." — Madhusri Suresh, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595721420-J2HLH29KVE8Z1U3EFZ09/Image2.jpeg 2020 “My children empower me. Naningkamot jd ko sa pastillas para sa akong mga anak. Tungod sa pag-empower nila nako. Ang akong love sa akong mga anak gyud ang naka pa-empower kay tungod sa akong love sa ilaha, I did everything and will do everything in my power para nila.” “My children empower me. I keep working hard for the success of our Pastillas delicacy business for them because they empower me. I did everything and will do everything in my power because I love my children.” — Gwendolyn Baliog Hollanes, Cebu City, The Philippines, 2020, by Vincent Jayvee Caberte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595361393-8WYJMPARKKYR4QS4Z4EZ/Natasha.jpg 2020 "My faith empowers me. I follow Nichiren Buddhism, based out of the Lotus Sutra. It gives me the strength to take responsibility for my situations and it helps me become a better person. The philosophy also encourages one to help other people, which I aim to do as well and this is one of the primary reasons why it empowers me." — Natasha Goenka, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583607224652-71KG5ALG8AISRCYC73QF/Robern.jpg 2020 "Being in front of the camera has a dual effect on me; it brings forth my insecurities on bad days, but it morphs into a source of self-empowerment on better days. I feel empowered more especially when I am naked in front of the camera, when I feel like I am perfectly just where I needed to be. The warm studio lights hitting my bare skin is the cue to embrace my imperfections. The flashing camera lights as signals to dismiss my inner insecurities - one flash at a time." — Robern Padasas, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584363361214-MKFYNJY4ZXZNZS5HRPE4/Screen+Shot+2020-03-16+at+8.55.31+PM.png 2020 “I feel most empowered when I have purpose. I find that through helping others grow, thrive and become their best selves.” — Anna Tenne, Melbourne, Australia, photo by Benjamin von Wong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595448168-SHS2M8PY0E3YKDIUB6CO/Riya.jpg 2020 “Empathy empowers me. Being the younger child, I understand the need to be heard and the feeling of being protected. I always make sure I am available for my friends and family, wherever they may be. It also gives me the positive validation that I am able to be someone's go-to person. It is comforting to know that the other person can lean on you and it makes me feel good that I am there for them." — Riya Rajiv, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583606070910-Q0MXQGULWCBX5FFB0UMN/Chicago_XiKathy.jpg 2020 “I used to love being in pictures. Picking up the camera allowed me to see a new world framed by the authentic and the powerful, as well as the entitled and the hateful. I began shying away from being in front of the camera after realizing that bias and ill intentions could easily twist a picture into anything but the subject’s best intentions. But, I know that with continued hard work, I’ll one day be able take back what I once loved and be a vision that others can count on. And that’s pretty empowering” — Kathy Xi, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583597977918-HXD1AXFU082N8XPMWGL8/Zurrer_Emily-2.jpg 2020 “As a female athlete, you are always pushing through barriers and trying to move the needle towards gender equality in sport. It is empowering to have represented my country in football, but even more empowering to know that we are leaving the game better than we found it for all of the little girls following in our footsteps.” — Emily Zurrer, Shanghai, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583643516956-AAAMM0VCTQEHLUU36V57/Do_WomenEmpowerment_Morgan.jpg 2020 "Being allowed to share my voice empowers me." — Morgan, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595485181-K8OY3S4I1RESP9H4LI0O/Shradha.jpg 2020 "My family empowers me. They always support me and encourage me at every step. They have never treated me like a child and have always taken my opinion on every decision. They have always encouraged me to be independent, responsible and still be grounded to my values. I hope I'm doing this and I make them proud." — Shradha Kataria, Chennai, India, 2020, by Vrinda Rayam https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595881353-ZHHLE3ZDTNL949GM8U4N/Ivy_Celebrate+Women.jpg 2020 "As an inhabitant of planet Earth, I think I have the responsibility to help preserve it's beauty for generations to come. Many species are disappearing as well as nature, right in front of our eyes. I cannot imagine how life will be for the next generations who will be unable to enjoy what we have right now. I want to join others in their efforts to protect our natural wonders. If we collectively work towards minor improvements in our lifestyles, such as eliminating single use plastic, we could make a big impact in this world. The priority should be learning to refuse, reduce, and reuse, with the last resort being recycle. Simply saying no to paper cups, straws, or plastic bags will help a lot. There are always little things that we can do to help. " — Ivy, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583599474445-G4I21FMC07F2QM1TJFD0/Ng_Meixi-3.jpg 2020 “Lands and waters empower me. Walking and storying lands - from riverbanks in Mni Sota and mangrove forests along the coast of Singapura makes me remember my place and responsibilities with mother earth as a Hokkien/Hokchiu woman who grew up across the rivers and mountains of Singapore and Thailand.” — Ng Meixi, Singapore, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583604538750-AOT3DAB6DIYEIEGVLD2D/Elena+IMG_0773b.jpg 2020 "Regaining direction of life empowers me. The freedom to choose for my own life and my pursuit is where my happiness come from. Everyone was born differently with varying limitations, and I believe either breaking or choosing within those limitations, when I get on a path towards where my heart desires, I am empowered. “ — Elena, Shanghai, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583653184521-8JN40QIHSBHYUD4B7UKS/Wong_Risa-2.jpg 2020 “I feel empowered as a theatre practitioner who has the opportunity to use her voice in the work she creates. I chose this red lipstick as a symbol of empowerment because it reminds me of a monologue I wrote about women's choices and how they should not be dictated by what society expects of her. Writing and creating my own work about gender helped me to better understand myself and my views on feminism, and this lipstick symbolizes both my growth as a woman and my work which I hope will continue to empower myself and the women whose voices I seek to accurately represent.” — Risa Wong, Singapore, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583599912480-CZEDQUAK4VD4IC8WG9RK/Yooyeon.jpeg 2020 “I picked up this little hat while traveling from Dakar to London. It was some holiday packaging gimmick, nestled on top of my bottled smoothie, as if the hat kept it warm (which is a very odd thing to do for a smoothie.) It’s reminded me to look out for other people, in ways both big and small. It also brings me back to a time when I never stopped moving and learning— and reminds me to do that every day.” — Yooyeon, New York City, USA, 2020, by Maggie Walsh https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583601435958-I67X7UOE8OX6GEFLSI6R/DSC_2252+zoe.JPG 2020 “My planner empowers me! Having control over my own time and space is a fundamental part of maintaining my agency. Women especially tend to structure our time around others and find difficulty in saying no. Visualizing how I spend my time increases my consciousness over my energy and body, and helps me align my daily activities with larger goals.” — Zoe, Beijng, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583643511348-RLL8DFIH0BBNAC9TIAWZ/Do_WomenEmpowerment_Elise.jpg 2020 "I am empowered by using my voice. Saying what I mean, and meaning what I say, and do it on stage, loudly." — Elise, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583609733316-A1UMMEW10J74HF828BFT/carissa.jpg 2020 “I recognize that I am privileged, as a human being, and as a woman. I have had all the resources I needed at my fingertips, I have been groomed and conditioned to “be someone”, to be a pillar of society if we want to put it nobly. Really, the education, the extracurricular activities, they were just means to an end. We’re supposed to reach for the brass ring, climb up the social ladder and accumulate as much money in our bank account as possible…” Read more — Carissa, Hong Kong, 2020, by Archie Kwong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583601763094-QSAHS4F2DU74MYENZUUK/DSC_2424+tatum.JPG 2020 “My family. It's not conventional, but it is strong, true and humble. These are the values I carry with me wherever I find myself in the world.” — Tatum Joseph, Beijng, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602523722-2MTPNVBBY3VX8SV2PUWU/Emilee+Selected_edit.jpg 2020 "I think female representation is something that really strikes me as empowering. In my workplace, when there are women in leadership or people older than me that can mentor me, then that’s very empowering and lets me feel invested in. Seeing women in tech spaces, or also seeing women succeeding in the music industry or young women who play instruments that women don’t play. When there’s nobody that looks like you doing the thing that you want to do, it makes it a lot harder to see that as possible for you. I feel like I want to do that for people too.” — Emilee Noh, Champaign, USA, 2020, by Calvin Ro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602636100-QBXVM6B0DMXTXIHZLYEH/XiaoDong+Zhang+Celebrate+Women.png 2020 "When I was 7 years old, my father began to record the novels I read. Since then, books have been the source of my empowerment. They have helped me find answers, given me access to the world’s wisdom, taught me limitless possibilities, and inspired me to build a better future. Among the books I have read, The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas had impacted my life greatly. Edmond Dantès was unfairly given a life in prison sentence by his enemies. After he got out of the prison, he punished the people who had done wrong and rewarded those who had done him right. This taught me two lessons. The first is that if everyone could be fair and kind, there would be no injustice and revenge. The second is “patience and hope”. With patience and hope, the Count of Monte Cristo spent his most difficult time in prison, but ultimately ushered into a better life. Life will not always be smooth sailing. Instead, all kinds of setbacks, difficulties will appear in our lives. When I first came to America 34 years ago, I did not know English, have no friends or have any money, but I always had hope and gave myself time to adopt to the changes. I overcome many difficulties and accomplished my goals. I have been teaching in public schools in Chicago for 28 years. Every day, I encourage and empower my students to read and learn to take the good and discard the rest from every story. I am teaching my students the importance of being fair and kind, and I hope we can make this world better for everyone." — Xiaodong Zhang, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584363559201-FMTTHMA1WFYDLEFG0T0V/Sadhvi.jpg 2020 "My grandma came to visit me in my first ever apartment and bought me this little wooden elephant toy. I’d refused to keep any idols of worship, and this was our compromise. Almost a decade and many moves later, this little toy has become a reminder and symbol of my nani, my home, my constants, my ever-changing support systems, my evolving identities. My communities ground me. And empower me. I hope, some day, if they are asked this question, they can say the same for me." — Sadhvi Saran, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583653325628-47KPTZ8QXQIB4UAE66AX/Adeliya.jpg 2020 “A light from within” “Sometimes you feel exhausted. Not just exhausted, but emotionally drained. It might feel like things get out of control, and the whole world has betrayed you… No matter how frustrated you are, clear your mind and take a moment to unwind in peace. Thank yourself/the universe/whatever you believe in for what you have already achieved in life, and remember that not everyone might be fortunate enough to live like you. Look at all the things that you have already been through and reflect on how you succeeded to overcome them. You will then see the inner motivation slowly growing inside of you. That is what I would call “a light from within”, and that is what empowers me and moves me forward when nothing else does. “ — Adeliya Rashidova, Geneva, Switzerland, 2020, by David Hoffmann https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602773512-BUQXQDNRYK307IH28IS3/Melissa+G+sitting+down+%281+of+1%29-2_edit.jpg 2020 "My biological and adoptive families empower me. Every day I see these two photos on my bedside table and think about the power of their generosity and kindness. My biological parents decided to give me a life with more opportunity than they could have provided and my adoptive parents have opened their hearts to caring for me for a lifetime." — Melissa Georgiou, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583643500073-N72V04U863C4Z0X2J4CS/Do_WomenEmpowerment_Cristina.jpg 2020 "The people I surround myself with empower me. The morals that I've grown up with: hard work, helping the people close to you, to fight for hell for what you want. Stuff like that." — Christina, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583609826101-94H27I9DE9X70I6U126Z/Alifia.jpg 2020 "My mother empowers me every single day to be as strong, hard working, and as caring as her. My parents moved here over 30 years ago from India to start a new life. They came here for a better future but there was nothing easy about their process. My mother suffered through multiple miscarriages, a strained marriage, was diagnosed with breast cancer, all while still working a blue collar job with terrible hours and yet she never gave up. She has always been my number one fan and I love making her proud because that's how she defines her success. All of her hardships seemed worth it for her when she sees my accomplishments." — Alifia D., Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583603124890-NA1JJCNFQE7MX28XHTQX/Daniela+Standing+up+%281+of+1%29-3.jpg 2020 "Being a racially ambiguous immigrant woman in the US has taught me about myself and conditions of privilege. I am empowered to occupy these spaces that weren’t created for people that look or sound like me. My immigrant experience has challenged me to find my voice and identity. Knowing I left my family, my friends, and my country for a different future reminds me of how strong I am and how incredible allies help me every day to build my sense of belonging. My nationality, my skin color, my accent, are all aspects that constantly reminded me that I was different are my source of pride and courage to continue to break out of the boxes imposed on me." — Daniela Narimatsu Felippe, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Henry Lee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583602501181-SJAZN1FO4XL2RX5A1C54/Gilian_edit.jpg 2020 "I’m empowered by my scars. I’ve accumulated a horde of random scars while living life as a mildly irresponsible klutz: from falling off swings to swinging off bars, from trying to give my cat a bath to scraping my arm across raw metal edges on build projects, from not sticking my cartwheel landing to misjudging my balance in the middle of a martial arts stunt. My scars remind me of all the times I’ve failed, all the times I thought I would never stop bleeding or the pain would never end, all the times I was told that I would never be able to do it, all the times I fell and didn’t think I could get back up. But I did get up. And I did it again and again and again. Eventually I learned to sit on a swing and stopped trying to bathe my cat and finally landed that one stunt. And eventually, those cuts and bumps and bruises healed over. My scars remind me that no matter what life throws my way, I’ve gotten up before and I can get up again." — Gillian Ho, Champaign, USA, 2020, by Calvin Ro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583643515386-BU0BKC8OP8OJK6038NXX/Do_WomenEmpowerment_Junie.jpg 2020 "The people around me support me and challenge me to do things I don't think I can do. I go to like a crazy gym, like a Ninja Warrior Gym. There are a lot of obstacles and stuff. A lot of the times I'll try something and think, 'Hm, I don't think I can do that', but then the people around me will say, 'No, you should do it!' They push me." — Junie, Chicago, USA, 2020, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583595721904-GSC8XCE48TDB6DMBWO0C/Image.jpeg 2020 “My parents are my source of strength and inspiration. Of all the valuable things they have taught me and my siblings, I am most grateful for how they taught us the value of family not just through words but through every action and decision they make.” — Jennifer Sheils Hollanes, Cebu City, The Philippines, 2020, by Vincent Jayvee Caberte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584969502822-I3HNOD1CLAENH6ZXYZ6T/Marcelle.jpg 2020 “I'm empowered by my pendulum , because it is great to feel connected to energies beyond the physical world. It's one of the things in my life that highlight the unknown and allows me to embrace it rather than be in fear. It's a reminder that whenever reality begins to seem so small, there are many other possible perspectives available.” — Marcelle, Shanghai, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1584969471116-81TONTJFZZCES60W83CW/Lau_Theresa.jpg 2020 "I am empowered by knowing my identity as a woman, a daughter, a sister, a teacher and a friend. I've been really blessed to be placed in a city where I can interact with a lot of people from all over the world and a position where I get to work with a lot of teenagers. I'm always aware that people are in my life for a reason and I should make the most out of these relationships. Being able to listen to their stories and hear their experiences in their walks of life brings me so much joy!" — Thersa Lau, Shanghai, 2020, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1585741814018-B0HYKSYDMNUOW19H1LQE/Esther_IMG_1034+final.jpg 2020 “Through my religion, I realized my purpose in life and that’s to be used as a vessel to restore ladies affected by sexual sin especially abortion back to Jesus Christ, which really empowers me a great deal. Living each day knowing that there are ladies I need to reach out to daily and remind them that despite their past mistakes and failures God still loves, cares, and is willing and able to restore them back to Himself and to beautify their lives yes again.” — Esther, Busia, Kenya, 2020, by Anya Marchenko Irene, Esther, Gloria and Tecklar are field officers for a research project in Western Kenya. The research project studies the effects of a massive cash transfer that took place in Kenya in 2015, in which charity GiveDirectly gave over $11 million USD to over 1,000 families in Kenya. To see what effects the money had on the recipient’s lives, field officers are hired to conduct surveys with the recipients. These surveys are often 3 hours long, and the women pictured here travel to villages to conduct multiple surveys a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1583601332697-PAJWC3Z9K33NV6S9XOK9/DSC_2357+shirley.JPG 2020 “All the love and care that I keep getting from my family gives me the endless power in any cases.” — Shirley, Beijng, China, 2020, by Nicole Chan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/2640bb44-7317-4c7c-8f6c-6eb69165a426/2020.png 2020 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/2021 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/fa86c29d-c9fb-46c2-9759-f59189e4c7ed/2021.png 2021 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646485632583-WD8OXF4VPZ9AQFRDHL0F/IMG_0003-Edit.jpg 2021 “Lo que me empodera todos los días son mis hijas.” “What empowers me everyday are my daughters.” — Sarita, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Laura Monsreal Sabido https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646485644552-HO6G4AHDCG8EUI131BL0/Chicago_priciliam_Regina.jpg 2021 “My hands empower me. When I was young my mother told me that feminine hands were soft, smooth, unscathed. Now my hands are rough and calloused, covered in tape and chalk, but I look at them and think, what could be more feminine than the power to pull yourself up?” — Regina Priciliam, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646488172984-ENDXCH6DLIYIS1J0NJUT/CW_Mei%252BGirault.jpg 2021 “What empowers me is my stubbornness. Whatever they say, Whatever they think, Whatever they impose, if I feel I’m right, I won’t sway. I always try to look straight ahead, Face what’s thrown in front of me. What empowers me is my stubbornness And my stubbornness means not giving up.” — Mei Girault, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646485659139-2DV4I7LTNP5L0MXFNCVZ/Laura_2021_CW.jpg 2021 "What empowers me is the ability for me to be creative. Creativity is much more than paint for me. Through creativity I can express myself and share my story. As I grow older I have realized how important it is for me to share my story as a woman of color. Strong women in my life and culture remind me of the importance of sharing my story through art. Lo que me da poder es la capacidad de ser creativa. La creatividad es mucho más que pintura para mí. Con creatividad puedo expresarme y compartir mi historia. A medida que fui creciendo, me di cuenta de lo importante que es para mí compartir mi historia como mujer de color. Las mujeres fuertes en mi vida y mi cultura me recuerdan de la importancia de compartir mi historia y mi voz con mi arte.” — Laura, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Natalie Sroisudaratna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646488200089-0COHER9IR57573Y0KVH8/Tiffany%2BWhittington.jpg 2021 “My identity as a black woman empowers me. The blackness that I see when I look in the mirror, and melanin that shines in the sun like honey, empowers me. The curls and kinks that sprout out of my head like flowers growing from the earth, empowers me. The provocative rap music, R&B soul, and jazz that blares through my speaker, empowers me. “Ghetto” black girls like Cardi B, Meg thee Stallion, and the City girls, empowers me. My hips that are a lil curvier than others, stomach more flabby, empowers me. The delicious, over seasoned, high calorie soul food that I eat with my family at the dinner table, empowers me. My mother tongue known as AAVE, Black English, and Ebonics, empowers me. The poverty stricken community that I was born and raised in, empowers me. The abandoned school at the end of the street, and the boarded up house next door, empowers me. My resilience and ability to navigate a world that oppresses me, empowers me. I am empowered by all of the intersections that shape my identity as a black woman, without them I would not be the strong woman that I am. I am empowered.” — Tiffany Whittington, Taipei, Taiwan, 2021, by Henry Elliott Li https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615172983571-N2YL4DT4XWWDLGHE6CQG/2021_SH_Siyuan2.png 2021 “Being able to understand myself in a deep level as well as love from my family empowers me.” — Siyuan Meng, Shanghai, China, 2021, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646488182962-4SLRSQD4FRHAQEJ0UD5M/Camryn2.jpg 2021 "I like how, as a woman, I can wear a skirt or pants and nobody'll bat an eye. I hope that someday it'll be true for everyone. Gender roles are screwed up." — Camryn, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Amy Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646488215383-ZQAEHPQOZXQCWACYX54G/image-asset.jpg 2021 “I have always been a Creative by nature. I thrive when making things; taking something from one form and turning it into something else. Part of this shines through in the way that I dress, as my love for art is often reflected in my outfits. As a Muslim woman, I have dealt with comments where people have commended me for my bright outfits because it strays from the ‘norm’ of how a Muslim woman should dress. I’m here to say that people should never dictate any woman’s choice of clothing or expression. There is no standard ‘Muslim style’. Black or pink or any other colour are fine. I’m bold, I’m bright, and I’m not changing for anyone but myself.” — Nabeela Zaman, London, Englan, 2021, by Nabeela Zaman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615180285883-PTTKAR4I9F5OK1C7U1VZ/June_2021_CW.jpg 2021 "Growing up, the idea of wearing makeup to make yourself look more attractive to and for men was such a normalized concept — and a heteronormative one at that. I used to apply it to “look pretty” and “fix” my appearance. I hated the way I looked without it, and wouldn’t dare think to leave the house bare-faced. I used makeup as a shield. But the older I grew, the more I realized I could use makeup as a tool, as an art, as a performance. Makeup became my own. Now, I’m not doing it to please anyone else. It helped me gain the confidence I needed to feel more comfortable in my own skin without it. Instead of using it to hide (or worrying about the way I look to men), I use it to transform into different characters, to create living art, to feel good about myself. When I wear makeup, I paint my face for ME. And that’s pretty powerful.” — June, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Natalie Sroisudaratna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615256226139-5TAQV8QUW62GFR3LPC1H/IMG_9935-Edit.jpg 2021 “Being able to paint and feel like I’m embodying someone or a certain style makes me feel confident. It makes me feel like I can do anything and be anything in a different style. Facepaint to me is so versatile but I’ve committed myself to doing things I’m familiar with. I love looking at makeup artists that do facepaint, and I love skulls and characters but that’s not my style. I’ve committed myself to creating Latinx based art on my body, and bring in my culture and things I know into whatever I paint. It makes me feel like I’m putting something out into the world that will make it more diverse. It makes me feel empowered to do something so trendy but in a way where it’s my own. The paint on my skin and the hyes that go with my skin tone make me feel a sense of equity in the art community and it empowers me to accept myself as a canvas and a brown person.” — Guadalupe, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Laura Monsreal Sabido https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615175043821-NKZ38NFK2Q24650ERDTO/2021_SH_yoyo2.png 2021 “Working out empower me. I used to be very lack of confident and really cares about what other people think of me a lot. But ever since I started my first boxing class in 2013, I found my confident. I knew that I can beat anything without fear. We got confused sometimes but as long as we found our confident we will be more clear about who we are and how strong we are." — Yoyo Li, Shanghai, China, 2021, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615175304065-2VUAMST32DLRCL4K7K6D/CW_Loredana+Rigato.jpg 2021 “I love solo-travelling. Being alone in a foreign country, enjoying the silence surrounded by nature or getting to know new people and new cultures makes me feel so fearless and confident about myself. That empowers me the most.” — Loredana Rigato, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615172955362-ECEPHMRN0BIK2600T5O1/2021_SH_Tina.jpg 2021 “การเดินทางช่วยเสริมพลังให้ฉัน การเดินทางไปยังที่ต่างๆ ทำให้ฉันได้พบเจอผู้คน และสถานที่ใหม่ๆ ซึ่งทำให้ฉันได้เรียนรู้วัฒนธรรม ขนบธรรมเนียมประเพณี วิถีชีวิต และทัศนคติของผู้คนในสถานที่นั้นๆ ฉันไม่กลัวที่จะเดินทางคนเดียว เพราะฉันเชื่อว่าในระหว่างทางฉันจะได้พบกับเพื่อนใหม่ ที่พร้อมจะช่วยเหลือและแบ่งบันเรื่องราวของการเดินทางซึ่งกันและกัน ประสบการณ์ชีวิตไม่สามารถหาซื้อได้จากผู้อื่น การเดินทางของคุณเท่านั้นที่จะทำให้คุณได้มันมา” “The journey empowers me. Traveling to many new places gives me opportunities to meet new people which allows me to learn their cultures, traditions, lifestyles, and attitudes. I'm not afraid to travel alone because I believe that I will meet new friends who are willing to help and share the story of their own journey with me. Life experiences can't be bought from others, the only way to acquire it is to take on your own journey. “ — Tina Sawasdee, Shanghai, China, 2021, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615175318127-C7TJ95RE8KNUBS9FIPIX/CW_Lisa+Martelli.jpg 2021 “I feel empowered when I am in love! And when I am surrounded by people I love. When my heart feels good and feels the right vibes, I am good at everything. The magic love does on my ego and will it’s incredible. And if I fail I feel I am not judge or misjudge. I love to be supported by people I trust and with them I share my successes. And when this happens I go full throttle - with my red lipstick on! I am weak when pairing with mean, arrogant, ignorant, bossy people. I feel empowered as I have been educated and schooled. Ignorance keeps human beings in slavery condition. We have to learn history that teaches us not to replicate mistakes. Fair regulations, right institutions and correct politics have to protect me, as a human being, eventually as a woman. I feel empowered as I am free to be myself, to speak, to speak up. I love keeping myself educated and the more I grow old the more I need to nourish my brain, soul and heart with knowledge. I feel empowered when I master knowledge. To know is to master power!” — Lisa Martelli, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646534797514-QGSLBB5ZPN2Z01JMJJM7/Kim_2021_CW.jpg 2021 "Physically challenging myself makes me feel empowered. As a Project Manager, I host conference calls and lead virtual project teams 8 hours per day. Moving and stretching my body after sitting all day keeps me strong mentally and emotionally. My wonderful mother died at 57 and now that I’m beyond that age, I am grateful for everyday good health and the opportunity to engage in activities she never dreamed of. I rock climb, practice yoga, jump rope, lift weights, stair climb, bike, hula hoop and hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon — I love it all and plan to go dog sledding for my 60th birthday next year.” — Kim, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Natalie Sroisudaratna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615175319356-XG701OS29HAJDSFK7KCA/CW_Lara+Lussheimer.jpg 2021 “Through the song "Wild World" by Cat Stevens, which takes me back to my childhood, a place of total and free expression, of play and dance. It empowers me to continue expressing myself as I have been doing.” — Lara Lussheimer, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646534811089-EKM7B32F8CYZTV7U1DYO/Amy%2BDong2.jpg 2021 “When I’m alone with my pen and paper, I am happy. I am happy to have hands to write with. I am happy to have a body that did not lose to anorexia and a mind that is learning to live with anxiety. I am happy to admit I take medication not because I am weak, but because my emotions are strong, which are passionate reminders that I am alive. And what is better than to be alive, being human, being able to feel pain and sadness and everything “bad” only to realize these are the parts that help make us whole? So my journal and my journey remind me to hold my head up high. Stories are powerful. Especially our own.” — Amy Dong, Taipei, Taiwan, 2021, By Henry Elliott Li https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615176581598-FXSRX6EC0SLTTOWW3E2Z/CW_Alice+Maturo.jpg 2021 “People empower me. We are all different and meeting new people really makes me feel strong, powerful, alive. In the same way as a plant absorbing the light and enlarging, human beings need to be contaminated by other people to grow and to enrich themselves.” — Alice Maturo, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615256225283-2EMH2VTWH2PFAONJTOFB/DSC05099-Edit.jpg 2021 “Writing and playing music is a sort of release for me. A process of my emotions. An understanding of what I’m going through. It wasn’t until I put writing and music together that than I realized how much closer I feel toward myself. It empowers me to be able to be vulnerable within my self and within my truth.” “Escribir y tocar música es una especie de lanzamiento para mí. Un proceso de mis emociones. Comprender lo que estoy pasando. No fue hasta que puse la escritura y la música juntos que me di cuenta de lo más cerca que me siento hacia mí mismo. Me permite ser vulnerable a mí mismo y a mi verdad.” — Lizzie, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Laura Monsreal Sabido https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615178382204-YMBONDIEMAU7PDC8BWZ1/2021_TW_Jane.jpg 2021 [INVISIBLE POWER] “Things you can see in this photo: A woman who is smiling. Things you can’t see in this photo: -A woman empowered by how the knowledge, skills and self-confidence participate fully in her development process. -A belly full of happiness and satisfaction. -The heart eye for her family and how supportive they are. -Learning so much and getting all the access to knowledge. -How lucky she is. Using my her way, loving and echoing the world. -The awe of how life is so great. Happiest here.” — Jane Lin 林昱芳, Taipei, Taiwan, 2021, by Jane Lin 林昱芳 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615185245677-3QEDP6I3EQE0HS5UBQP3/CW_Angela+Quintavalle.jpg 2021 “Traveling the world empowers me. I am so grateful to my mom and dad who gave me the chance to start doing the first experiences abroad since I was a young girl. Their trust empowered me. Still today, thanks also to the complicity of my husband, I am lucky enough to continue to see the globe and its beauties, meet people from different cultures, listen to stories, do amazing experiences, try new food. What I bring back enriches me every day.” — Angela Quintavalle, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615177747891-BSY38ZFJPNHBEJP00UEQ/Orianne+Lobjois2.jpg 2021 “Traveling empowers me. Living abroad in 6 different countries and 3 continents has positively changed my worldview and character. In particular, my global travels enabled diverse interactions with people from all types of background, which made me a more receptive, aware, and empathetic social being. I feel I can connect with anyone, which is my superpower.” — Orianne Lobjois, Chicago, USA, by Orianne Lobjois https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646485640122-5ECP5AGGXHWNINZ2Q8ZK/CW_Anna%2BHynowska.jpg 2021 “Painting is something that transports me into a different realm. It’s a place where I’m the one that builds every atom and creates the laws of physics - everything is possible. When I paint I get into a sort of trans - me and the world I’m creating are one - I’m competently immersed into colours. It’s a place where I’m safe and can be fully myself.” — Anna Hynowska, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615178872145-X6NF925FO75MC8PA72X5/Stephanie+Anderson2.jpg 2021 “When I was a little girl, I always used to think how much easier it would be if I were a boy. If I was a boy when we played sports at school, the boys would eagerly accept me on their team. If I was a boy when I would go camping in the summer, I could pee behind a tree instead of having to trudge through the undergrowth to a concealed spot while I squatted down. If I was a boy when I was a bit older and started professional training, I would have been judged on the merit of my performance rather than judged for not being a man. It was not until I entered university that I began to truly appreciate the power of women and the power that I have as a woman. I have been blessed to have had so many strong, successful, and supportive women who have helped me through all aspects of my life. They have showed me that even as a woman I CAN do anything and achieve anything I fight for in this life. It is with their endless love and wisdom on my shoulders that I go into each day trying to live my best life and proud to be a woman.” — Stephanie Anderson, Shanghai, China, 2021, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615178867486-XCQ57TNSVY2DQLB83GYP/Amy+DeCillis2.jpg 2021 “Haena Kim empowers me. We met playing soccer in Shanghai, and she ended up offering me a job. Unlike other people I had worked for, she didn’t care about my age or how many years of work experience I had under my belt. She believed in me and still does. She shows me respect by entrusting me with major projects and creating a work environment where I never have to compare myself to a man or another colleague. She empowers me and all of the women around her.” — Amy DeCillis, Shanghai, China, 2021, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615181833458-MFHORR0TX2D1FYFNE68U/Chicago_Trajano_Lauren.jpg 2021 “Dance empowers me because it allows me to express how I feel and connect emotionally with others.” — Lauren Trajano, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615177752601-3CC11G6JB77IXLYJYR02/Tara+Guo.jpg 2021 “I am empowered every day by the breadth of human compassion and faith. Around my neck, I wear a jade carved into the likeness of 觀音 (guānyīn), the Chinese Bodhisattva of Compassion, Mercy and Kindness, and whose spiritual protection I’ve cherished since I was young. My grandmother took this pendant to be blessed shortly after my birth, as a gentle safeguard against a world still perilous to women. Much to the meaning behind the name 觀音, “observing the sounds and cries of the human world,” I find myself deeply moved by people and the lives that weave into mine.” — Tara Guo, Taipei, Taiwan, 2021, By Henry Elliott Li https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615177777116-MP7D5Q7S48PBG5VWBHQQ/%E8%A9%B9%E7%9E%BF%E7%87%95+Chan+Chu-Yen.jpg 2021 是什麼賦予自己力量？ What empowers me? 是透過兒時的燙傷印記，學會在異樣眼光中處之泰然。 Maybe through my burn scars since childhood, I learned to calm myself under people's stares. 是跟隨感性的發達淚腺，學會潰堤後再度爬起的勇氣。 Maybe through my sensitive tears, I learned to find the courage to stand up again. 是秉持初衷的赤子之心，學會切換負面觀點的幽默。 Maybe through the kid inside of my heart, I learned to find the humor in negativity. 是被推著走的無奈人生，學會珍惜時時刻刻的相遇。 Maybe when life feels helpless, I learned to cherish every single moment. 敬，勇敢前行的自己！ Cheers to my brave self! — 詹瞿燕 Chan Chu-Yen, Taipei, Taiwan, 2021, Henry Elliott Li https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615173037727-8L4KS68MYE7N09ZJUATX/2021_SH_Jen2.png 2021 “Nicoco has been such a positive and supportive presence in my life. Last year, there were several times where I felt extremely isolated and stuck amidst the lockdown in the Philippines. We started a weekly design project where we swapped posters and have weekly calls to talk about our process and just life in general. Those phone calls made me feel heard and less alone. The pandemic has been very difficult and it has hurt some more than others. I hope the strength we find in our relationships help us through each day. In my past entries to Celebrate Women, I’ve mostly highlighted the gratitude I have felt being empowered by the family I was born with. This year, I want to shine a light on the family we choose: friends. Nicoco, you empower me.” — Jennifer Sheils Baliog Hollanes, Shanghai, China, 2021, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615188112173-955ZKSKQMLTVUCQ7Q8SR/CW_Olfa+Farhat2.png 2021 “What motivates me is the ambition to be as instinctively fearless and independent as possible. I learn to be empowered by everything around, even things that bothers me. Well, especially that.” — Olfa Farhat, Treviso, Italy, 2021, by Maximilian Glas and Zhang Zhan at Fabrica Fabrica is a communication research centre based in Treviso, Italy. For more than 25 years, Fabrica has been housing selected young artists and designers to create ideas that are “a vehicle of social change” with curated exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615179178598-HCOO5HE035NSGRNZIVO6/Emerald+-+Celebrate+Women+blank.jpg 2021 “Growing up, I was raised by a strong woman with a survival mindset. While she had grit, there were times that she was running on empty. By emulating her, I almost ran myself into the ground more times than I could count—in elementary school, high school, and throughout college. Frankly, summarizing my trauma is exhausting, let alone living it. Looking back, I've learned that it's not the struggle that's empowering. We need to stop glorifying struggle. I have instead become empowered by self-reflection and intentionally choosing a different way than the women in my family. It is by honoring the grit of my mom, and her mom, and so on, that I am determined to break the curse of generational trauma, by going to therapy, being kind to myself, and finding gratitude for where I am and excitement for where I am going. Feeling my feelings and breaking from toxic tradition is empowering. And so is wearing red lipstick.” — Emerald Callahan, NYC, USA, 2021, virtually by Emma Quong, Las Vegas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615178980908-AIZ2VSA5N1FPZYQDT5I2/Lauren+Hogan2.jpg 2021 “Running empowers me. It has connected me to people from all walks of life, and also allowed me to connect others. I enjoy making running fun so that people want to move- and continue to push their limits. Running is energizing, engaging, healing... I have used it as a community building platform to bring people togther, raise awareness for women's education and get people moving when they didn't think they could. It has allowed me to see the world, healed me from mental health struggles, made me feel free and clear, and no matter where I am, or who I am with, it has always been there for me.” — Lauren Hogan, Shanghai, China, 2021, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1615180785356-9GE2J7VNL87MOT8EWY3B/Claire2.png 2021 "Picking up a paint brush to start a new piece is both the most thrilling and earnest expression of myself. Using magnificent color to form feelings, identity and escapes that connect to others is magic. I've always loved story tellers and finding your medium to tell them, feels like home. I feel inexplicably at home whenever or wherever I create. I choose to make my art sustainable, painting mainly on recycled substrates like wood, because the story of our Earth is most important. Using excess materials from an excessive modern world to make new beauty, is my ode to our struggling planet. Always creating art with love at the forefront.” — Claire, Chicago, USA, 2021, by Natalie Sroisudaratna https://celebratewomen.world/2022 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646746726403-A418TNBGV6DXN8WUCFWR/Clara_IW_2022.jpg 2022 “What empowers me is being a woman scientist. Science has always been dominated by men but there are now many women working in science and we are all trying to help each other to make a better future. No competition but ambition! Ciò che mi dà forza è essere una scienziata. La scienza è sempre stata dominata dagli uomini, ma ora ci sono molte scienziate e stiamo tutte cercando di aiutarci a vicenda per creare un futuro migliore. Nessuna competizione ma ambizione!” — Clara, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471063664-883X5R4YEFR93VYY5UAY/diana2.jpg 2022 “What empowers me… is when I’m able to find my inner self-confidence or having higher self esteem. Which has been a tumultuous relationship for me, and I’m sure many women. It’s something that comes and goes and very hard to always have in work, life, moments of intimacy and especially body. Which is why I chose to strip everything off, to find my inner self-confidence in my most vulnerable state for this shoot. “ — Diana Lin, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646660171386-JTHPDDLC1ITG0K7B5S8T/SueSan_Chen_Final.jpg 2022 “Exploring my gender identity and presentation through fashion empowers me to show up authentically and proudly in both personal and professional environments. I’m more positively embracing my body through experimenting with both masculine and feminine styles. I’m challenging the idea of “professionalism” through adding value by embracing my queer identity instead of trying to hide it. How I dress empowers me to act and feel like the person I aspire to be.” — SueSan Chen, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471059936-24LHFBY2T40L09JGGPTY/anne.jpg 2022 “We live in a time and world where "being cosmopolitan and multicultural" is something everybody strives for. But having grown up in exactly that environment I've always found it hard to connect and feel like I belong. Raised in a country that I felt foreign to, but somehow not foreign enough to fit in with the rest of my family, "home" has always been a strange concept to me. I am a storyteller, a broadcaster by trade - and by heart. By writing down and conveying what I feel or dream up I have created my own home and bonds with the people around me. Being able to express myself through different mediums and languages is a privilege and my superpower.” — Anne Wang, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646660175219-2DU593E6WT6P1YMM7Z2N/Ebe_Ng_Final.jpg 2022 “I’ve always been a bit of a bookworm. But now, in addition to reading, I also write - to argue, to persuade, to advocate. Words empower me and as an attorney, I hope to use that to empower others.” — Ebe Ng, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471100270-TBSTSQ0N16Z0U1IN227E/kim.jpg 2022 “I have always been viewed as the strong one. Growing up as an athlete, my identity and my self-worth were tied to my strength, ability and mental toughness. Looking strong made me believe I always had to be strong, especially in moments when I was not. I ended up closing myself off to others, only allowing them to see the talented athlete on the surface. It took uncomfortable self-growth and the will to expand my identity to truly believe in the power of baring it all. The power of being vulnerable, expressing my emotions and embracing every part of myself. By allowing myself to lean on others, I am able to connect deeply and give and receive love from those around me. Having the courage to be unapologetically human is my definition of strength and what empowers me to move forward. “ — Kim, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646709205932-1VXLWSEBCN11NU19QK6E/Final_Edit.jpg 2022 “I would say the women in my family empower me. Being a women of color back in the day wasn’t easy for them. My grandma moved here from Puerto Rico at age 5 and got pregnant at age 15. She would always work at her father’s restaurant, left school and do her best to be a mom at a young age. She has worked so hard throughout her life and she still stands tall. I hear stories from my mom and my titis how life wasn’t equal for them. They would need to depend on man for money, be a stay at home mom to take care of the children and never have a say. This motivates me to live my life as a women. To take opportunities that are given to me that weren’t given to strong and beautiful women in my family. I hope this will encourage the further generations in my family as well. “ — Kinza Zia, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Laura Monsreal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471121883-9B0295ZYOI17SKBBKJXM/rae2.jpg 2022 “Fearfully and Wonderfully... Dysphoric” Read poem here — Rae, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646474261862-J6G4PCE2CZSDDYEFT10Z/eden3.jpg 2022 “What empowers me… is when I have committed time and space for myself to have fun and be my inner kid. As we grow older, we tend to strip out time for work, for socializing, for family obligations but rarely for ourselves. I feel empowered when I’m in control of that time and space for me to be “me”. “ — Eden Chiang, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646793326619-S5UK53RJ7NRXL8NJMI6L/Junki_IW_2022_08.jpg 2022 “ニューロプラスティシティ(神経可塑性)という概念にとても勇気付けられます。” “I am excited about the concept of neuroplasticity. Let me tell you why….” Read more — Junki, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646746613325-CTIUKS6JDSJDA2TN2PE7/Sandra_IW_2022.jpg 2022 “What empowers me is feeling proud. Knowing how far I’ve come while constantly being humbled by how much I still don’t know and can learn from people and experiences. I am blessed to be surrounded by many who care about me and who want me to succeed. And I will hold true to what others who believed in me taught me “don’t forget to send the elevator back down once you’ve made it” (help others just as you’ve gotten help to get here). ما يقويني هو ألشعور بالفخر. معرفتي بانني تقدمت كثيراً وفي نفس الوقت استمراري في الشعور بالتواضع نتيجة عدم معرفتي لأمور كثيرة واستطاعتي التعلم من مختلف الناس والإختبارات. الله منحني نعمة الحصول على عائلة وأصدقاء يحبونني و يتمنون لي النجاح. وسأحافظ على كلمتي كما علمني اخرون امنوا بي وهو "لا تنسي أن تساعدي الاخرين كما انتي حصلتي على المساعدة." — Sandra, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646746813979-P7D2K1F2HUN42VW24MLX/Lindsey_IW_2022.jpg 2022 "My practice is a constant state of transition. Rather than moving from one pose to the next, I emphasize slowing down and finding stillness within each transition - making the change a posture in itself. In a way, I think life is similar and I try to remind myself of that. As women, we’re pulled in many directions and expected to uphold certain images, roles, and timelines — but there’s beauty in taking your damn time, even if it means not doing it all. You might even shake off some expectations in the negative space." — Lindsey, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471128352-GXQCNGZFPGFR7UY1XKRF/suzy+copy.jpg 2022 “Working out empowers me. It had been part of my gene even before I realized it’s a lifestyle choice, before it was a cool thing to do, and before there were Tumblr or Instagram posts about it. I’m thankful I’ve always been an active kid, which makes my transaction into adulthood and my transplantation into different continents and culture easier. Through different forms of working out, say it running, Muay Thai, Pilates, yoga, CrossFit, I’ve found home away from home, friends who are my second family now. Thanks to working out, I know I will never be alone.” — Suzy Sue, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646660213934-KP0E7U5ZZ73AL3H3VJ8A/Screen+Shot+2022-03-07+at+9.36.29+PM.png 2022 “I'm inspired by mending as an act of radical care. It requires an active acknowledgment of the body's movement, patterns, and daily wear. Existing in a body both queer and non-binary, there's a constant mending of self. Repairing and patching the areas that experience friction or no longer belong, while reinforcing the gaps in a way that leaves the whole more resilient than its original form.” — Miranda Miller, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471142585-OXTG8PKSVS0KTQVU1V8T/winxi+2.jpg 2022 “This is a picture of my Mom. She is a typical Shanghainese woman, bold, tough and proud. No matter how difficult times are she always puts on a brave face.” — Winxi Kan, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646473693253-GBSPFF4BAW2SJHVGRV7O/oh+collective.jpg 2022 “What empowers us… Each other. Finding self-love, confidence that allows for us to truly be ourselves in all aspects of our lives. We are constant reminders to each other that there are women experiencing the same ups and downs #justlikeyou and we should be empowering one another.” — The Oh Collective, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco Diana Lin, Eden Chiang, Winxi Kan, and Simona Xu (not pictured) are the co-founders of The Oh Collective, an intimate wellness brand for women by women. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646473176663-TGXM5S0GT1ZTHUK5VTYG/karen2.jpg 2022 “Love.” — Karen Yang, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/61301cc3-4b77-485b-9c06-190bf14d5534/2022.png 2022 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/2023 daily 0.75 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/09ac02e0-394d-47ea-80d5-11821d23c86c/2023.png 2023 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678159713950-C1UPI5CPWUPICHEHKK6B/MK_IMG_9665.jpeg 2023 “Flour empowers me - it gives me the chance to make and learn, and reminds me that with a little love and patience, we all grow beautifully. With the tip of my fingers, I can whip up anything, and create happy shared moments [Heart] Smell the flours, eat a cake.” — Mary Kate How Fee Koy, Shanghai, China, 2023 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057291724-J7QA2G2GIX6259G37PRA/Capture+One+Catalog0021.jpg 2023 “I’m empowered by music and technology. I enjoyed listening to music and make up my own song ! There’s always a magic touch when it comes to technology! I like to type , make up my own stories and take pictures!” — Hallie Zhao, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678034772842-RIDJZF4RPXXBJPIUNW5F/Jeanie.jpg 2023 “Loving my body empowers me. Growing up, I was told I was too fat, too thick, too muscular, too short. Often, I look in the mirror and shame what I see. But the days I am able to look at my body and love and appreciate the amazing things it does for me, I feel strong and confident. Loving my body is a decision I wrestle with everyday and an act of defiance to patriarchal body policing. My body is beautiful because it is MY body and claiming this truth is empowering.” — Jeanie Chang, Chicago, USA, 2023, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057328005-4VXCU3XTNEREKCUN1QFY/Capture+One+Catalog0039+edit.jpg 2023 “I'm empowered knowing I can help other people find their voice.” — Nina Tomas, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1677963189733-YZDIFX910YF8SZ8JM60L/image-asset.jpeg 2023 “We are surrounded by stories. Everyone we meet tells their own narrative about the person they believe they are and the role they believe we play in their story. I am empowered in the constant challenge to parse through the pages of my life as written by others and the ones I choose to accept as my own narrative.” — Kristin Chan, Chicago, USA, 2023, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057213196-P42NXLUFKZTRA73GHPPR/Capture+One+Catalog0076+edit.jpg 2023 “Being a mom empowers me. The connection between my son and me has made me realize how much influence I can have on him, the way he interacts with people, the way he deals with emotions, the way he learns about himself. Every time I think about this, it gives me strength in growing into a better person.” — Serena Liu, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057163223-PYPQA0H3MD443VVA82PI/Capture+One+Catalog0129+edit.jpg 2023 “The ability and space to dream and be creative. The moments when the baggage of everyday task lists and deadlines at work subsides and I get to be in my studio, emerging both my hands and mind to tablescape and push the boundaries of convention.” — Alice Chan, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057163623-OYL968NPF9BIPGGMPF0F/Capture+One+Catalog0128+edit.jpg 2023 “It’s never too late to start something new. Being adventurous and inquisitive about life and things around me gives power and energy! It could be learning a new instrument, it could be quitting a stable job and being an entrepreneur. It could be loving yourself a bit more every day.” — Jerring Shen, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678143430392-YHTKSPBPTONWT0LG42UB/CW2023+-+Nan+Li.jpg 2023 “Passion for life, passion for family, passion for work empowers me. "We must believe that we are gifted for something” as Marie Curie said. I am so glad that I found something that I am gifted and have passion for, which empowers me to be a better me.” — Nan Li, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678032816956-2JAANK03VWDICRHLFT3D/CW-2815+edit.jpg 2023 “I used to be made fun of in school for how full my lips were. Thankfully my confidence and self love have grown since then, and my lips became an important body part in helping me showcase it. Whether it be through a smirk, showing off a new lip color, or knowing I look good without lip injections…I have come to love and even show off my lips. My Lashify lashes are also empowering. I love trying different lash maps, and lash day is one of my favorite self care routines that helps me distress at the end of each week. I can also look in the mirror after a tiring (and sometimes disgusting) nursing shift and say “at least my lashes look good.” — Jackie Chow, BSN, RN, CCRN, Chicago, USA, 2023, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678026639076-Q239DASTE0FWLS5XINSF/anya-2803+edit.jpg 2023 “My favorite essay is Joan Didion’s On Self Respect. For the last five years I have read it when I feel weak or don’t know which way to turn in life. It is my Bible. In it, Didion describes people with self-respect: “People with self-respect exhibit a certain toughness, a kind of moral nerve; they display what was once called character.” People who possess self-respect, in Didion’s telling, don’t lament their choices and are able live a life that is truly theirs. My mother is one of the only people I know who possesses this kind of self-respect. She empowers me by teaching me this difficult skill.” — Anya, Chicago, USA, 2023, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678159715831-954KI14VCJY25WZUCCKS/LOUISE_IMG_9156.jpeg 2023 “I am empowered by my hands, creating the life I want to lead. A handmade life, guided by the four directions, the Sun and the Moon. Where I am allowed to create, demolish and recreate myself and my life as I please. My hands - they mold, they paint, they feel, they listen. They hold me when I’m down, they also embrace others with love, and protect me from evils. “ — Louise Lam, Shanghai, China, 2023 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057200883-P6MKI06E6LTKC8LSDJ6T/Capture+One+Catalog0100+edit.jpg 2023 “Reading empowers me. For me, reading is not just about self-improvement, but more about seeking refuge from the demands of everyday life. It allows me to disconnect and recharge. While reading, I’m like a glass slowly filling up with water. I especially enjoy stories, like ‘Stoner’, ‘My Brilliant Friend’. In German, the word for history and story is the same,’ die Geschichte’. Stories have the power to help us see our shared humanity and connect with people around the world, beyond time and space.” — Cheryl, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1677963242912-PWVH4UOR02KGFMVXY8C2/CW-2625+edit.jpg 2023 “My grandmother owned a restaurant. My uncles owned restaurants. Somehow, I seemed to inherit an odd culinary gene. When I was barely old enough to hold a pan, I discovered how to make fried rice. I made so many types of fried rice, that my family pleaded for me to stop. On days off from school, I would sit in the kitchen with piles of cookbooks and test new recipes with my little sister. I found it fascinating. Out of simple items like carrots or eggs, a piece of art could be created. So, I kept creating. To me, cooking is magic. Through cooking, I can connect with my roots or learn new cultures, I can heal a sick relative or celebrate a good friend, I can even teleport back to that kitchen in my family’s home where I made my very first batch of fried rice. Cooking empowers me, inspires me, and still continues to teach me every day.“ — Jen Chan, Chicago, USA, 2023, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057224320-7SXISJ3680NUWUWP5P81/Capture+One+Catalog0059.jpg 2023 “Technology empowers me! It's really hard to be a woman with a lot of technical knowledge and a desire to become a software engineer.” — Thea Madrilejo, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709882978963-1S6NOTS9A1QQ6LBLE3KT/mandy-CW-2866.jpg 2023 “I’m empowered by knowing that this is all our first times at life. There’s no right way; there’s only the story that each of us will write for ourselves. Each line in the story is a step towards living more truthfully and meaningfully, and that line could not have been written without the one before.” — Mandy Tan, New York City, USA, 2023, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678159713906-NW4UF069LE2ZL21CTGHN/LEIGH_IMG_9426.jpeg 2023 “Soccer empowers me because it has allowed me to find a community of women who also love sports and being competitive, supportive, and active. I love the teammates and friends I’ve met through playing and hope the sport will always be a part of my life.” — Leigh Johnston, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057234293-WDRFIJL8NL7ZIJWMTLER/Capture+One+Catalog0055+edit.jpg 2023 “Being just ME! Intelligent, clumsy and kind. Me, myself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve my love and affection. I already have the means to achieve anything I choose. I feel empowered when I acknowledge who I am, where I come from and where I am going!” — Alita de Waal, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057243651-6O55DLT7N2R51CFVQ7FR/Capture+One+Catalog0053.jpg 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678035018813-L795XCZMMJL312DNOF2A/Emily3.jpeg 2023 “I am empowered by the idea of possibility. Some days I wake up and think, “Is today the day that I learn to play the piano? Or start knife throwing? Maybe learn Arabic?” Whatever my choice may be, I am grateful to be able to decide for myself and hold wonder for my future.” — Emily Billups, Chicago, USA, 2023, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057252442-8F14722OQAC692CC41I6/Capture+One+Catalog0047.jpg 2023 “Happiness, friendship and food all empower me.” — Shine Liu, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057273239-297QQGPKFHTD82DC1S53/Capture+One+Catalog0026+edit.jpg 2023 “Music,” — Liris, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057289512-E43PRLDZPDH9VASEUONN/Capture+One+Catalog0028+edit.jpg 2023 “My child.” — Grace Zhen, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678141941985-ZOSRL4S2HDV40Q7M6VD2/CW2023+-+Margaret.jpg 2023 “I’m empowered by reading and travel. Reading and travel both enrich my knowledge and perfectly inspire me. In my work and life, the difficulties and those hard moments also empowered me, made me get stronger and more brave.” — Margaret Xie, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057271212-QHNNJ40RGRRODOSCDCIY/Capture+One+Catalog0035+edit.jpg 2023 “All Dialogy Juniors, and their smiles, voice especially when they call you “Dear, Ms. Meng❤️” — Meng Meng, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1678057184908-NTAEM4Y89K35ZW5LP4OF/Capture+One+Catalog0105+edit.jpg 2023 “My family empowers me! They give me strength, courage and unconditional love. Whenever I feel defeated, thinking about my family gives me the power to overcome my obstacles.” — Mary Wei, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1679642334562-5PF3RZYIQTKTNDWLGBE2/31679636969_.pic_hd.jpg 2023 “From learning the debate. I learn more about how to lecture. And also it improves my writing skills.” — Moana, Shanghai, China, 2023, by Elena Tang https://celebratewomen.world/2024 daily 0.75 2025-03-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/a44b9824-cbdd-49a4-bad5-9c13a3060385/2024.png 2024 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524511509-E7VMWFK8FAPU7Y3T678J/2024-03-09+Celebrate+2+Chelsea.jpg 2024 “My friends and how they tell me, every time when I'm about to give up, “You're the best", and how they never forget me. My friends that I can only talk to online empower me too by telling me how good I am.” — Chelsea Pei, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709903450817-5VZMCX3GOW0T15FQVZ6G/celebratewomen-296+copy.jpg 2024 “Seeing younger women succeed empowers me. One hard and sad truth that many girls discover is that women with privilege and power can actually be the ones sometimes preventing younger generations from succeeding. I myself had those experiences in my youth. Growing up as a religious and ethnic minority in Texas was isolating enough (I never met another Shia Pashtun 2nd generation kid growing up), and it was all the more lonely when even the adults didn't seem to know how to best support me because I was "different." But from what it seems like to me, being empathetic and a source of motivation when younger women need it the most can be critical for helping them achieve their goals. I am truly so inspired watching the younger women I mentor discover how intelligent and impactful they are. “ — Shereen, Shanghai, China, 2024, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1716260695320-B57GW8A1T8B3XQLEOQE2/IMG_5182-copy-2.jpg 2024 "My female friendships empower me. being able to discuss my thoughts, air my worries, and confide in my closest friends makes me feel as though i’m able to do anything i set my mind too. and even if i can’t, if i’m too tired or my heart is too weary, there will always be my friends, waiting to hold me." — Lilian, Singapore, 2024, by Angela Kong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524538686-SS25HRMFG3J00EZZDDHF/2024-03-09+Celebrate+10+Amrit.jpg 2024 “My mummy. She leads by example. She showed me I always belonged in every room I'm in.” — Amrit Agastia, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521990691-M1P2TN3C7PKC0G03U9MB/Alicia+Mickes.jpg 2024 “I'm inspired by women empowering women and, in general, people taking initiative. I want everyone to benefit from the magical energy created by simply seeking more and supporting one another. I continue to pass on this inspiration in my daily life as a step-mother to two teen girls and my work as a Creative Director supporting a team of the most wonderful creative people.” — Alicia Mickes, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709653732457-5HDI5V9BLRV7QX7ZAEV8/caini-012.png 2024 “我很喜欢写，通过文字把所有不安、疑惑、喜悦和愤怒都一一确认下来。我从自己经历的有毒亲密关系、家庭暴力和校园暴力写开去，一遍遍向自己确认“这不是我的错”。渐渐开始有人开始读到我写的东西，他们愿意花时间金钱和我共度一段精神旅程。他们开始愿意把自己的故事交给我，我把它们写下来。 直到现在我自己成为记者，我相信我的故事就是女性的故事，我经历的就是历史，我相信文字自有力量。“ "I really like writing, using words to confirm all the anxieties, doubts, joys, and angers one by one. I write about toxic intimate relationships, domestic violence, and campus violence I have experienced, repeatedly affirming to myself, 'This is not my fault.' Gradually, people began to read what I wrote. They were willing to spend time and money to accompany me on a spiritual journey. They began to share their own stories with me, and I wrote them down. Until now, as I have become a journalist myself, I believe that my story is the story of women, what I have experienced is history, and I believe in the power of words." — Caini Yang, Shanghai, China, 20214, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524522762-XACEX5YI0OQHBZZDO8HV/2024-03-09+Celebrate+5+Suzie+Marylene.jpg 2024 “Being part of this world makes me feel myself. Feeling highly needed by my family empowers me, too!” — Susie Chen, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1716260565616-XM5TDK93AD9K8PHIQLOP/IMG_5346.jpg 2024 “ Music; The right song or playlist makes me feel like I can do anything.” — Elisabeth, Singapore, 2024, by Angela Kong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709903156611-GJWWTL43KOF4GX2BNF4I/tingting.jpg 2024 “We are all unique and different. Embracing our differences while finding common ground inspires my work. Choices are made by perceiving and comprehending various perspectives. It empowers me to create happy spaces where people feel good about themselves.” — Ting Ting Liang, Shanghai, China, 2024, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521784210-8NUT3ULE5WZU8H7X9EHX/Jazmine+Betz.jpg 2024 “There's a pervasive saying in Filipino culture, bahala na. It can be translated in a few ways, but "it's all up to God" and "whatever happens, happens" are the closest to how I interpreted its meaning. This concept has had complex impacts on Filipino life, and it's been misinterpreted and re-interpreted many times over. I'm not religious (to the dismay of my grandparents), so my internalization of bahala na isn't tied to accepting a fate determined by God. For me, it's an attitude of accepting reality with grace and determination. It's an objective understanding that life is full of disasters and unknowns, and the best way to move toward a better future is with optimism. Bahala na represents my roots and a stubborn refusal to lose hope for the future. I may not believe in a higher power, but I do have faith in myself and the people around me. I feel most empowered when I'm channeling this mindset to endure hardship, be ambitious about what I can achieve, and critically analyze myself and others with patience.” — Jazmine Betz, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521802458-T7EHO1ACJGUT6KEPXRXP/Emma+Foster.jpg 2024 “What empowers me is living a practice of unapologetic honesty toward self-expression and authenticity, embracing our inner spirit and our truest selves. And by surrounding myself with others who also uphold these values.” — Emma Foster, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711523748337-E88GWEX75LR5FK77HC5I/2024-03-16+Celebrate+Women+PD-7+Ula+Lin.jpg 2024 “Preston and Preston’s brother.” — Ula Lin, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521785077-LVVFT9TNL03XLPF1YY86/Vivian+Nguyen.jpg 2024 “I often find myself awed & inspired by other people’s personal journeys – and I’d say that my parents’ refugee story hits closest to my heart. Shortly after the Fall of Saigon in 1975, my mother & father were abruptly forced to flee from their home with my brother in tow. Needless to say, they endured many years of hardship & heartache as they rebuilt their lives in the United States – but with the kind help of others, they persevered & secured a better future for their kids by the time I came along. I didn’t recognize all that they sacrificed as a bratty little child – but these days, I’m grateful for all they’ve provided and how their experience has influenced me as a person. It’s their journey of strength & resilience – and the values they’ve instilled in me – that have empowered and motivated me, even in my darkest hours. Thank you, Mom & Dad, for your undying love & support – and for reminding me that I can be strong.” — Vivian Nguyen, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709820494514-57LXP0E31FMX5HHIENS4/celebratewomen-132+cathy.jpg 2024 “The belief of "I'm on my way" - at the age of transformation from a "girl" to a "woman," I see a new world opening up in front of me. I start to relearn many things - being my own best friend, gym partner, supporter, and parent. I begin to try many new things, make mistakes, and thrive to improve. I meet amazing people - caring, open-minded, courageous friends who motivate me day by day. Most importantly, I hold onto the single belief that "I'm on my way, at my own pace, to become my future self," and "the only person I am destined to become is the person I decide to be." I'm sure I can't imagine how this woman will be after 5 years; she will surprise me.” — Cathy Ma, Shanghai, China, 2024, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1716260694257-MFG7OEEQMW6E51AAO9TX/IMG_5147-copy-2.jpg 2024 " Achieving congruence in my life; feeling comfortable in my skin; feeling that I'm fulfilling purposeful work." — Maisie, Singapore, 2024, by Angela Kong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524523161-27Y3DM7M2Q5HALRGIIIG/2024-03-09+Celebrate+4+Selina.jpg 2024 “Accompanying my two children in their learning and growth, makes me more and more powerful.” — Selina Zhang, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711559274887-H4SALK0FNKXLGKDH1J0B/HC+2024-03-24+Celebrate+Women-6+Elizabeth.jpg 2024 “Parent’s support and friend’s encouragement, they use caring words to make me feel more supported.” — Elizabeth, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711523753635-YHQGKAI85CJW2J0OGZMQ/2024-03-16+Celebrate+Women+PD-8+Yumi+Li.jpg 2024 “People and friends around me who are amazing. They empower me to get better. You have to work hard, be competitive, and try your best.” — Yumi Li, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1716260561796-VSYA868F4QIMX2IJ8JJO/IMG_5133.jpg 2024 “ Living a life of purpose empowers me. Knowing that I have full support in all that I do from my loved ones empowers me. The inner knowing that I have what it takes to get through the highs and lows in life empowers me. My financial stability empowers me. Taking responsibility for my self care, giving grace and self compassion to my inner child and empowers me.” — Liwen, Singapore, 2024, by Angela Kong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521795666-9C72MM143TA2JV6B5TF6/Jenn+Bahrs.jpg 2024 “When I was a young girl I would beg my mom to let me do martial arts. My mom would always reply “ladies don’t fight.” So when I was a young adult I got to try this thing called historical fencing, and I’ve stuck with it since 1998. I compete all over the nation and it’s been my passion ever since.” — Jenn Bahrs, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521956308-30F68I1TFU4BM0GJLFK7/Amanda+Asofsky.jpg 2024 “Drawing comics. It's a way for me to process stuff I'm going through, document my life, and make people laugh. It's one of the ways I connect with people and it reminds me that so long as you're creating something, you're learning and growing as well.” — Amanda Asofsky, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524528025-WZRZO283EULGQPK13BPE/2024-03-09+Celebrate+6+Rita.jpg 2024 “Roseanne Park, Gaeul, and WonYoung empower me.” — Rita Ruiting Zhai, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524511610-A0HYSE6OG73QIJV8G41M/2024-03-09+Celebrate+1+Lisa.jpg 2024 “Solo traveling empowers me! Having solo traveled to 10 countries during the last 2 years, I've become stronger and more confident than ever!” — Lisa Xu, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711524533888-CNPTV7LU02LD2VWWXQW7/2024-03-09+Celebrate+7+Dora+Cassie.jpg 2024 “Friendship and books.” — Dora Li and Cassie Peng, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521944094-2LEQH7GW7OOSOFO8AT2W/Carley+Butella.jpg 2024 “I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by family who’ve been very supportive of me pursuing a career in art. They have empowered me since the beginning, acknowledging it might be a tough journey and supporting me the whole way. I also cannot forget about my friends and coworkers who’ve also made such a huge difference in my life and helped me develop a stronger voice! So shout out to my family, friends, and coworkers for their guidance and support!” — Carley Butella, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1709639738869-KO3XQBVPDEXYJN5OE0Y8/celebratewomen-085.jpg 2024 “What makes me feel empowered? Women who are brave enough to be themselves. Women who go after what they want without letting anyone tell them what’s “right”. Women who aren’t afraid to carve their own path to make their ideas come to life. I love working with these women who own small businesses, who create their own content and build communities because they inspire me to be myself without worrying about others. “ — name, Shanghai, China, 2024, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1716260605632-Z2W63NDPMWX0C12QB3A8/IMG_5457.jpg 2024 "Listening to body, embracing play, dissolving blockages, smashing glass plates.” — Genevieve, Singapore, 2024, by Angela Kong https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521957407-F7XBG761TFPAFLQMRZBW/Eli+Rice.png 2024 “I am empowered by my heritage. I struggled a lot with being a very Americanized Puerto Rican growing up and feeling isolated from my community. But whenever I get those negative feelings or feelings of self doubt I think of what my Titi Lydia said to me the last time she saw me. "Hold your head up. You're one of us. Be proud of who you are and where you come from." — Eli Rice, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711559391899-P2CUTGFS3QLY1RQZFQ0W/HC+2024-03-24+Celebrate+Women-14+Kelan+Ji.jpg 2024 “The ability to use my words to make a difference.” — Kelan Ji, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711559378192-JVZTPOP80JS408DJGC5C/HC+2024-03-24+Celebrate+Women-8+Chloe+H.jpg 2024 “Knowing that my family is always there for me!” — Chloe H, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521798599-KOWLFNVFAEHKDAWAVE02/Hilary+Thompson.jpg 2024 “No matter what point I am in my life, I have always been guided by storytelling. Stories enable us to envision something better for our lives during times that are dark, learn more about those around us and find solace in shared experiences. The stories I've read have allowed me to believe in my own resilience, drawing strength from the narratives I could see myself in. It's through storytelling that I feel like I've been able to build what my own narrative could look like, and how to make that happen for myself.” — Hilary Thompson, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711559386192-5FRQPQM1MXAGH299E80H/HC+2024-03-24+Celebrate+Women-10+Nami+na.jpg 2024 “That if i finish things. I can help my friends and family, or maybe my country and the world.” — Nami Na, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711521793293-VBUWGJQ6J39LLZHCVFWY/Kate+Lancashire.jpg 2024 “I find my community empowering. My husband and I are transplants from Ohio to Seattle. When we moved here 6 years ago we didn't know many people. But having a community has always been important to me, so I put a lot of time and attention into my relationships. I started planning yearly events for our group of friends, establishing traditions and making time to have fun and be silly. I also started finding ways to get involved in my neighborhood. And at this point, I'm really proud of the community we've established. It's one of my greatest accomplishments to have a group of friends that I respect and love so much. They make my life so rich and I can't wait to see how our relationships change and deepen as we get older together.” — Kate Lancashire, Renton, USA, 2024, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1711559757757-AH6E9U2IJ4HQ2OPTKOKH/HC+2024-03-24+Celebrate+Women-7+Audrey.jpg 2024 “EVERYTHING.” — Audrey, Shanghai, China, 2024, by Elena Tang https://celebratewomen.world/2025 daily 0.75 2025-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903716519-LJ6377UPDK5UC81H1RJ7/1.+Lisa.JPG 2025 “Reading books and educational materials empowers me. Coming from one of the marginalised communities in Narok County, where education is not regarded as that important, reading books empowers me so much as I am able to gain knowledge from it. As a result of this, I always educate those who are unable to access such materials but are willing to gain knowledge.” — Lisa Milanoi, Kajiado County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742869687704-8ICSC2KSLL02ROJC57CI/Lathika+Chandra+Mouli.jpg 2025 "Photos of my family and friends empower me. If you know me, you know I have photos of my loved ones everywhere! They remind me of the good times and of the fact that I have such a strong support system I can lean on, and they keep me going by being a visual symbol of the long line of strong, resilient women I come from" — Lathika Chandra Mouli, Singapore, 2025 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903011893-4S8967ES3HYOZDUXLANT/Helene.JPG 2025 “As a young girl with a disability, I gain confidence from knowing I am just as capable as others. I believe in my future success and feel empowered by the possibility of becoming wealthy.” — Helene Nikuze, Nyamagabe, Rwanda, 2025, by Vestine Muhawenimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900718939-IHV40P0V9JRBNXF7T5W1/Gifty+Otu.jpeg 2025 “Orphaned and abandoned, I have faced instability and hardship. Forced to drop out of school, later fled to Tamale, enduring low wages and exploitation. Refusing to give up, I found hope through my church, discovered a passion for cooking, and built a career in hospitality. With perseverance, I launched my own restaurant and now employs three people. From orphan to entrepreneur, my journey is a testament to resilience and determination.” — Gifty Otu, Tamale, Ghana, 2025, by Dorcas Abban https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158823936-FSE9UTRQH3HBAXE8KXFW/Emily+Floyd.jpg 2025 “My most empowering moments come at the intersection of strength and softness - often found through the support of my closest femme friends. I feel empowered when they encourage me to embrace my femininity, my emotions, and my authentic self even in the face of challenge. In a past life I played Maid Marian every summer for six years, and the character really left her mark on me - her beauty, her courage, her kind heart, and her strength. The tattoo on my arm represents that legacy: the strength of the broadsword combined with the delicate beauty of spring flowers. It's a dichotomy I seek to embody in everything I do.” — Emily Floyd, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742905332657-S9PMC8R7YQZCM7JJX9DO/4.+Kisaru.JPG 2025 “Farming empowers me as it is one of my sources of income. It has enabled me to improve my family’s well-being. Being able to achieve economic independence and accessing quality food for my family, hence improving the quality of life of my family.” — Kisaru Nayianoi, Narok County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742869844877-7XDTAE5DOD68VQIK548J/a3.jpg 2025 “Seven years ago, we rescued two calico kittens from under a truck in Bridgeport, just before the harsh Chicago winter. Once feral and terrified, they’ve slowly learned to trust. Rescue can feel overwhelming at first, but that temporary discomfort is nothing compared to the bond we have now. Knowing they’re safe, warm, and loved empowers me—reminding me of my own courage and the power of choosing compassion.” — Ann Liu, Chicago, USA, 2025, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900193048-FCMM0XGREBR7MUITAEVA/3.+Manerita.JPG 2025 “I am 71 years old and I have three children. I lost my husband to cancer, which drained our finances and left us without work. What gives me strength is my children, who now provide me with food and other necessities of life.” — Mukandori Manerita, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903014434-R50S5194OFPQ88YE79YV/Marie.jpg 2025 “I take pride in being a woman who can manage my home while excelling in traditionally male-dominated work as a skilled builder.” — Marie Bikorimana, Nyamagabe, Rwanda, 2025, by Vestine Muhawenimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742869837722-AQ4E9MCUMBSDK8ZO03ZQ/Olivia.jpg 2025 “I love my creativity and the many ways it empowers me. It allows me to think through problems and see the positivity in everything; it allows me to see the world in a new and exciting way. I can bring joy to the people I love by surprising them with my creative ideas.” — Oliva Okely, Sydney, Australia, 2025 by Cordelia Hsu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158399922-0B0HTRX9CTAF7D887EVU/Arya+Karamchandani.jpg 2025 “The thing that empowers me is finding out of the box solutions to challenging problems.” — Arya Karamchandani, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900200046-5C9YVXOWWNRALCKQ0GT6/4.+Sarah.JPG 2025 “I am 25 years old and come from Kimironko. From 2022 to 2023, I worked as a domestic worker, but I was determined to change my life. I worked hard and saved money until I could pursue something new. Tired of domestic work, I learned to ride a motorcycle and was fortunate to acquire one of my own. Now, I earn a living as a motorcycle rider and dream of achieving even more, including one day driving big cars. What empowers me is knowing that I can achieve anything I set my heart on.” — Ishimwe Sarah, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742873052972-W414BLITSYQ2K4NEXUW2/Marie+Anne.jpg 2025 “I find empowerment in the success of my farming, ranching, and business, as these endeavors enable me to support my family, pay for my children's education, and save through community groups.” — Marie Anne Nambajimana, Nyaruguru, Rwanda, 2025, by Rosalie Dusabimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742905935172-VTA3SMXMV37XN6HED9GO/Screenshot+2025-03-25+at+20.04.29.png 2025 “My journey from hardship to financial independence is a powerful story of resilience. I have faced numerous hardships, from abandoning my education due to financial struggles to enduring exploitation while working abroad. After returning to Ghana, I took on various jobs while caring for my family. Life in Tamale brought further challenges, including my husband's job loss and personal tragedies. However, through resilience and hard work, I rebuilt my business, achieved financial stability, and secured a better future for my children.” — Veronica Aidoo, Tamale, Ghana, 2025, by Dorcas Abban https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742905977155-8QQLHMNZIG88JHHNRL2U/Screenshot+2025-03-25+at+21.32.00.png 2025 “My journey from a journalism intern to a media trailblazer is one of resilience and passion. Inspired by pioneers like Gifty Aunt, Nana aba anamoah and Ayisha Ibrahim, I overcame industry challenges while balancing marriage and motherhood. Transitioning from radio to TV, I have proved that determination and adaptability can break barriers. My story continues to inspire aspiring female journalists.” — Muniru Bariya, Tamale, Ghana, 2025, by Dorcas Abban https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872274167-VQ0VDD9EW2OALRBJPFY4/5.+Claudine.jpg 2025 “I am a woman striving for self-development through fruit farming, including vegetables, which helps me remain self-sufficient and resilient.” — Mukeshimana Claudine, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158659823-5X8C7OLPV274QADT8KBZ/Grace+Zeng.jpg 2025 “Style empowers me. Some say it’s bad optics to care about how you look, but I don’t see eye to eye with that point of view. It’s truly an eye-opening experience to try out new looks and see oneself through a different lens. In the blink of an eye, I can be any version of me that I envision in my mind’s eye.” — Grace Zeng, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900209044-ICY16SFS9KK9Y12R1ITR/5.+Scovia.JPG 2025 “I am a 23-year-old single mother from Kicukiro. I work as an agent for MTN and several banks. After losing my father, my family's support stopped, and because I was a girl, I was denied an education. Later, I managed to return to school, but when I got pregnant, my life took another turn. Now, in Secondary 6, I have settled down and, together with my siblings, support my mother. Determined to build a better future, I work hard to stay independent and never go back to the struggles of my past.” — Mutesi Scovia, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742869687194-FFAMKOJRTQWEVB0BR8M5/Manasa+Sitaram.jpg 2025 “I am empowered by my ability to adapt. Both in terms of my body adaption to be a habitat for a new human being, but also in being able to adapt to life in every phase - no matter what gets thrown my way. In some ways I feel it’s built into our DNA as women, to rise to the occasion no matter the circumstance and environment, but this journey of evolving into motherhood has really made that clear for me - we can do and be anything we put our minds to, if we’re open to a bit of change.” — Manasa Sitaram, Singapore, 2025 by Ng Meizhi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743225430692-HX69S17DDDXH4DM1XBEQ/Nicole+Andelfinger.jpg 2025 “Stories. (Ones that inspire to believe, ones that call to act, ones that distill hope, ones that plant the seed that makes us think. Centuries of history between us all and stories are what continue to endure. It’s stories that we whispered in the night, read by the fire, and think of as we sit in traffic. While the future will change and grow and bring more change than thought can wrap around, it’s stories of eld and to be that will continue to bind the human experience.) …but also coffee.” — Nicole Andelfinger, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872103804-EJ3D2Q05P2VTJXJT12B7/3.+Emerance.jpg 2025 “I see farming as a source of empowerment, helping me save money, develop myself, and provide for my family.” — Nyiransabimana Emerance, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158888068-816XB6VNX6NXZ22V60GT/Jelisa+Beaty.jpg 2025 “Games empower me and are a driving force in my life. Professionally, I have the privilege of bringing joy to others through play, while personally, they provide an escape from the daily grind, immersing me in rich worlds and unique stories that inspire and energize me. They ignite my creativity, challenge me to solve problems, and foster meaningful connections—all essential aspects of who I am.” — Jelisa Beaty, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903011676-RH2IF0Y6O71W0U7DXSUK/Rosalie.jpg 2025 “I am a young tailor, and I feel proud of my contributions to my family's well-being. I derive joy from creating and wearing beautiful clothes.” — Rosalie Niyonshuti, Nyamagabe, Rwanda, 2025, by Vestine Muhawenimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158405203-BTAO3WB4SC4QPRONH7XI/Kathy+Dongo.JPG 2025 “The support of my family, friends, and mentors.” — Kathy Dongo, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872737363-15HU2FWQC9A4MQAZYYHD/Clarisse.jpg 2025 “I experience a strong sense of fulfillment in the unity I share with my husband, which I attribute to the effective leadership within our relationship. This stability enhances my confidence and reinforces my sense of purpose. I find empowerment in my business success and the support from my family. I take pride in my growth as a young woman and value having a voice in family decisions. Knowing that I actively contribute to my family's well-being boosts my confidence and gives me a sense of control over my future.” — Clarisse Irafasha, Rwamagana, Rwanda, 2025, by Josiane Mukeshimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158599043-JODN7PBFFIPH7232ZS05/Avantika+Tiwari.jpg 2025 “Energy inspires me. If you look for it, you can always find energy in people, places and things to inspire you. I'm lucky to find that energy in all parts of my life- the wonderful people that fill my life, the music I listen to, the job I go to every day and so much more.” — Avantika Tiwari, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158590127-ZM4YVSZPVXE3VLZ9M9XL/Sarah+Wassell.jpg 2025 “Being Bad at New Things. As I've gotten older, I've realized that learning new skills I'm passionate about gives me so much lasting joy in my life. The whole process: being BAD at something is incredibly humbling, and while I struggle with giving up that control and being uncomfortable, I recognize that if I'm doing something repeatedly that I'm so bad at, it means I'm actively chipping away at that lack of skill and getting better, even if my progess is so much slower than I want it to be…” Read more — Sarah Wassell, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872088684-ML6TL8AMO7LOB0VUVYEZ/2.+Chantal+Nyirandikubwimana+.jpg 2025 “I find strength in livestock and agriculture, as their success allows me to grow, take care of my family, and support my husband.” — Chantal Nyirandikubwimana, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158744424-MWYCVOH43VO915BB4IVQ/Diana+Winkler.jpg 2025 “Being a mom to my two wonderful sons empowers me. As a parent, I continue to learn, experience, and grow through joy, facing fear and uncertainty, reflection, empathy, strength, wins, and listening. My kids enable me to stretch and reach higher as a person. They are my cheering section, just as I am for them. While my sons are now 22 and 20 years old, their beloved childhood stuffies, Godzilla and Minilla, continue to represent silliness, adventure, fierceness, love, and friendship. These toys remind me of fun times, tears, and wonderful travels with my kids, along with the strong foundation I’ve helped build with them so they may go forth and conquer in their own lives.” — Diana Winkler, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158900886-RPLHF6WFFIKCEEA2EHYG/d3+copy.jpg 2025 “Not being what people expect and feeling confident being myself, both intellectually and physically…” Read more — Linda Qiu, Chicago, USA, 2025, by Brian Ho https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872946389-35V6D5BB4S9Y7VH7BYMU/Josiane.jpg 2025 “I feel empowered by the unwavering support of my parents, who have always been there for me, and by my ability to have a voice in family decisions.” — Josiane Nyabyenda, Nyaruguru, Rwanda, 2025, by Rosalie Dusabimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872518091-4K9MG6Y526UNHXBIG1WM/Penina.jpg 2025 “I feel empowered by my sense of capability and independence. I believe I can achieve anything that supports my personal and economic growth. The supportive leadership in my life reassures me that I have the freedom and encouragement to pursue my ambitions.” — Penina Mukandayisenga, Rwamagana, Rwanda, 2025, by Josiane Mukeshimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158660375-EVI4DU5E7QJP8ECP4ZFS/Christine+Thai.jpg 2025 “Over the years, I’ve realized how leaning into my empathetic nature has profoundly shaped who I am today. However, it is compassion that empowers me. Compassion is not just about having the ability to feel for others, but to also answer the call to help them if needed. It’s usually not convenient, and it might seem like you’re “sacrificing” your own agenda, budget, time, and energy. On the contrary, I feel that compassion for other people is empowering and enriches my life.” — Christine Thai, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872704065-TTOCFLKYBRM8FYZHUVKA/Seth.jpg 2025 “My motivation comes from witnessing the growth of my business and receiving support from my family. I take pride in my progress as a young woman, feeling empowered to have a voice in decisions that help my family thrive. I play a key role as a decision-maker in my household.” — Seth Kwizera, Rwamagana, Rwanda, 2025, by Josiane Mukeshimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742873087346-2CQG73F7O53BRM8NJPPS/Theodette.jpg 2025 “As a farmer and rancher, I feel empowered when my agricultural activities thrive, allowing me to provide for my family.” — Theodette Mukanziza, Nyaruguru, Rwanda, 2025, by Rosalie Dusabimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903712361-0DS8IVKJPIQ89IZTRP84/3.+Natuaro.JPG 2025 “Beading has empowered me so much for a long time as it is one of the activities that I do to get an income from. This has enabled me to pay my bills, it has also improved my creativity skills being able to create different designs of beads that are unique.” — Natuaro Saaya, Narok County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158459961-7GTLGMGLE0MTXRFWHWAV/Tara+Theoharis.jpg 2025 “I feel most empowered when I create. I can create LIFE! I can create a meal that nourishes and comforts. I can create books that bring joy, that educate and empower others. Creating is an act of service to others and myself, that helps leave a portion of me on this earth, and hopefully, makes it a little bit better.” — Tara Theoharis, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872398141-LUW7WTV63Q3W1NXDASY5/Emelyse.JPG 2025 “I find empowerment in my ability to achieve my goals on my own terms. I value my independence and take pride in working towards my needs without relying on others. Recognizing that I possess the same abilities as men strengthens my determination to succeed.” — Emelyse Kayitesi, Rwamagana, Rwanda, 2025, by Josiane Mukeshimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900123107-JKGQCT253YPRZ5S2ADC4/1.+Leah.JPG 2025 “I am empowered by the word of God, which strengthens me every day. My daughter gives me the courage to wake up each day and fight for a better future, ensuring that I can support her both financially and emotionally.” — Mukamanzi Leah, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900178310-G2W69ZU459SD4X47TH0B/2.+Theogenia.JPG 2025 “I am a single mother with a physical disability in my legs. I push myself every day to work as a hair braider, and what empowers me is my determination to be financially independent. I refuse to resort to begging or relying on others for support, I want to stand on my own.” — Theogenia Mukamazimpaka, Kigali, Rwanda, 2025, by Diannah Munezero https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742900782725-5390S3Z2JL38X09T68YZ/Screenshot+2025-03-25+at+20.04.18.png 2025 “Born into financial hardship, I turned adversity into opportunity. From a young age, I have showed business acumen, selling ice cream and negotiating deals. While working as a teacher, I co-founded CYNBETH Enterprise, a thriving cosmetics and oil company. Driven by a passion for helping others, Who later established God’s LOVE Foundation, empowering widows, single mothers, and underprivileged children across Ghana. My journey is one of resilience and impact—proving that true success lies in uplifting others.” — Miss Cynthia Kampoe, Tamale, Ghana, 2025, by Dorcas Abban https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158469993-HIFZ5CXW7OMQLUA878VL/Angelina+Harris.jpg 2025 “What empowers me is the ability to authentically and unapologetically express myself. Whether it’s putting together a cute outfit or putting together a deck of Magic: The Gathering cards, I find a way to make my interests my own and add my personal flair…” Read more — Angelina Harris, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742870443066-QUD3UPDHRJ7ZWIWSSS99/1.+Chantal+Mujawayezu.jpg 2025 “I feel empowered by growing ripe fruits and raising livestock, as it enables me to support my family and pay for my children's education.” — Chantal Mujawayezu, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903646403-DQ2BJ6XUK3G5U96WAQH8/2.+Winnie.JPG 2025 “My smartphone empowers me as it enables me to access information on the internet. I've been able to gain a lot of information from the internet using my phone and as a result I've been able to improve my knowledge and skills.” — Winnie Kiu, Narok County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872602653-O553OZSN0RGXE9BJ8SQ6/Julienne.JPG 2025 “I experience empowerment through the family I have built and the value I hold within it. I appreciate having equal opportunities as my husband, which allows me to contribute meaningfully. Whether I'm selling, painting, or engaging in other work, I embrace my ability to drive my family's prosperity.” — Julienne Mutuyimana, Rwamagana, Rwanda, 2025, by Josiane Mukeshimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158540816-5MM18XW16OFM4YQNCN1Q/Nickii+Pelletier.jpg 2025 “What empowers me is my experiences and enjoyment of making print. I enjoy the process of print, everything from the smell of ink on paper, the textile feel of something physical in your hands, and the excitement it causes in other people.” — Nickii Pelletier, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903020058-KKYZ3R9VZKY64TAOQPA9/Christine.JPG 2025 “I feel empowered as a woman who supports her husband and actively participates in family decision-making.” — Christine Akuze, Nyamagabe, Rwanda, 2025, by Vestine Muhawenimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158890179-SI0R17UN8QGQAW3OHKZ1/Mary+Josberger.jpg 2025 “Capturing time itself. Slaying my foes (schedules! deadlines! anxiety!) Being a mom, spouse, daughter, and friend.” — Mary Josberger, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872868627-2N6OON0GUFBHUJ4W09G7/Bernadette.jpg 2025 “I gain confidence and motivation from my husband's support and guidance in our farming and ranching, which helps us provide for our children's education. I find empowerment through agriculture, family support, and financial independence, allowing me to build a secure and fulfilling life.” — Bernadette Nyiransabimana, Nyaruguru, Rwanda, 2025, by Rosalie Dusabimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158932524-DPUHR957EE3NYZ77VN78/Delia+Greve.jpg 2025 “I’ve always been someone who likes to try new things, try new crafts or hobbies, and find new ways to be creative. There’s a power that comes from pushing myself to see if I can make that showstopper recipe, write a novel or three, sew theater costumes or crochet a blanket, refinish my deck, or build and restore furniture. Each new project teaches me something new about myself, tests my skills . . . and patience. But when I’m done, I can say, “Yes, I did that!”’ — Delia Greve, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742873143088-99289GK92A6RMC8NYB74/Marie+Rose.JPG 2025 “I draw strength from the security that farming and ranching bring to my family, ensuring we have everything we need for daily life.” — Marie Rose Nyirahabimana, Nyaruguru, Rwanda, 2025, by Rosalie Dusabimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158523901-206G62JR1P1ZIURZ4BTE/Nicolette+Dunks.jpg 2025 “I do not have a relationship with my mother, but I have been surrounded by strong amazing women in my life who have gone out of their way to fill my cup over the years. They are what empowers me. Whether it's my sister or cousins teaching me to love our Colombian culture, my friend's mother who always opened their home and dinner table to me when needed, or my best friend hand-sewing my wedding shawl so I would have my first real family heirloom to pass on. The world is a scary place, but the strong women in my village remind me that one of the best things we can do in a time where there are evil dragons - is to raise a dragon slayer. I hope to raise my future daughter with a strong will and fierce compassion, and I'm so lucky that she will have so many strong women in her village to help empower her.” — Nicolette Dunks, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742903016147-4UI5WFWLQ4LQNZN7W5TJ/Cartas.jpg 2025 “I find fulfillment in having raised my husband's six children from a young age and watching them grow into successful individuals.” — Cartas Mukamurisa, Nyamagabe, Rwanda, 2025, by Vestine Muhawenimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158818685-WU62IGCZP92LAHNVEGMY/Janna+Martin.jpg 2025 “Empowerment for me comes from embracing the duality of my strengths. I am empowered by my individuality but also by being able to support and help others. I am passionate about cultivating empathy, connection, and resilience. At the same time, my independence doesn’t mean isolation; it’s about developing the confidence to handle challenges on my own and setting boundaries that keep my cup filled so I can help others without burning out.” — Janna Martin, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743176303237-ZRXXIQJ941G5CBYFOGMV/5.+Esther.JPG 2025 “The bible empowers me as it offers spiritual guidance to me, it emphasizes love, dignity, and respect. For my entire life, I've been able to rely on the bible to gain knowledge on different topics and also to gain guidance from it. By doing so I've been able to walk in confidence, strength, and purpose.” — Esther Naisoi, Narok County, Kenya, 2025, by Irene Naneu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1742872261368-X8DD869C40ZQKA78ZE82/4.+Berthilde.jpg 2025 “I am empowered by farming and business because they give me financial independence and the ability to care for my child without relying on others.” — Mujawamariya Bertilde, Musanze, Rwanda, 2025, by Clementine Twizerimana https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743441884231-Y82UIXIW21XQV7E5UD3Q/nicoco.jpg 2025 “I am empowered by my past self who had the courage to dream, and all my previous selves who did their best to carry it forward. To everyone who participated in and supported CELEBRATE WOMEN — thank you. I am grateful. For the last time, what empowers you? — nicoco, Shanghai, China, 2025, by nicoco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/03408b44-c488-4295-aadf-b41789a212f1/2025.png 2025 - Make it stand out On mobile click the image then click the circle in the bottom right to read captions 在手机上可点击右下角阅读细节 https://celebratewomen.world/lindaqiu daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158900886-RPLHF6WFFIKCEEA2EHYG/d3+copy.jpg Linda Qiu - Make it stand out “Not being what people expect and feeling confident being myself, both intellectually and physically. As an Asian American woman, I think people I meet are often surprised to find out I'm a lawyer. Going through law school and practicing law at a big firm isn't easy--facing those hardships is what makes the experience so rewarding. But aside from my own feeling of accomplishment, it feels even more empowering when others underestimate me or who I am. When I argue in front of a judge, when I cross-examine a witness, when I speak up and give my opinions to a client, I feel powerful and respected. For some reason, I feel all the more powerful if they mistook me for a secretary or expected me to have a timid presence before realizing, "oh shit, she's a badass." I also rock climb, mostly around men. When I climb a difficult route or do numerous pull-ups as a warm-up, I feel incredibly strong and proud of my physical abilities. Seeing other people's shock at my strength and climbing skill is just the cherry on top.” — Linda Qiu, Chicago, USA, 2025, by Brian Ho https://celebratewomen.world/sarahwassell daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158590127-ZM4YVSZPVXE3VLZ9M9XL/Sarah+Wassell.jpg Sarah Wassell - Make it stand out “Being Bad at New Things. As I've gotten older, I've realized that learning new skills I'm passionate about gives me so much lasting joy in my life. The whole process: being BAD at something is incredibly humbling, and while I struggle with giving up that control and being uncomfortable, I recognize that if I'm doing something repeatedly that I'm so bad at, it means I'm actively chipping away at that lack of skill and getting better, even if my progess is so much slower than I want it to be. Another aspect of this joy is taking classes and learning from experts. That time feels like a gift to myself and I love supporting people in my community who are experts. I've been trying to learn to dance on my rollerskates for almost 5 years now (thanks pandemic! ) and I'm still SO FAR away from my goals, but I have also made a ton of progress. I've taken classes from an incredible skater, Dalila Gittens at the Beacon and it's a whole community of people I'd never otherwise meet, and seeing up close someone who is so talented and has worked so hard like Dalila is so fun and exciting.” — Sarah Wassell, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://celebratewomen.world/angelina-harris daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1743158469993-HIFZ5CXW7OMQLUA878VL/Angelina+Harris.jpg Angelina Harris - Make it stand out “What empowers me is the ability to authentically and unapologetically express myself. Whether it’s putting together a cute outfit or putting together a deck of Magic: The Gathering cards, I find a way to make my interests my own and add my personal flair. When I was in high school, there was only a small group of people who knew I played Magic and other games like D&D and the Diablo games. I don’t think at the time I realized I was hiding that part of myself, but back then it felt so off-brand from what most of my friends knew me for, which was fashion, theatre, makeup, choir, and pink. I wouldn’t shy away from the fact that gaming was a hobby of mine if anyone asked me about it, but it didn’t come up in my circles very much, and I certainly wasn’t going around advertising the fact. My highschool friends and my Magic friends were just something I kept separate. Little did I know only a few years later when I became a Social Media Intern for Magic: The Gathering that nearly ALL of my friends, even my sorority sisters, would be asking me to teach them how to play Magic! Even now as a full time employee of almost 2 years, every member of my immediate family and nearly every bridesmaid in my wedding plays Commander now. There was no real reason for me to think my friends I went shopping with wouldn’t play Commander with me, I was just taught a to believe in a dichotomy that doesn’t actually exist and I didn’t even realize I was perpetuating it, and I missed out on years of fun games with some of my favorite people. Not only that, I’ve found a way to bring a little bit of my flair into the decks I build, like when I make a Tiamat deck with all Pink holographic sleeves and pink signatures because it makes me feel cutesy and Barbie while I destroy my opponent’s board with some pink flashy sparkles. There’s no right way to express femininity, masculinity, androgyny, or any other sense of self. There’s only the way of expressing yourself that makes you feel good and brings you joy, and not letting anyone tell you otherwise. That’s something I’ve really grown to appreciate and embrace as a source of power, one that I try to find opportunity for in everything I do.” — Angelina Harris, Seattle, USA, 2025, by Women of Wizards, a Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro Employee Resource Group https://celebratewomen.world/junki daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646793326619-S5UK53RJ7NRXL8NJMI6L/Junki_IW_2022_08.jpg Junki - Make it stand out “I am excited about the concept of neuroplasticity. Let me tell you why. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to grow and evolve in response to our interactions with our environment. Growing up in Japan where the culture values conformity, it has been extremely hard for me to express my truths and disagreements toward others. Culturally, I was trained to avoid conflicts to be accepted by the community. I was good at pleasing others and satisfying others, but not myself. There was an emptiness I didn't know how to fill. I thought this was who I am and my personality was not changeable. Then I learned my personality is nothing more than the adaptation from the environment where I grew up. With the concept of neuroplasticity, I learned that I can choose and develop the personality of who I want to be by developing new mindsets, new behaviors, and new abilities. The feelings of anger and sadness were just indications of my desire to change rather than signs I was defective. Today, I am on my journey of becoming a woman who openly expresses her truths and disagreements without any hesitation. I am enjoying being known, seen, and accepted by authentically being me. ニューロプラスティシティ(神経可塑性)という概念にとても勇気付けられます。ニューロプラスティシティとは、 私達が生活する環境との相互作用に応じて成長、進化する脳の能力です。集団への適合性を重視する日本で育っ た私にとって、他人に対する本音や意見の相違を表現することは非常に困難でした。日本文化の中で、私は集団 社会に適応できるよう意見の衝突、紛争を避けるよう仕付けられました。結果、他人を喜ばせ、満足させること には長けていましたが、自分自身の事は置き去りに。。。満たし方の解らない空虚感を感じていました。ただ、 これが私であり、性格は変えられないものだと思っていました。しかし、私の性格は私が育った環境へに適応す るために養われたにすぎないのだと学びました。ニューロプラスティシティという概念により、私は新しい考え 方、新しい行動、新しい能力を育成することで、私がなりたい人、私が取り入れたい個性を選び、育成すること が可能だと知りました。悲しみや怒りといった感情は、私が欠如していたというサインではなく、私が変化した いという単なる願望の兆候でした。今、私は躊躇うことなく本音や意見の相違を表現できる女性を目指して慢心 中です。ありのままの私を知ってもらうこと、受け入れてもらうことに喜びを感じています。” — Junki, Chicago, USA, 2022, by Natalie Soisudarat https://celebratewomen.world/rae daily 0.75 2025-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c7e97e629f2cc34629dbd9c/1646471121883-9B0295ZYOI17SKBBKJXM/rae2.jpg Rae - Make it stand out Fearfully and Wonderfully… Dysphoric I look in the mirror And see the buzzcut of a lost daughter Stubble gripping her chin That sinful fruit wedged in her throat Choking her She gasps Each uttered syllable cracking and aching Escaping her lips Shoulders broadening with repugnance Tear-soaked calloused hands Gripping a chest that never grew Skin hardening Atop the development of bones A structure that can never be undone Becoming an abomination before her eyes Stiffening of her genitals She desperately hides them away Dark and thick hair grows down her once smooth legs Encasing them in shame A body matures and morphs before her Swelling of confusion and bitterness within her I gaze in the mirror I’m empowered as I see the most recent incarnation of a story with no ending He begins to slip away Each day she becomes More visible More real More tangible I’m empowered by her will Not to live But to thrive She is alive — Rae, Shanghai, China, 2022, by nicoco