Umeoji, i’m currently traveling back home from this year’s United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) held in New York annually in March. Over the years, I’ve expressed gratitude for the support I’ve received from women leaders worldwide and have taken pride in mentoring the next generation of activists. Despite the familiar frustrations at CSW with repetitive conversations, it’s always refreshing to encounter new faces and voices.
During the event, I led a session examining research findings on Gender and Conflict in Nigeria, participated in a panel discussing World Bank gender equality initiatives globally, and contributed as a panelist to a session on African women’s leadership in governance, peace, and security, organized by UN Women and the African Union. Additionally, I spoke at a forum on Women and Politics and attended discussions covering topics such as women’s mental health, effective approaches to addressing sexual and gender-based violence, and financing for gender empowerment programs.
A recurring theme in some of the sessions was the alarming regression of women’s progress since the Beijing Conference in 1995, exacerbated by the influence of misogynistic voices dominating social media platforms. It’s disheartening to witness younger women facing relentless attacks online, though they bravely push back. It’s unfair to see them forced to defend their sanity and dignity in such spaces. The emergence of new online narratives poses challenges where women seem unable to win – criticized for both their appearance and intellect.
The struggle with self-esteem and body image, particularly among black women, persists, with many resorting to costly and risky procedures to meet societal beauty standards, especially for online validation. It’s crucial for fathers to consistently affirm their daughters’ beauty and worth.
The recent appointment of Dr. Adaora Umeoji as the new CEO of Zenith Bank, Nigeria, sparked attention and unfortunately drew unwarranted scrutiny of her competence due to her appearance. Despite facing such challenges, Dr. Umeoji confidently asserts her expertise and professionalism, proving that she’s more than just a pretty face.
Ada Umeoji’s
In January, I engaged in a Zoom session with high school girls from an exclusive private school, where one girl asked about responding to men who ask, “What do you bring to the table?” I emphasized to them the importance of focusing on building their own tables rather than seeking validation from others. I encouraged them to harness their education and talents to create opportunities and partnerships, emphasizing equality and mutual respect in future relationships.
Dr. Umeoji’s example, among many accomplished women, serves as inspiration for young girls to craft and own their paths to success.
Source: guardian.ng
