POWER PLAY

A COLLECTIVE WILL

The unyielding power of women leaders

“If not me, who; if not now, when?”

Emma Watson

 

We celebrate the strength, resilience and ingenuity of women who are redefining the world in so many ways. Each day, women around the globe break new ground, overcome challenges, and forge bold new paths for themselves and those who follow.

Their determination drives progress, revolutionises industries and reshapes society, all the while balancing the myriad roles they embrace.

Women are the architects of change, champions of innovation and heart of thriving communities, inspiring people to dream bigger and reach higher. They have always been the backbone of communities, families and businesses, yet their contributions are often underappreciated or overlooked.

In this fifth annual edition of Essence, we set out to honour these women – the entrepreneurs, leaders and change agents who are pushing the boundaries of possibilities.

Our focus on UN Women representatives is to shine the spotlight on their transformative efforts in advancing gender equality and empowering women in Sri Lanka, spearheading impactful initiatives that strengthen the national economy, promote social progress, and foster more inclusive and equitable communities.

This focus extends to entrepreneurship and working women, emphasising the pivotal role they play in asserting their power and influence. Despite challenges such as gender bias and limited access to essential resources, these women are building industries from the ground up, crafting products and inspiring future generations to follow suit.

Through their businesses and workplaces, they shape markets and open doors for others, offering support along the way. Their stories are diverse, yet united by a shared belief in their own potential and a commitment to uplifting others.

This year, we celebrate Sri Lankan female trailblazers at the United Nations: Harshini Halangode (Country Programme Manager of UN-Habitat), Sharmalee Jayasinghe (Country Coordinator of United Nations Volunteers), Ramaaya Salgado (Head of Office of UN Women Sri Lanka) and Sanjitha Satyamurthy (Associate Protection Officer of UNHCR Sri Lanka).

Alongside them, we honour a duo of accomplished professionals in the private sector: Anjalika Kumari (QCO Data Entry Operator of Linea Aqua – Naiwala) and Amaya Madhubashini (Junior Assistant Field Officer of Clarendon Estate – Talawakelle Tea Estates).

Also featuring in this edition of Essence are two driven entrepreneurs: Tharundi Jayasuriya (Founder of Taroo Batik) and Thinesh Muraliny (Founder and Director of TMS Global).

As Essence celebrates International Women’s Day, we recognise that while progress has been made, the journey is far from over.

The challenges women face today – be it in the workplace, at home or in society – continue to demand urgent action. Yet, there is no force more powerful than the collective will of women.

– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira

HAIR AND MAKEUP
The Beauty Quest

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BUILDING INCLUSIVE URBAN CENTRES

Harshini Halangode underscores the power of urban development

Q: How has sustainable urban development changed the lives of women in underserved communities?

A: In Sri Lanka, despite progress in education and other social indicators, women’s unemployment remains double that of men. COVID-19 and the economic crisis compounded gender based discrimination such as unpaid care work, and worsened inequalities – especially within informal settlements.

Structural barriers such as homelessness, lack of affordable childcare, inadequate and unsafe public transport, and unsafe public spaces hinder women from working. Women also face unequal pay, workplace harassment and domestic violence with one in five experiencing partner violence.

With an ageing population and the need for economic growth, including women in bridging these challenges is vital. Planned, sustainable and inclusive urban development can transform women’s lives, particularly in underserved communities.

Therefore, addressing gender specific challenges and improving access to resources fosters women’s socioeconomic and political empowerment, and enhances community wellbeing – it all starts at home and comes together in cities.

The UN-Habitat Office in Sri Lanka works to improve women’s lives – particularly female headed households in cities, townships and lagging districts – through a participatory ‘people’s process’ leaving no one and no place behind.

Working with community based organisations, municipalities, government agencies and civil society, UN-Habitat supports vulnerable communities to secure land tenure, build houses, access water and address waste management, and upgrade infrastructure facilities including family and children’s healthcare centres.

Women are empowered through vocational and skills training, and equal participation in planning and decision making. Globally, the New Urban Agenda adopted by 193 UN member states promotes sustainable urbanisation and gender inclusion, by ensuring equitable access to resources, participatory governance, safe public spaces and economic opportunities.

Focussing on underserved communities, it advocates for adequate housing, infrastructure, disaster risk reduction and climate resilience planning, by addressing systemic inequalities and improving living conditions.

Women in sustainable urban development are at the heart of UN-Habitat policy and programming, driven through the leadership of UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach and Regional Representative Kazuko Ishigaki.

In Sri Lanka, despite progress in education and other social indicators, women’s unemployment remains double that of men

Q: In what ways can urban planning better integrate gender sensitivity and inclusivity?

A: Cities are epicentres of development and urbanisation is a transformative force capable of overcoming challenges.

However, unplanned urbanisation often aggravates challenges such as gender inequality, and disproportionately affects the most vulnerable – often women, children, youth, the differently able and the aged.

The triple crises of the Easter Sunday attacks, COVID-19 and the economic depression exposed and exacerbated urban inequalities, and regressed women’s rights and labour force participation.

Despite signs of economic stabilisation, poverty levels are expected to remain above 20 percent until 2026, significantly affecting the urban ‘new poor.’ Without fully harnessing women’s potential, Sri Lanka risks prolonged economic stagnation.

UN-Habitat’s research based instruments such as Her City, launched in 2021 on International Women’s Day, provides municipal professionals and urban actors with tools to integrate youth, gender and socioeconomic perspectives into urban planning and design.

This is a successful global knowledge product that has seen results and can be tailored to address issues faced by women in Sri Lanka. For instance, it promotes inclusive transport and safe public spaces to make cities more accessible for women.

Simple measures such as better street lighting, neighbourhood surveillance and gender sensitive design can reduce harassment and violence, and enable women’s active public participation.

Improved access to water, healthcare, affordable and safe accommodation, and accessible infrastructure for populations from all walks of life – especially in underserved areas – improves their wellbeing.

These improvements reduce the time and physical burden on women, and allow them to pursue education, employment or entrepreneurship. Women, especially in low and middle income households, spend a greater proportion of their income on their families, creating a multiplier effect that benefits communities, cities and the country.

Inclusive cities go beyond urban spaces as they build equitable futures where everyone thrives together.

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PROMOTING SOCIAL CHANGE FOR WOMEN

Sharmalee Jayasinghe emphasises the need for impactful change

Q: How do United Nations Volunteers (UNV) in Sri Lanka help bridge the gap in addressing community challenges – especially for women?

A: UNV offers global citizens opportunities to volunteer across the UN system with a people centred approach that exemplifies the resilience and solidarity of UN Volunteers in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In Sri Lanka, UNV serves across the UN system and contributes towards empowering local communities, by leveraging their expertise and strategic partnerships.

Through advocacy and outreach initiatives, UN Volunteers serve as peer educators among others, and support the promotion of gender equality, women’s empowerment, livelihood development, protection against gender based violence and social cohesion, while focussing on empowering local communities.

UN Volunteers also help create opportunities for women in improving social welfare and addressing gender disparities in various sectors, by promoting long-term societal shifts toward inclusivity and fostering gender sensitive practices.

Q: What is UNV doing to ensure that more women participate in volunteer leadership roles?

A: UNV actively champions gender equality by empowering women and increasing their representation in decision-making processes to create an environment where women have equal opportunities to lead.

Moreover, UNV emphasises the role of volunteerism as a tool for women’s empowerment, particularly in marginalised communities. Gender mainstreaming is a priority for UNV to ensure that related considerations are integrated across the volunteer management cycle.

UNV also sets targets for gender balance in volunteer assignments and leadership positions as it aims for gender parity. In 2024, women comprised approximately 58 percent of UN Volunteers globally, reflecting UNV’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

Volunteerism is a powerful catalyst for change and advancing gender equity in Sri Lanka

Q: How does volunteerism create a long-lasting change for gender equity in Sri Lanka?

A: Volunteerism is a powerful catalyst for change and advancing gender equity in Sri Lanka. By engaging women in meaningful roles and fostering gender collaboration, it creates pathways for social transformation.

Promoting an inclusive environment and expanding opportunities for female volunteers empowers them, by enhancing their skills and knowledge while challenging societal norms through their active participation.

Over time, these efforts shift community perceptions, and normalise women’s leadership and equal participation. Volunteerism’s ability to unite diverse perspectives makes it an enduring force for building more equitable societies.

Q: What drives your passion in leading this programme – and what impact do you hope to have?

A: My journey with UNV has been long and inspiring, filled with passion, purpose and dedication. When I first joined UNV, I didn’t realise the journey I was embarking on would shape my professional life and personal values.

UNV offers more than a career; it’s a chance to be a catalyst for change and work with deeply committed individuals who embody the values of volunteerism. One of the most rewarding aspects has been mentoring, guiding and inspiring the next generation, watching them grow into leadership roles across the UN system and beyond.

Over the years, my passion for volunteerism has only deepened, inspired by the immense power and spirit of thousands of volunteers contributing to building resilient communities, fostering inclusion and supporting people in need, particularly during crises.

I am proud of our efforts in advocating for the recognition and promotion of volunteering, as it is a prominent part of development agendas and plays a crucial role in achieving SDGs.

Recently, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development to recognise and celebrate the crucial role volunteers play in achieving peace, sustainable development and social cohesion.

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EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH CRAFT

Tharundi Jayasuriya reflects on the challenges facing an evolving sector

Q: What role does batik designing play in empowering women in your community?

A: Batik designing plays a significant role in empowering women, particularly by providing them with financial independence and economic support. Many women in rural areas possess remarkable talent but lack a platform to showcase their skills.

By offering training in batik designing, we can help them build confidence and become self-sufficient. This not only uplifts women as individuals but also strengthens their role as mothers, and contributes to the wellbeing of their families and communities.

Through my work, I have witnessed how batik serves as a powerful tool for women to achieve financial independence. By engaging them in various aspects of the production process – be it designing, dyeing or finishing – they secure a means of livelihood, in addition to a sense of purpose and self-confidence.

Empowering women through this craft fosters a network of trust and mutual growth, and creates a community where everyone thrives together.

Q: How do you innovate while maintaining the traditional techniques of batik?

A: I begin by understanding the client’s vision. In today’s rapidly evolving climate, it can be challenging to preserve traditional batik designs. And I incorporate unique motifs that blend classic Sri Lankan designs with global influences, and create patterns that tell both local and universal stories.

I’m also experimenting with eco-friendly dyes to align with sustainability goals.

Throughout the process, I emphasise the use of natural lighting to enhance the authenticity and beauty of the designs.

It would be a significant advantage if the government could introduce stricter policies to protect traditional batik production

Q: What support do you feel is needed from the government or organisations to sustain and grow the creation of batik fabrics?

A: The main challenge we face is the high cost of raw materials, which includes not only the fabric but also the tools and chemicals required for production. This has become our largest expense.

If the government could offer concessionary interest rates for loans, it would be immensely beneficial to us. Another concern is the market, particularly the impact of technology.  We are also facing competition from online alternatives. It would help greatly if batik designers were offered more opportunities to showcase their work at exhibitions.

Additionally, when batik designs are available locally, the import of similar materials hampers our efforts. It would be a significant advantage if the government could introduce stricter policies to protect traditional batik production.

Q: How do you balance the artistic aspect of your work with the challenges of making a living from it?

A: I experiment with different colours and techniques, use wax as a medium to explore new ideas and push creative boundaries.

And I draw inspiration from my customers and their preferences, while also exploring platforms such as YouTube and Pinterest to discover fresh design concepts. This enables me to stay innovative and continuously evolve my work.

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STRIKING A WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Anjalika Kumari relates her inspiring journey in the apparel industry

Q: How can women in your industry be empowered to grow into leadership roles?

A: A lot of women in the apparel industry hesitate to step into leadership roles.

There is a fear of working alongside or challenging male colleagues in higher positions. Others worry about managing the work-life balance or how leadership might affect their responsibilities as wives or homemakers.

But if women learn of their true capacity, they can be motivated to grow. Organisations play a huge role in providing training, encouragement and support, to help women overcome these fears and highlight their strengths.

It is important for women to understand that in reality, we have the capacity to be leaders at any level despite designations or gender.

Q: How do you balance your academic pursuits with work responsibilities?

A: I joined MAS after the GCE A-Level exam to support my family financially. Since joining the company, it has supported me in my education – and MAS has become a learning hub for me in terms of continuing my academic pursuits while I work.

I began with Lean related training at MAS, and this taught me valuable lessons on working efficiently and smartly.

It was challenging at times to submit reports and handle work responsibilities but I was determined to manage my time well. The company supported me by creating a second layer to handle my duties when I needed time off for studies.

This allowed me to pursue an external online degree, which in turn improved my performance at work. I also took the initiative to self-learn areas such as production, designing, marketing and accounting.

I saw every challenge and opportunity as part of a learning curve and this mindset has helped me advance my career.

It’s necessary for apparel manufacturers to recognise and support female team members to strike a work-life balance

 Q: What changes would you like to see for women working in the apparel industry?

A: People tend to have a poor impression of the apparel industry. I hope this perception will change, and society will see how valuable this industry can be for women’s safety, wellbeing and development.

We have the same standards and work environment as any other industry. And it supports the country by earning foreign exchange – our team members play an important role in this effort.

Therefore, it’s necessary for apparel manufacturers to recognise and support female team members to strike a work-life balance, and also address pregnancy, childcare, mental wellbeing and female related health issues.

At MAS, these areas are handled with care, and we’re offered awareness, training and support on women’s health and wellness, reproductive health, prevention of gender based violence etc.

If more organisations adopt this approach, it will empower more women to grow and thrive.

Q: What advice would you offer other women in the apparel industry who want to grow within their organisations?

A: Your success should not be hindered simply because you are a woman. Focus on a smart approach to work, as well as a work hard mindset. Learn methods such as the Japanese Kaizen method to help you improve and work smarter.

Understanding how to balance your personal life with work, as well as learning communication skills and people handling, is very important. It’s also important to pursue learning and education outside the training offered in your workplace. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

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BREAKING NORMS TO CREATE OPENINGS

Amaya Madhubashini reminisces about her journey of overcoming challenges

Q: What are the main challenges you face in your work? And how do you overcome them?

A: Field officers are traditionally male but I was entrusted by the management to oversee a division of Clarendon Estate – a position that had always been held by men.

The main challenge has been breaking this norm and proving that I can excel in a position typically dominated by men.

There’s a widespread belief that women are incapable of handling such responsibilities and that hiring them for such roles would be a mistake. However, my work and dedication challenged this perception – and the management recognised my abilities and appointed me to this role.

I oversee 50 tea harvesters, manage their operations and handle all responsibilities previously assigned to male officers at Clarendon Estate. When I stepped into this role, I encountered several challenges but remained focussed on proving my capabilities.

Today, I’m proud to be in a position where I can successfully manage an entire division, and prove that women are equally capable of excelling in roles traditionally dominated by men.

Q: How do you balance your responsibilities of work and family life?

A: I transitioned from the supermarket field into this role after seeing a vacancy posted on social media. I applied and was interviewed – and was fortunate to be shortlisted and assigned to a division. It’s been more than a year since I began working on the estate.

Before my arrival, the division faced a high turnover rate with frequent resignations occurring almost monthly. However, with encouragement and support from management, I was determined to make a difference. Together, we were able to elevate the division’s performance and move it up to fourth place.

To prepare for this role, I underwent a comprehensive nine month training programme, which covered all aspects of estate management from crop fertilisation to daily operations. I also performed well in the exams.

Balancing work and family has been challenging but I’m grateful for my husband’s unwavering support. As my greatest strength, he has enabled me to excel in my job while we raise our four year old daughter, who is cared for by my mother.

I aspire to advance in this field and am extremely grateful to Talawakelle Tea Estates for creating opportunities that empower women and support their growth.

I’m proud to be in a position where I can successfully manage an entire division

Q: What role does tea production play in uplifting your community – especially for women?

A: The majority of tea harvesters are women and Talawakelle Tea Estates has been a great strength for them.

While there are still a considerable number of men, the environment has shifted positively for women. In the past, women were often hesitant to speak up if they were unwell or facing challenges. This has changed over time.

Today, women feel more empowered to express themselves openly, whether they’re sick or dealing with difficulties. This supportive atmosphere – especially when working in groups of women – fosters a sense of comfort and openness, and helps them communicate their concerns without hesitation.

 

Q: And what improvements would you like to see in the lives of women in your field?

A: Field workers are provided with essential facilities including toilets – this is a commendable initiative, which is being implemented.

Traditionally, all team leaders are men, but appointing women to these positions could bring significant benefits as it will eliminate some of the challenges that women face when working with male supervisors.

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TURNING TRIALS INTO TRIUMPHS

Thinesh Muraliny describes her experiences in food processing

Q: What inspired you to pursue food processing as an entrepreneurial venture – and what does it mean to you?

A: My journey began in 2009 when I became the sole provider for my two children following the untimely passing of my husband.

With limited income from working in a company, I was inspired to launch a business to support my family. I began with only three products and have since expanded the portfolio to over 40; and I supply both local and export markets.

Despite these efforts, the income I generate is only sufficient to meet the basic needs of my family as both my children are still pursuing their education.

What inspired me to pursue food processing as an entrepreneurial venture was the desire to secure a better future for my family. During challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, I realised the potential of using domestic resources to add value to my work.

This helped me support my family, and reinforced the importance of resilience, innovation and making the most of what we have. To me, food processing is not simply a business; it’s a way to ensure stability, contribute to the community and build a legacy for my children.

Q: What challenges do you face as a processed food entrepreneur? And how can they be addressed?

A: As a processed food entrepreneur, I face several challenges. One of the primary hurdles relates to new product development, particularly issues with distribution and the availability of suitable machinery.

However, I have been able to address these challenges with the support of organisations such as the Asia Foundation, which have provided me with valuable assistance.

Another major challenge is the realisation that traditional education alone isn’t always sufficient to ensure financial stability. Instead, creating and running my own business has shown me a practical path to earning a livelihood.

My goal is to inspire others by demonstrating that entrepreneurship can empower individuals to overcome financial difficulties and achieve success.

Q: How can the younger generation be encouraged to pursue entrepreneurship?

A: To encourage the younger generation to pursue entrepreneurship, I’d urge them to focus on leveraging domestic resources combined with modern technology. This approach will enable them to create their own income streams while contributing meaningfully to the economy.

More importantly, this should be done in a manner that preserves our traditions and promotes the wellbeing of society, by fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

My goal is to inspire others by demonstrating that entrepreneurship can empower individuals to overcome financial difficulties and achieve success

Q: What would it mean to you if more recognition and support is offered to women in your sector?

A: Recognition and support for women in the processed food sector will have a profound impact on my journey as an entrepreneur. Currently, I face challenges in marketing my products, which limits my ability to reach larger markets.

With support such as quality certifications and access to resources, I can focus on expanding my business to foreign markets, create new employment opportunities and contribute more significantly to the economy.

My vision is to capture foreign markets by identifying suitable investors and leveraging opportunities to scale my business further.

With the necessary recognition and support, I’m confident that I can grow my enterprise, extend its impact and secure a better future for my family while empowering others in my community.

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GENDER EQUALITY IS A SHARED MISSION

Ramaaya Salgado emphasises the importance of empowering women

 Q: How does UN Women address the unique challenges faced by females in Sri Lanka to achieve gender equality?

A: In our effort to uphold women’s rights and advance gender equality, UN Women works with the government and other partners to formulate national policies, and advocate for systemic change.

We also engage with communities to deliver programming on four priority areas, as follows: economic empowerment to ensure women have income security, decent work and economic autonomy; promoting women’s leadership and political participation to ensure they’re in spaces where decisions are being made; prevention of gender based violence to ensure that women and girls, and people of other genders, can live a life free from all forms of violence; and promoting women’s engagement in peace building efforts.

Q: What are the most pressing issues women in Sri Lanka face today? And how is UN Women driving change?

A: Some of the most pressing issues faced by women stem from harmful social norms. These include issues such as gender based violence, discrimination in the workplace, and lower representation of women in politics and other leadership positions where women’s capabilities are undermined, and violence and discrimination are normalised.

Through our programmes, we not only empower women but also engage with the people around them such as spouses and families, to challenge attitudes that are ultimately harmful to everyone. When women are treated as equals, they’re empowered to make informed decisions about their lives, and more likely to have equal opportunities and access to resources.

Therefore, these programmes contribute to long-term change by enabling an environment where women and girls can reach their full potential.

Advancing gender equality is a matter of human rights – that’s what motivates me to continue to work with and for the women of Sri Lanka

Q: How do you envision the role of men in fostering gender equality meaningfully, here in Sri Lanka?

A: The first step is understanding that gender equality is not simply a women’s issue. Gender equality benefits everyone and fosters inclusive communities, strengthens economies and promotes sustainable development.

Engaging men and boys in conversations about gender equality, especially from a young age, is crucial to challenging harmful attitudes that perpetuate inequalities.

Men have an important role to play in fostering a culture of respect and inclusion by educating their peers and the younger generation about treating women and those of other genders as equals.

As allies, they can amplify women’s voices and speak out when they see discrimination and injustice within their own groups.

Q: What motivates you to continue advocating for women’s rights and empowerment?

A: This year marks the 30^th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, where people from every part of the world committed to achieve gender equality through the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

Despite significant strides made over the past three decades, progress for gender equality has been slow and women’s rights are regressing.

Reports show that it could take another 286 years to remove discriminatory laws and close the global gender gap in legal protection for women and girls. Gender disparities are worsening, and recent reports have highlighted an alarming increase in crimes against women and girls in Sri Lanka.

Advancing gender equality is a matter of human rights – that’s what motivates me to continue to work with and for the women of Sri Lanka.

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LEADERSHIP IN HUMANITARIAN CRISES

Sanjitha Satyamurthy elaborates on championing refugee women’s rights

 Q: Refugee women and girls often face immense challenges. How does the UNHCR address their specific needs in this country?

A: Women and girls are often disproportionately affected by events leading up to and during forcible displacement, and they face unique challenges that demand thoughtful and targeted responses.

UNHCR and its partners prioritise understanding their specific needs by directly engaging with them – both individually and collectively – to create safe spaces for open dialogue about their concerns.

Based on this assessment, we are able to provide the appropriate support or seek assistance such as psychosocial assistance, access to healthcare and skills building in collaboration with other organisations including United Nations agencies, civil society groups, healthcare providers or local charitable organisations that are equipped to support.

In Sri Lanka, refugees and asylum seekers don’t have the legal right to work, and this makes life very challenging – particularly for women who are often primary caregivers.

In the past, UNHCR worked with many implementing partners, civil society organisations, and charitable individuals and donors in Sri Lanka, to provide vocational training and other empowerment programmes.

These initiatives help women and girls build skills, and enhance their resilience and self-reliance even within restrictive circumstances.

Q: What initiatives are in place to ensure the safety and dignity of refugee women in Sri Lanka?

A: Safety and dignity begin with registration. All refugees – whether they’re women or men, boys or girls – should be registered with UNHCR, and issued identification documents such as an ID or refugee certificate.

Registration is a critical protection tool that enables the early identification of individuals with specific needs and ensures their referral for specific or targeted protection assistance.

In Sri Lanka, registration and issuance of UNHCR identification cards constitute individual identity, and allow refugees and asylum seekers to access basic assistance and protection especially against ‘refoulement.’ This process is also a means of empowering women by affirming their identity and facilitating freedom of movement.

UNHCR has prioritised ensuring that refugees, and asylum seeking women and girls, have access to law enforcement and legal mechanisms – including the Police Children and Women Bureau – to address security related issues and incidents of gender based violence (GBV).

We are grateful to the Government of Sri Lanka for providing physical protection.

I believe that leadership in humanitarian crises demands empathy, creativity and pragmatism

Q: How does being a woman leader influence your approach to addressing humanitarian crises?

A: I believe that leadership in humanitarian crises demands empathy, creativity and pragmatism. My approach is based on understanding the needs of affected people, and identifying appropriate ways to address those needs and improve their situation however possible.

As a female I may have a deeper understanding of the particular concerns faced by women and girls. However, with nearly 15 years of experience as a humanitarian and having lived through the conflict in Sri Lanka, I have an equal understanding of the needs of men and boys; and I’m aware of their inter-linkages and interdependence.

In seeking solutions to humanitarian crises, I draw from my past experiences to think outside the box and identify the best available options. I try to use my experience to think beyond conventional solutions and explore innovative approaches that address the root causes of displacement while fostering long-term resilience.

Q: What message would you like to share with women who are experiencing displacement and hardship?

A: Don’t lose hope – even in the smallest of opportunities, there is strength. Your resilience inspires us and you are not alone. There are people and systems in place to support you.