Equality? A choice always begins with you

Phenomenal! That’s the first word that comes to my mind when I think of a woman as a creature. A woman is a maker. It is said whatever you give to a woman, she multiplies - and so I posit that the Biblical parable of the talents would not work the same way if all the protagonists were women, as I am sure that not one of them would have buried the talent!  So, then think of a world where a woman is given a chance to be herself. A chance to fully actualise herself - whether by the opportunity to work (even if she might earn more than her husband), or to otherwise exhaust her potential with no criticism from the society.

What a privilege to be born a woman and particularly in an age where there is a continual encouragement for participation of women at all levels, whether in business, politics, technology or social participation.  And yet, although we have made progress, we are still far from achieving a 100% equality.

I believe that the first lessons on our ways of life are first taught in our families. This is the foundation.  If equality begins there, then we will no longer need to play the same song every day. Growing up in a society where roles have been categorised based on one’s gender and not ability should not be a cup that our future generation should take. It is easier to mentor a child and clearly show them what gender equality really means; so that both a girl and boy can have confidence that all are equal and can both bring positive contributions to society, whether technologically, socially, politically or economically.

If we are to meet this aspiration then we must make it our responsibility to teach the growing generation while still at a tender age what equality really means. Let us create the space for them to have a chance to speak freely and to stand up for what they believe in, so that they build the confidence to speak up when something is wrong and stand up for what is right. Having the courage to challenge systems, ways of life and discrimination is a mindset that we need to inculcate. Indeed, if gender equality is built in one’s mind, then this will be reflected in one’s way of life.

So the challenge is for everyone to address the issue, and if we do then I believe we will have only a few rivers to cross before we ultimately reach where we want to. Today, I Choose to Challenge. I challenge you to speak where something is not right, where you feel offended, where you feel you are being mistreated. I challenge you to compliment someone who is doing their best, to give a clap to that woman who is giving it all in her work. I challenge you to be a mentor of good and be an instrument of growth. Let us all Choose to Challenge.

By Nengilang'et Lovililo, Associate - Tax Services at PwC Tanzania.