By Grace Pinto
Managing Director
Ryan International Group of Institutions

Mar 8: "The fastest way to change society is to mobilise women of the world." This statement of Charles Malik, former President of UN General Assembly beautifully highlights the significant role of women in society. History is filled with examples of women’s continuous contribution to social, economic and cultural spheres. Women have fought against all odds to emerge as world changers. The International Women’s day is a wonderful occasion to celebrate acts of courage and inspiring works done by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary roleto bring about transformation. It is the day to look back on history with pride for having come so far as the contribution of women has been overwhelming and colossal. We salute all the extraordinary women who have gone before us and others who will emerge from amongst us! It is also a day to remember the many women whose voices go unheard and who continue to be excluded from realizing their full potential.

The woman is an important pillar of society. She has been bestowed upon capability of playing multiple roles such as mother, wife, sister, daughter, friend and a professional in her respective role at work place. She has the power to create, nurture and transform. Proverbs has rightly said, "Woman is clothed with strength and dignity…."

Unlike yesteryears, today, woman is considered the key to sustainable development; a source of progress, because of her noteworthy contribution in various fields. We see a notable change in society’s approach towards women. The change is vivid, be it in the fields of education, healthcare, or job opportunities. Women have made strides in every field as they are now more empowered and aware of their rights, dignity and capabilities.

Speaking from my own personal experience, I believe that the woman has the power to transform the society. God has created woman with a special plan. Today, I am grateful to our Lord Jesus for His continual grace in fulfilling the vision to reach out to the children of our nation and to the poor and needy of the society. I have the joy of providing free education to more than 20% students in our schools which include the children of windows, single parents, less privileged children and children of all our Class IV employees. I give full credit to God for all theseworks accomplished through me as a woman leader. Mother Teresa who is my role model has beautifully said, "I know God will not give me anything I can’t handle. I just wish that He didn’t trust me so much." It is with passion, compassion and determination we have been providing quality education and developing lifelong learners through our schools. As a woman, over the years I have learnt what Eleanor Roosevelt would say, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." Be proud to be a woman.

The woman is the very foundation of family and society, playing a vital role in the odyssey of life that endows her with a sense of honour, dignity and self-respect for being the person she is. Over the centuries, women trailblazers and pioneers have added to human knowledge and skill in every field. While this international day reminds us about millions of women across the globe who have no proper access to education, health care and equal opportunity, it also exhorts us to connect with all women to inspire them celebrate their womanhood with an assurance that the future is bright, equal, safe and rewarding. In conclusion, this is my message to all women, "Forward ever, backward never…"