Good morning, everyone.
Respected dignitaries, esteemed faculty of Kathmandu University, members of the Kathmandu University Computer Club, distinguished guests, and above all, the bright and ambitious youth gathered here today. It is truly a privilege to be with you at EmpowerHer 2024.
Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for inviting me as a Chief Guest to be a part of this remarkable initiative. I must commend Kathmandu University and the Computer Club for not only hosting an event like this but for leading by example in creating platforms that uplift, inspire, and empower. It is initiatives like these that lay the foundation for meaningful change, not only in our nation but also across the globe.
Importance of EmpowerHer
EmpowerHer is much more than an event. It is a celebration of courage, resilience, and determination. It is a movement that seeks to unlock the boundless potential of women and reminds us of the critical role they play in shaping our societies.
The theme of this year’s program – leadership, innovation, and skill development – is incredibly relevant. In a world that is constantly evolving, these three pillars are essential not only for personal growth but also for societal progress. By empowering women to take the reins of leadership, innovate fearlessly, and develop the skills they need to thrive, we are taking one step closer to building a more equitable and prosperous future.
I want to take a moment to applaud the efforts of all those who have made this event possible. Your dedication to empowering women and creating opportunities for them to grow and succeed is inspiring. Events like EmpowerHer plant the seeds of confidence and ambition in young minds, and I have no doubt that the impact of today’s program will be felt for years to come.
As I stand here today, I cannot help but reflect on my own journey – a journey that has been shaped by challenges, resilience, and the unwavering belief that women can and must play a central role in shaping the future of our nation.
Coming from a political family, I had the privilege of serving Nepal in various capacities, including as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. These roles allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible potential of women to lead and make a difference. But they also exposed me to the systemic challenges and biases that women face every day, both in Nepal and around the world.
As a woman in leadership, I have faced my fair share of struggles. From being underestimated to having my capabilities questioned, the road has not always been easy. Yet, every challenge became an opportunity to prove that women are just as capable – if not more – of leading with strength, compassion, and vision.
This is a message I want every young woman in this room to take to heart: challenges are not roadblocks; they are stepping stones. They are what make us stronger, more resilient, and more determined to succeed.
The Role of Leadership, Innovation, and Skills in Empowerment
Let us talk about leadership, innovation, and skill development – the three pillars of EmpowerHer 2024.
Leadership is often associated with power and authority, but true leadership is much more than that. True leadership is about service – it is about inspiring others, making decisions that uplift communities, and using your voice to advocate for those who cannot. Leadership is not limited to holding high-ranking positions; it is about taking initiative, standing up for what is right, and leading by example.
Innovation, on the other hand, is about thinking differently and creatively. It is about finding new ways to solve old problems and embracing change with courage. In today’s digital age, innovation is a driving force behind progress. It has the power to bridge gaps, break barriers, and create opportunities. For women, innovation is a powerful tool to overcome societal constraints and redefine roles.
And then there are skills – the building blocks of empowerment. Whether it is technical skills, interpersonal skills, or entrepreneurial skills, they are essential for turning aspirations into reality. The more we invest in developing our skills, the more equipped we are to navigate the complexities of the modern world and create meaningful impact.
Together, leadership, innovation, and skills form a powerful trio that can empower individuals to not only transform their own lives but also drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
The Role of Men and Allies in Empowerment
While the focus of EmpowerHer is on women, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the vital role that men and allies play in this journey. Empowering women is not a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that affects us all.
To the men in this room, I urge you to be advocates for equality. Stand with the women in your lives – your mothers, sisters, friends, and colleagues. Challenge stereotypes, call out discrimination, and use your voice to support and amplify the voices of women. Remember, gender equality benefits everyone. A society where women thrive is a society that thrives as a whole.
The Current Landscape and the Need for Collective Action
Nepal is a nation rich in culture, history, and diversity. It is a nation filled with potential, especially in its youth. However, we must acknowledge that we still have a long way to go in achieving gender equality and creating an environment where women can thrive without fear or limitations.
We must work collectively to break down the barriers that hold women back. This includes addressing issues such as access to education, workplace discrimination, and unequal opportunities. It also means challenging deep-rooted cultural norms and prejudices that perpetuate inequality.
Each one of us has a role to play in this journey. Whether you are a student, a teacher, a leader, or an entrepreneur, you have the power to create change. Together, we can build a future where every girl and woman have the opportunity to dream, to achieve, and to lead.
Call to Action: A Vision for an Inclusive Future
As we look to the future, let us envision a Nepal where women are not just participants but leaders in every field—politics, technology, business, education, and beyond. Let us strive for a society where diversity is celebrated, and where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
To the young women in this audience, I want to say this: dream big and never let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your goals. You are capable, you are strong, and you are the future. Use the opportunities you have been given to not only achieve personal success but also to lift others along the way.
And to everyone here, I urge you to embrace the spirit of EmpowerHer in your daily lives. Advocate for equality, support one another, and work together to build a better world.
As I conclude, I want to leave you with a simple yet powerful thought: When we empower women, we empower humanity. Each of us has the ability to create ripples of change, no matter how small they may seem. Let us be bold, let us be innovative, and let us lead with compassion and courage.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to be part of this incredible event. I wish you all a productive and inspiring day ahead. Together, let us continue to empower, inspire, and create a brighter future for all.
Thank you.