First Lady Fazna Ahmed has called on the public to cultivate a culture of respecting women. She made the statement today while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 'Resilient and Relentless; Her Story' exhibition at Goidhoo of Baa Atoll.
The exhibition portrays the stories of girls and women who contribute to society through different professions and aspects of life. The exhibition aims to create awareness among the public on gender stereotyping and the importance of abolishing negative societal norms.
Speaking at the ceremony, First Lady Fazna said that women had been downplayed by our society for generations and that women should uplift other women in promoting gender equality and breaking gender norms.
Speaking to the girls at the ceremony, the First Lady noted that although the society expects girls to attend to household chores and to look after their siblings from a young age, they should carefully consider their options and follow their dreams. Stressing that every girl must be allowed to make their own choices while growing up, First Lady Fazna Ahmed encouraged girls to choose their careers based on their own free will and to do so with passion.
The exhibition hosted by Advocating the Rights of Children (ARC), is among the activities to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. The day aims to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls face, while promoting empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights. The theme for this year is GirlForce: Unscripted and Unstoppable.
First Lady Fazna Ahmed will also participate in the ‘Role of Men in bringing up Girls Session' and 'Women and Family Law Session' scheduled to be held tonight.
