Irenitemi Somuyiwa-Mbeha, a multi-media journalist at BBC Africa, has called on women worldwide to speak out and let their voices be heard when they face challenges.
Mbeha disclosed this while speaking at “Her Voice,” a virtual Meet-Up event organised by Creatives Nigeria to mark International Women’s Day.
She said, “We need to keep talking about what we go through. It puts a spotlight on the issue we are talking about. Talk to people who can help bring about change, people who can amplify your voice and bring about change. “
Irenitemi says that as a journalist, she has helped to highlight issues about women through various stories. “I try to write stories about gender inequality and Injustice women face. Equality will allow everyone to speak out. Women should take a side and speak up so certain things do not continue. Everybody’s voice is essential and can contribute to bringing about the change we are looking for. “
Irenitemi says to Accelerate Action. As highlighted in this year’s International Women’s Day, more women should take leadership roles and be fully represented at forums where decisions are made concerning them.
Similarly, she said Injustice thrives where there is a lack of education; hence, women must be educated and learn about the world to make quality decisions.
In the same vein, the programme’s anchor, Khabo Masanabo, a Business Development Analyst, says if allowed to push for a policy that will benefit all women, it will be that every woman should be educated.
She said, “If I am to push for a policy to help women, it will be for every woman to have quality education. Having a woman with a quality education will help her make the right decisions about her health, family, and life. I will advocate for affordable education in the early stages for girls so they can be enlightened .”
Another Speaker, Helena Taylor, who works in the Technology space, called for more research about women’s bodies to help them better understand their anatomy.
To accelerate action and bring about change, Helen Asimegbe, a business analyst and a participant at the event, highlighted some actions that need to be taken.
She said, ” Policy Reforms relating to women must be enforced. There should be a legal framework for promoting economic empowerment amongst women. Education and skills acquisition for women must be advocated for. There should be support for women who face Gender-Based Violence, and the use of technology to proffer solutions to grow businesses must be encouraged.”
She urged women to provide support for other women who have faced Gender-Based Violence and lift each other in the face of challenges.
“I will ask women to build each other up and find a community in other women because they understand what they are going through, “Taylor said.
Makoji Kelvin Ibrahim, founder of The Creatives Nigeria and convener of the “Her Voice” Meet-up, said the programme is a safe place for women to share their experiences and grow.
Makoji said: “Each Meet-up is designed to create a comfortable, inclusive space where women can feel supported, valued and empowered. We will ensure it is a space for open dialogue and personal growth. We aim to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations about issues women face globally.”
