We go on celebrating many holidays, events, etc but we do not take time to celebrate the ‘salt’ of the economy. Yes, The Women!! Women involvement in the activities of the economy brings a difference, hence they are the salt of a growing economy.
The issue of gender inequality has over a decade been taking it’s toll on women in our society. It is believed that women should not be given the chance to compete with men for some positions. This should not be so.
It’s 8th of March again, let’s take our time to celebrate the strong women who have impacted immensely in the lives of younger women and girls. Women who have fought and still fighting for gender equality nationally and internationally.
International Women’s Day, IWD, is a worldwide day of celebrating women every 8th of March. It is a special day that shows respect for the achievements women have made in various aspect of life: political, social, science, education etc. The main aim of the global day is to inspire women.
Over a century, women’s achievements have been celebrated worldwide. Each year comes with a new theme. The theme for this year is PRESS FOR PROGRESS
“We can’t be complacent. Now, more than ever, there’s a strong call-to-action to press forward and progress gender parity”
“A strong call to #PressforProgress. A strong call to motivate and unite friends, colleagues and whole communities to think, act and be gender inclusive.”
HOW WE CAN HELP
Travel companies can help local businesses in so many ways. Tourists are a strong factor in business growth at every country they visit. Tours shouldn’t just be fun or adventure focused all the time. Planning experiences to women focused NGOs or establishments in a locality is a great way of pledging your support. Here are ways you can help out directly or indirectly!
PLAN AN EXPERIENCE TO A WOMEN FOCUSED BUSINESS
For example, during our Nomad’s in Rwanda trip we visited the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for a walking tour and basket weaving classes. We are hoping to visit the Henna Cafe in Morocco which is a not for profit establishment created to give back to the city of Marrakesh. The Henna Cafe employs local women highly experienced in the art of Henna and by patronizing them, we are ensuring these women are empowered.
“Nyamirambo Women’s Center (NWC), a Rwandan NGO, was launched at the end of 2007 by 18 Rwandese women living in Nyamirambo, Kigali. Together they created a project which aimed to address gender-based violence, gender inequality and discrimination. Today, NWC’s mission is to provide education and vocational training to women who do not have the means to pay for such training on their own, so that they can gain better opportunities for employment”.
REACH OUT TO THEM AND HELP ADVERTISE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Tourists can reach out to women involved in local businesses and give them support. Reaching out to local business owners, especially the women who do not have the privilege to grow their business may be a blessing to them. There are many local businesses with huge potential and a lack of support is one major factor these businesses face.
When on tours, within and outside the country, tour companies can reach out to small businesses around them. This way, they get to know and understand the challenges these women are facing. They can also help the women advertise their businesses on their numerous social media pages. We know how great a tool social media is when it comes to advertising. Once two to three people get the advertisement and love it, it begins to spread and it makes people want to purchase the service or product being advertised.
RAISE FUNDS
Travel companies can also help raise funds for these women to expand their business. There are some local businesses that all they need is just funds to boost their service. Lack of which has made their business remain stagnant. You can inform your tourists your intention to give back to a woman run establishment or business in a destination you are exploring. Everyone donates something and its handed over to the business owner.
GOT A SKILL? OFFER IT FOR FREE!
Also, training’s and seminars can be organized for the business owners to improve the services they are offering and the products they want to sell. Tourists with different skills can come up with free training classes and teach these women how to improve on their business. Training could range from customer service or marketing to sales and supply. Whatever you feel you can offer, do not hesitate to share!
It is Women’s Day today, how do you want to make an impact in someone’s life? We take up the challenge to help at least one woman at any travel destination we find ourself. It is a great achievement if impact is made in the life of one woman.
