By Sadia Afrin Sayfa Negaban
A day more than a celebration; it is a recognition of strength, resilience, and the endless possibilities women create. The 8th of March is a day when the world pauses to celebrate International Women’s Day. However, it is not only a celebration but also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality, rights, and opportunities. The roots of this day trace back to the early twentieth century, when women began raising their voices and organizing movements to demand better working conditions, voting rights, and fair treatment. What started as determined gatherings and protests slowly grew into a powerful global movement, and at present, it’s recognized and supported by the United Nations, with a continued focus on gender equality, leadership, education, and empowerment.
Today, women are leading the way in science, politics, business, sports, and whatnot. They’re breaking barriers, driving innovation, and helping build a world that’s more inclusive and sustainable. And that’s absolutely worth celebrating. Yet challenges like unequal pay, limited education, gender-based violence, and underrepresentation in leadership remain. That’s why International Women’s Day isn’t just about appreciation; it’s also about action. It’s a reminder that progress is powerful, but real change requires commitment. Because when women are empowered, economies grow stronger. This vision connects closely with the global campaign of the Avoidable Deaths Network for International Awareness Day for Avoidable Deaths (IAD4AD), which focuses on reducing preventable disaster-related deaths. Around the world, women are often on the frontlines during disasters as caregivers, researchers, organizers, and leaders. Hence, making sure they are safe, heard, and included in decision-making isn’t just fair; it’s essential.
Before celebrating women across the world, I want to begin with the woman in my own life who shaped me into who I am today, my mother.
She empowered me, nurtured me, and made me capable enough to stay strong. She taught me values, morals, and the difference between right and wrong. Her quiet strength and endless sacrifices became the foundation of my dreams. I am also grateful to my teachers who guided me throughout my journey. While both male and female teachers inspired me, watching my female teachers who serve an important roles in department, and at the same time care for their homes and families deeply moved me. Their ability to balance so many roles with confidence and grace strengthened my belief in the power and resilience of women. And then there is my sister, my constant support system. She has been my rock, keeping me grounded while encouraging me to fly higher.
With her, I always know I am never alone. She reminds me that strength is not just about standing tall, but also about standing together.
So, as we celebrate this day and support the mission of IAD4AD, let us honor the women who inspire us, uplift young girls, and commit to building a future where equality and safety go hand in hand. Because when women rise safely and confidently, humanity rises with them.
Author’s Short Bio: Sadia Afrin graduated in Meteorology from the University of Dhaka, securing first position in her department. Her research focuses on tropical cyclones, flood risk, and climate resilience, with active involvement in climate advocacy and science communication. She serves as a Campus Ambassador at the Environment and Climate Change Hub, a Future Leader at the Avoidable Death Network, and an intern with the PEOPLE Project under WWRP.