Men should get pregnant and carry babies for 4.5 months! Why should women do all the work of carrying babies for 9 whole months? This was little me at 9 years asking my mother these questions challenging gender norms.

 I wanted to know why only women have babies?

Why not Men too?

Or better still Why not share the “work”?

Of course, my mother laughed it off & said “That’s just the way it is. Women have babies”.

My next question – But, why is it that women have babies, look after them, cook, take care of the house & work outside too?

Can’t men cook & look after babies or the house?

40 + years later, the questions remain the same.

 Challenging Gender Norms

• 20 million women have dropped out of the workforce in the last 5 years alone.
•  Studies show that women spend 4 hours and 25 minutes a day doing unpaid care work as opposed to men who only spend 1 hour and 23 minutes.
•  A total of 184 countries provide an average leave of 98 days for new moms, while paternity leave is provided in 105 economies for a median of only 5 days.
•  69% of female employees claim society pressures them to put their careers aside for the sake of their family making it impossible to maintain a work-life balance.  
•  The research findings, published by the Universities of Bristol and Essex for the Government Equalities Office (GEO), found that just 28 per cent of women were in full-time or self-employed work three years after childbirth, compared to 90 per cent of new fathers.
•  A quarter (26 per cent) of men had been promoted or moved to a better job in the first five years following parenthood, that figure dropped to 13 per cent for women.

What is the solution?

 No, I am not advocating remaining single or not choosing to be a mother. That is an individual choice that each of us makes. But, there are some solutions which have worked for me & 100’s other women which I am sharing here.

• Planning your pregnancy
• Discussing the timelines & financials with your partner before taking the plunge
• Keeping a “child care fund” aside to meet expenses on paid help
• Articulating & agreeing upon the role of your partner & family members (Parents/in-laws, siblings)
• Communicating to all stakeholders that your career is not an option, but an integral part of your Life
• Becoming so good at what you do that your retention & advancement at work become non negotiable
• Prioritising your career & making intelligent choices so that your earnings contribute significantly to the family
• Dealing with the SIP syndrome (superwoman/imposter/primary caregiver) by being more compassionate & accepting of yourself.
• Sharing childcare & housework with your partner.
•  Draw on your “buddy” network of new & experienced Moms for support & guidance in navigating this phase
•  Negotiating flexible work timings or WFH with your organisation
•  Prioritising your health & fitness so that you have the energy to work till it is possible pre-pregnancy
• Overcoming “Mom guilt” & societal expectations by believing in your choices & Abilities

 What can be done?

We Can’t Do it ALL…..

And, we certainly can’t do it alone.

 But what we can do is –

 Work on ourselves & our limiting beliefs

Work on leveraging our eco-system for support

Believe in our “deservability” & negotiate for the value we deserve

Own & Claim our Power

to

Find an equal place under the Sun.

Do you believe You deserve it ALL?

For centuries, empowered females have been struggling to break free from the shackles of gender stereotypes and discrimination. The fight for gender equality has been long and arduous, with many women facing systemic barriers and societal pressures that prevent them from achieving their full potential. However, empowered women have been able to shatter these stereotypes and prove that they are just as capable, if not more so, than their male counterparts.

Empowered Females

Empowered females are important for many reasons. Firstly, they are able to live their lives to the fullest, pursuing their goals and aspirations, and making positive contributions to their communities and societies. When women have equal access to resources and opportunities, they can participate fully in the economy, politics, and other aspects of public life, leading to a more inclusive and diverse society. Additionally, empowering women leads to better health outcomes, improved education, and reduced poverty levels. This has a ripple effect, creating more stable families, communities, and even nations. Women’s empowerment also promotes gender equality, breaking down harmful gender stereotypes and creating a more just and equal world for all. In short, empowered women are essential for promoting progress and creating a better world for everyone.

Empowered females are crucial for the well-being and progress of our planet for several reasons:

1. Gender equality: When women are empowered, gender equality is promoted, breaking down harmful gender stereotypes and improving social and economic opportunities for all individuals.
2. Improved health and education outcomes: Empowered women are more likely to seek out health services and education opportunities, leading to improved health and education outcomes for themselves, their families, and their communities.
3. Stronger economies: Studies have shown that when women have equal access to resources and opportunities, entire economies can benefit. This can lead to increased productivity and reduced poverty levels.
4. Better environmental outcomes: Empowered women are more likely to participate in environmental conservation and sustainable development efforts, leading to improved environmental outcomes and the preservation of natural resources.
5. Peaceful societies: Women’s empowerment can also lead to more peaceful societies, as women tend to prioritize conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.

Empowered women possess a unique power and influence that transcends societal expectations and limitations. When women are empowered, they are more likely to speak up, take risks, and challenge the status quo. Empowered women have the confidence and the courage to pursue their dreams, even in the face of opposition and adversity. They are more likely to advocate for themselves and others, and they have the ability to effect positive change in their communities and beyond.

One of the most significant barriers that women face is the gender pay gap. Despite progress in recent years, women still earn less than men for doing the same work. This pay disparity can have a significant impact on women’s financial stability and career prospects, making it difficult for them to achieve economic independence and stability. However, empowered women are working to close this gap by advocating for equal pay and negotiating for better salaries and benefits. By breaking down this barrier, they are creating a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Empowered women are also shattering stereotypes that have held women back for centuries. Society has long imposed rigid gender roles and expectations on women, dictating how they should look, act, and behave. Empowered females are challenging these stereotypes by refusing to conform to outdated norms and expectations. They are embracing their individuality, pursuing their passions, and living life on their own terms. By doing so, they are inspiring other women to do the same and creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

Moreover, empowered females are leading the charge in creating a more sustainable and equitable world. Women have long been at the forefront of environmental and social justice movements, advocating for a better world. Empowered women are leading these efforts by promoting sustainable practices, fighting for climate justice, and advocating for greater social and economic equality. By doing so, they are creating a more just and equitable world for everyone.

In short, empowered females play a critical role in driving progress and promoting a better world for all. By investing in women’s empowerment, we are investing in a better future for everyone.

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Bone strengthening exercises are crucial for women to build and maintain strong bones as they age. As women naturally lose bone density and strength over time, the risk of fractures and osteoporosis increases. However, performing exercises that stimulate bone growth and increase bone density can lower the risk of developing these conditions. In this regard, here are some recommended workouts that can help women build and maintain strong bones.

Bone Strengthening Exercises

1. Weightlifting

Weightlifting is a great workout that helps to build strong bones. Strength training exercises that involve using weights or resistance bands can be particularly helpful in stimulating bone growth and increasing bone density. Squats, deadlifts, and lunges are some of the most effective weightlifting exercises that target the lower body and build bone strength in the hips, thighs, and lower back.

It’s important to use proper form and technique while weightlifting to avoid injury. It’s also necessary to gradually increase the weight and intensity of the exercises over time. For women who are new to weightlifting, working with a certified personal trainer can be helpful in learning proper techniques and creating a safe and effective workout plan.

2) Yoga

Yoga is another excellent workout that can help to stimulate bone growth and improve balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Certain yoga poses like downward dog, warrior II, and tree pose target the lower body and help to build bone strength in the hips, thighs, and lower back.

Yoga is a low-impact workout and is an excellent option for women who want to build bone strength without putting too much stress on their joints. Yoga can also help to reduce stress and improve overall mental and physical health.

High-impact activities such as running, jumping jacks, and jumping rope are also beneficial for building strong bones as they put stress on the bones and stimulate bone growth and increase bone density. These activities are particularly effective for building bone strength in the legs and feet. However, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of the activities over time to avoid injury. Women who are new to high-impact activities should work with a certified personal trainer or physical therapist to learn proper techniques and create a safe and effective workout plan.

3) Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise that combines gentle movements with deep breathing and relaxation techniques. Tai Chi can help women improve their balance, flexibility, and muscle strength, all of which can contribute to strong bones. Tai Chi is also a great workout for reducing stress and improving overall mental and physical health. It’s a gentle and calming exercise that can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels.

4) Pilates

Pilates is a low-impact exercise that focuses on core strength and stability. Pilates exercises can help women improve their posture and reduce the risk of falls. Many Pilates exercises involve putting stress on the bones in a controlled manner, which helps to stimulate bone growth and increase bone density. Women who are new to Pilates should work with a certified Pilates instructor to learn proper techniques and create a safe and effective workout plan.

In conclusion, there are many workouts that women can do to build strong bones. Weightlifting, yoga, high-impact activities, Tai Chi, and Pilates are all excellent options. However, it’s essential to use proper form and technique while doing these workouts, gradually increase the weight and intensity of the exercises over time, and work with certified trainers or instructors to avoid injury and create a safe and effective workout plan.

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‘Women supporting women‘ can drive progress and make a massive impact on our planet’s success, forming the backbone of a successful movement. Women from diverse backgrounds unite in their mission to create a positive impact on our planet through the transformative power of supporting each other. The power of women supporting each other cannot be overstated. When women come together to support one another, they are able to achieve things that would be impossible for them to achieve alone. This is because when women work together, they are able to pool their resources, share their knowledge, and support each other through the ups and downs of life.

Women Supporting Women

One of the most important ways that women support each other is by sharing their stories. By sharing their stories, women are able to inspire and empower others and create a sense of community and solidarity. This is particularly important when it comes to changing our planet because it is only by working together that we will be able to create a more sustainable and equitable world.

Another way that women support each other is by sharing their skills and expertise. Women are often underrepresented in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and by sharing their skills and expertise with each other, they are able to break down barriers and create new opportunities for themselves and others.

Of course, women supporting each other is not just about professional development. It is also about supporting each other through the challenges and joys of everyday life. Whether it is offering a listening ear, providing a shoulder to cry on, or celebrating each other’s successes, women are there for each other through thick and thin.

The benefits of women supporting each other are clear, but it is important to recognize that this is not always an easy task. Women are often pitted against each other, whether it is in the workplace, in the media, or in our personal lives. Overcoming these societal and cultural barriers is essential if we are to create a world in which women can truly support each other.

So how can we encourage and promote women supporting each other in changing our planet? One way is by creating spaces and opportunities for women to come together and connect with each other. Whether it is through networking events, mentorship programs, or online communities, creating a sense of community and support is essential.

Another way is by actively promoting and celebrating the successes of women. By shining a spotlight on women who are making a difference, we can inspire and empower others to do the same. This can be done through social media campaigns, awards programs, or simply by sharing stories of women who are making a difference in our communities.

Finally, it is important to recognize that women supporting each other are not a one-way street. It is important for women to not only receive support but to also give back to their communities and support other women in their own journeys. By creating a culture of reciprocity and support, we can create a world in which women can thrive and make a difference.

In conclusion, the magic of women supporting each other in changing our planet is a powerful force for good. By coming together, sharing our stories, skills, and expertise, and supporting each other through thick and thin, women can create a more sustainable, equitable, and just world for all. Let us continue to work together, support each other, and change our planet for the better.

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Marian Croak’s singular intellect, vision, and tenacity have left a lasting impression on the technology sector. Along with her tremendous resume of successes, she stands out among her contemporaries due to the influence she has had on the telecom industry. Her most recent accomplishment is that she is one of the first two Black women to be inducted into the Inventors Hall of Fame. Marian already holds 200 patents, one of which covers the Zoom technique. She currently oversees the Research Center for Responsible AI and Human-Centered Technologies at Google as a vice president of engineering. .(credit)

Her pioneering work in the development of the technology behind Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and video and audio conferencing has transformed the way we communicate with each other, making it more efficient and convenient than ever before. Croak’s patented technologies have vastly improved call quality and reduced background noise, thus, increasing the effectiveness and reliability of communication networks.

Back of the Card

One of the things that make Croak stand out is her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry. As a woman of color in a male-dominated industry, she has encountered countless obstacles, but her setbacks have not stopped her from making a difference. She has been a vocal advocate for creating equitable and inclusive workplaces, tirelessly working to promote the hiring and advancement of women and people of color in technology.

Croak’s remarkable achievements include the development of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), a technology for transmitting voice data over the internet, which has since become ubiquitous in the world of telecommunications. Her pioneering work in video and audio conferencing technology has helped to create more seamless and user-friendly communication experiences. Moreover, Croak has

developed several patented technologies that have improved call quality and reduced background noise in telephone conversations. These innovations have

significantly impacted the telecommunications industry and have helped to create more efficient and effective communication networks.

Furthermore, Croak’s passion for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry has led her to advocate for equitable and inclusive workplaces. She has worked tirelessly to promote the hiring and advancement of women and people of color in technology. Her exceptional talents and contributions have not gone unnoticed, and she has received numerous awards and accolades for her groundbreaking work, including induction into the Women in Technology International Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Engineering. In 2020, she was also named a Fellow of the Computer History Museum.

Croak’s impact on the world of technology is immeasurable. Her remarkable talents and contributions have made her a true legend in telecommunications and beyond. Her legacy will be felt for generations to come, inspiring and motivating countless others who follow in her footsteps. Croak’s story proves that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.

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A digital measuring spoon is a device that can accurately measure small quantities of ingredients, such as spices, flavourings, or medication.

Place your order Now-$ 29.90

Digital Measuring Spoon Benefits:

1. Accurate measurements: Digital measuring spoons provide precise measurements of ingredients, which is especially important for baking and cooking where even a small variation can affect the final outcome.
2. Convenience: Digital measuring spoons are easy to use and can quickly measure ingredients without the need for separate measuring cups or scales.
3. Time-saving: Measuring spoons are faster than measuring cups, and digital ones are even more efficient since they eliminate the need for manual calculations.
4. Multiple units: Digital measuring spoons can measure in different units, such as grams, millilitres, teaspoons, tablespoons, and ounces, making it easier to follow recipes from different countries.
5. Health benefits: Digital measuring spoons are useful for measuring medication doses, especially for people with health conditions that require specific doses.
6. Portability: Digital measuring spoons are small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them perfect for camping, traveling, or cooking on the go.
7. Cost-effective: Digital measuring spoons are affordable and durable, making them a good investment for home cooks, bakers, and health-conscious individuals.

Digital Measuring Spoon Features

• Digital spoon scale with LCD display.

• 500g capacity with 0.1-gram readability

• The balance adjustment function ensures your precise measurement.

• Ideal tool to weigh butter, flour, cream, tea or spices during cooking or baking.

• Detachable scoop for cleaning

• Assist you to make the job much quicker

• Auto power off after 1 min without operations(default)

• Low consumption for long-time use

• Wide application: kitchen, lab, medicine, industry, etc.

• Don’t overload, otherwise, it could damage the scale.

Digital Measuring Spoon Specifications-

• Minimum Precision scale : 0.1g.
• Material: ABS Plastic
• 4 different weighing modes/Units: g=grams, oz=ounces, ct=carats, gn=grains
• Size: 23*5.5*2.5cm
• Power supply: 1 x CR2032 batteries (not included)

Overall, a digital measuring spoon is a versatile tool that can help home cooks, bakers, and health-conscious individuals to measure ingredients accurately, save time, and achieve better results.

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After years of captivating performances, Malaysia’s very own Michelle Yeoh has been awarded the coveted Best Actress Oscar for her role in the film “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Ladies and gentlemen, a new star has risen in Hollywood.

This win not only cements Yeoh’s status as one of the most talented actresses of our time but also marks a significant moment in the representation of Asian actors and actresses on the big screen. From her early days as a dancer to her rise in Hong Kong cinema and eventual foray into Hollywood, Yeoh’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. With her incredible talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, she has become a true icon in the film industry. So, let’s all take a moment to celebrate and congratulate Michelle Yeoh on this well-deserved win, and honour her inspiring journey as a trailblazer for actors and actresses around the world.

Michelle Yeoh is a renowned actress who has become a household name in both the East and West. She has starred in numerous films and TV shows, with her performances capturing the hearts of audiences around the world. However, her journey to success was not an easy one, and her perseverance and hard work have made her a true inspiration to many.

Michelle Yeoh was born in Ipoh, Malaysia in 1962. She grew up in a traditional Chinese family where her father was a lawyer and her mother was a housewife. Her parents instilled in her the importance of education and she excelled in school, later graduating with a degree in dance from the Royal Academy of Dance in London.

After completing her studies, Michelle Yeoh began her career as a dancer, performing with the London-based dance troupe, The Royal Ballet. However, she soon realized that her true passion was acting and decided to pursue a career in the film industry. She made her debut in the Hong Kong film, “The Owl and Dumbo,” in 1984, and her performance caught the attention of filmmakers in the region.

Yeoh quickly became a sought-after actress in Hong Kong, starring in popular films such as “Police Story 3: Supercop” and “Tai Chi Master.” Her martial arts skills and natural acting talent made her a standout in the industry, and she quickly rose to become one of the most popular actresses in Hong Kong cinema.

Despite her success in Hong Kong, Yeoh wanted to break into the Western film industry. She made her Hollywood debut in the 1997 James Bond film, “Tomorrow Never Dies,” playing the role of Wai Lin. Her performance in the film was praised, and she went on to star in other Hollywood films such as “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “Memoirs of a Geisha.”

However, Yeoh faced many challenges as an Asian actress in Hollywood. She often had to fight against stereotypes and discrimination, with many roles offered to her being limited to characters that reinforced Asian stereotypes. Yeoh refused to be typecast and worked hard to break barriers in the industry.

Her hard work paid off when she was cast as Captain Philippa Georgiou in the hit TV series “Star Trek: Discovery.” Yeoh’s performance as the captain of the USS Shenzhou was lauded by critics and fans alike, and she became a fan favourite. Her character was so popular that she was given her own spin-off series, “Star Trek: Section 31,” which is set to debut in 2022.

Michelle Yeoh’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, she never gave up on her dream and worked tirelessly to break barriers in the film industry. Her talent and dedication have made her a true inspiration to many, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses around the world.

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Womenlines takes pleasure  to host the lead cast of the full-length feature film by Dream Catchers  ‘Dominoes’ shining light on women’s mental health issues, in talk show ‘Let’s Erase Domestic Violence.’ Produced entirely in Singapore by Dream Catchers, the film tackles women’s mental health and empowerment with a powerful message. The visionary behind Dream Catchers, Shalima Motial, has poured her heart and soul into this passion project. Shalima’s exceptional acting skills as one of the lead cast members in “Dominoes” have left the audience in awe and admiration. Her ability to portray complex emotions and bring her character to life on screen is truly remarkable and a testament to her talent and dedication to the film. Alongside her, the talented Swetha Avinash Rao, Ishika Sircar, and Nikki have delivered incredible performances, bringing their characters to life on screen.

‘Dominoes’ is a full-length feature film produced entirely in Singapore by Dream Catchers in collaboration with Zee TV. The film focuses on women’s issues and mental health, and it follows the stories of four women who must confront their own struggles while navigating a world that is predominantly made for men. The film features never-before-seen performances from local artists, and it was helmed by a predominantly female production team. Dream Catchers is excited to entertain you all through the full-length feature film “Dominoes” on 19th March at 3 pm at Carnival Cinema. You can book tickets at 91855177 or at www.carnivalcinemas.sg. The film is rated PG and is in English.

The film tells the story of four women: Keya, Tia, Simi, and Isha. Keya is a popular high school student who is surrounded by amazing friends, but something seems to be missing in her life. Tia has a beautiful family and a steady career, but she must learn to stand up for herself. Simi is a sharp, intelligent, and fierce rockstar who is making waves in a male-dominated workplace and industry. She must fight tooth and nail to prove herself when men spread rumours and raise questions about her ability to handle a prestigious project. At the same time, she must use her tech chops to help her friend Tia rescue someone in genuine peril. Isha is beyond happy to emigrate to Singapore with the love of her life to escape the pressures of living with a joint family, but a strange illness prevents her from starting a family. Despite assurances from her doctor, her condition only gets worse, and she must contend with a deeper mystery.

Viewers can expect a piercing look at challenges faced by women at school, in the workplace, and in family life, and a unique perspective on their struggles to overcome these challenges. The film also explores how mental health issues become intertwined in such complex situations.

Quotes from the film’s team include Director Himanshu Motial’s comment that “Dominoes has been an awesome life experience,” and Director Rajith Mohan’s statement that “I am glad that we could pull it off in a decent way.” Actor Konrad Kuc praised the film’s writers, producers, TikTok videos, directors, actors, and crew, saying, “And somehow you get a bunch of people very satisfied with what they’ve done, and an amazing movie for others to enjoy.” High school student and actor Niki, who played Keya, said that she thoroughly enjoyed playing her role and working with the other talented actors.

Also read: On a Journey of Catching Others’ Dreams By Organizing Events to Fulfilling her Dreams to be an Actor & Producer- Shalima Motial

1. Encourage girls and young women to pursue entrepreneurial careers

To promote female entrepreneurship, we need to start by encouraging girls and young women to pursue entrepreneurial careers. Schools and universities can play a significant role in this by offering programs that focus on entrepreneurship and providing female students with the necessary skills and knowledge to start and run a business. Mentoring and networking programs can also help to connect young women with female entrepreneurs and business leaders who can provide guidance and support.

2. Provide access to funding and resources

Access to funding is one of the biggest barriers to female entrepreneurship. Studies have shown that female entrepreneurs receive less funding than their male counterparts, and this can make it challenging for women to start or grow their businesses. Governments and private organizations can help to address this issue by providing funding and resources specifically for female entrepreneurs. This could include grants, loans, or venture capital funding, as well as access to business incubators, accelerators, and other support services.

3. Address unconscious bias and gender stereotypes

Gender stereotypes and unconscious bias can prevent women from pursuing entrepreneurship and limit their access to funding and other resources. To promote female entrepreneurship, we need to address these biases and stereotypes and create a more inclusive environment for women. This could involve training programs for investors, business leaders, and other stakeholders to recognize and address unconscious bias, as well as initiatives to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

4. Provide training and support for female entrepreneurs

Starting and running a business can be challenging, particularly for first-time entrepreneurs. To promote female entrepreneurship, we need to provide training and support specifically for women. This could include business coaching, mentorship programs, and networking events. Women who have already established successful businesses can also play a valuable role by sharing their knowledge and experience with other female entrepreneurs.

5. Create supportive policies and regulations

Governments can also play a significant role in promoting female entrepreneurship by creating supportive policies and regulations. This could include tax incentives for female-owned businesses, regulatory frameworks that promote gender diversity and inclusion, and initiatives to reduce the gender pay gap. Governments can also work with the private sector to promote gender diversity in leadership positions and support female entrepreneurs through public-private partnerships.

In conclusion, promoting female entrepreneurship is essential for economic growth, job creation, and gender equality. To achieve this goal, we need to address the systemic biases and barriers that prevent women from starting and running businesses. This involves providing access to funding and resources, addressing unconscious bias and gender stereotypes, providing training and support for female entrepreneurs, and creating supportive policies and regulations. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for female entrepreneurs and help to close the gender gap in entrepreneurship.