MOTHER’s Day is not just a day to commemorate our love towards our mothers but also encourages women’s empowerment. It is a day to highlight and celebrate the achievements of mothers who are making a difference in their communities.
Sharing further, the Kuching Women Empowerment and Sustainability Network Association (WESNA) President Dr Carolina Sandra Giang said that Mother’s Day is also a chance to reflect on the challenges that many mothers face.
“By acknowledging the challenges, we can advocate for policies and programmes that support their wellbeing and empowerment. This might involve raising awareness about issues such as maternal health, childcare, equal opportunity, and work-life balance.”
She added that ultimately, celebrating Mother’s Day in the context of women’s empowerment is about recognising and appreciating the diverse roles that mothers play and working toward a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
Having established WESNA alongside other powerful women from various industries, the association stemmed from a deeply rooted belief in the transformative power of women’s empowerment and the urgent need for sustainable development practices. Among the factors that influenced the formation are:
- Recognising the Importance of Women’s Empowerment
- Intersectionality
- Creating supportive networks
- Advocacy and action
- Building bridges
- Fostering leadership opportunities
- Creating a platform collaboration
- Empowering marginalised groups
- Inspiring future generations
Therefore, Dr Carolina encouraged women to join the non-governmental organisation (NGO) or similar organisations, as the journey of a mother isn’t limited to nurturing their families, but also, “it’s about nurturing communities and shaping the future for all. Your unique experiences, skills, and perspectives are invaluable assets that can drive positive change in the world.”
Meanwhile, WESNA Deputy President Shella Georgina Beatrice said that the NGO was established with the following goals in mind: to empower women’s skills and outreach, provide strong support teams for women, encourage continuous learning among women of all ages, and strengthen family bonds among women.
“Women can play various roles in shaping a more sustainable future, such as contributing ideas in active discussions, taking a lead in a team with a positive team spirit, implementing an effective mentor-mentee model and others,” said the mother of two.
Under the visions and missions of WESNA, the NGO believes that women will be able to move forward in the right direction, even though obstacles may arise along the journey to achieve success.
A day of recognising potential
Meanwhile, WESNA Secretary Yalina Fiona Keith further emphasised that Mother’s Day is more than just a day of appreciation.
“It’s about honouring the resilience and strength of mothers everywhere. It also advocates for a world where every woman has the support and resources she needs to thrive.”
As a mother of one, Yalina hopes to uplift and amplify the voices of mothers who may not have the same privileges and opportunities. As a certified trainer and entrepreneur, Yalina wants to create a legacy of empowerment for her daughter and future generations.
“I want them to grow up in a world that values and respects the unique contributions of mothers from all walks of life. This Mother’s Day, as I bask in the love and laughter of my own little one, I’m reminded of the power we hold as mothers to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
Through her diverse professional journey, the beauty queen also learned that true beauty lies in the connections that we foster, the lives that we touch, and the legacy of kindness we leave behind.
“And as I extend my heartfelt wishes to mothers everywhere, I’m reminded that our collective strength lies in the love and support we offer one another, transcending boundaries and nurturing a brighter, more compassionate world for generations to come.”
With that said, the ladies behind the NGO WESNA wish every mother a Happy Mother’s Day.
How has WESNA helped women in the local community?
- Personal growth and empowerment
- Providing support networks
- Impact on others
- Community building
- Entrepreneurial and leadership development
- Collaboration and partnerships
- Education and awareness
- Economic empowerment
- Environmental initiatives
- Celebrating women’s achievements
- Youth leadership
