As a father, one of my greatest hopes for my daughter is that she grows into a woman who pursues her passions and inspires and uplifts others. International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration—it is a reflection on the journey she has embarked on and the ripple effect of empowerment she is creating in the world.

The power of a role model

When she was just eight years old, she unknowingly taught me a profound lesson about influence. At that time, I had recently transitioned from the military and was stepping into my new career as a speaker. The shift was a significant one—moving from a structured, high-discipline environment to a field where my voice and message had to create an impact.

One evening, I was rehearsing a speech at home, deeply engrossed in perfecting my delivery. My daughter sat beside me, watching with quiet curiosity. She observed how I articulated my words, how I paced my speech, and how I used my presence to command attention. After hours of practicing, she looked up at me and said, “Appa, I’m so inspired by how well you speak. I want to be an awesome speaker just like you.”

Those words struck me in a way I hadn’t expected. It wasn’t just admiration—it was a realisation that she saw in me something she aspired to become. She wasn’t just watching me rehearse a speech; she was absorbing confidence, articulation, and purpose. She even memorised parts of my speech and flawlessly recited them back to me. That moment made me realise that our children don’t just listen to what we say—they internalise how we live.

From that day forward, I understood that my role extended beyond being a father. I had the responsibility of shaping a woman who would inspire others, who would use her gifts to empower those around her, and who would one day stand on her own stage—both figuratively and literally.

Also Read: Invest in women, accelerate progress: Why gender equality matters now more than ever

Rising to her potential

Fast forward to today—at 20 years old, she has transformed that childhood inspiration into reality. She has not only honed her speaking skills but has excelled, winning the National Speech Championship and securing first runner-up in the YMCA ‘PESA’ competition. But as much as I take pride in her achievements, what moves me even more is the intention behind her success.

She doesn’t just speak to win competitions. She speaks to make an impact. She has realised that her voice carries weight, and she wants to use it to empower, challenge perspectives, and drive change. Whether she is delivering a speech to a room full of people, mentoring young girls, or simply carrying herself with confidence, she is shaping the aspirations of those who cross her path.

Her impact on other women

A woman’s success is never just her own—it is a beacon for others. This International Women’s Day, my hope for my daughter is that she continues to:

I want her to be a beacon of confidence, showing other women that their voices matter. I want her to inspire them to stand tall, speak boldly, and embrace their stories with conviction. Too often, women hesitate to use their voices because of fear—fear of judgment, fear of inadequacy, fear of being unheard. But a single empowered woman has the power to break that cycle for many others.

I hope she continues to lift others as she climbs. Success means little if it is not shared. I want her to mentor, guide, and empower those who are searching for their own paths. The beauty of leadership is not in standing at the top alone but in bringing others along and watching them rise beside you.

Also Read: How this introvert started a community of women investors in SEA

I hope she uses her voice for change, speaking up for the issues that matter. In a world where inequalities still exist, where voices are often silenced, I want her to be unafraid to take a stand. Whether advocating for fairness in opportunities, addressing challenges that women face, or simply encouraging another woman to pursue her dreams, she holds the power to create a meaningful impact.

Most importantly, I want her to lead by example, not just in words but in action. I hope she inspires women to break barriers, redefine their own limits, and pursue their true potential, no matter the challenges they face.

The future she will shape

The world still struggles with gender biases, with preconceived notions about what women can or should do. But history has shown us that strong female role models change the narrative. I hope my daughter will be one of those women—someone who challenges the status quo, who refuses to settle for less, and who paves the way for others to rise.

Already, she is proving that when women are given opportunities, they don’t just succeed—they transform industries, influence communities, and shape the future. As her father, I will continue to support her journey, knowing that every step she takes is not just for herself but for the countless women who will walk in her footsteps.

This International Women’s Day, I don’t just celebrate my daughter—I celebrate the force of change she is becoming. I celebrate the lives she will touch, the voices she will inspire, and the countless women who, like her, are rising, uplifting others, and shaping a better world for generations to come.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Join us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to stay connected.

Image credit: Canva Pro

The post Father, mentor, ally: Walking the talk for women’s empowerment appeared first on e27.