Martha Karua Defends Women’s Empowerment: “We Seek Recognition Without Threatening the Boy Child”

Martha Karua Defends Women’s Empowerment: “We Seek Recognition Without Threatening the Boy Child”


  • At the third installment of the What Women Want Summit, Martha Karua voiced her support for gender equity.

  • She refuted the idea that women are fundamentally their own worst foes and encouraged unity among women along with mutual responsibility.

  • Karua likewise announced her candidacy for president, motivating those present with her ideas for advancing gender equality.

  • In an interview with LIFEHACK.co.ke, event organizer Pinky Ghelani emphasized the importance of more profound discussions in educational institutions and family settings to tackle problems such as femicide.

Martha Karua, the leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), passionately argued for the necessity of women’s empowerment initiatives when she spoke at the What Women Want Summit, which took place at the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi.

This year’s summit, initiated by Pinky Ghelani, celebrated its third iteration, assembling prominent women from different industries over the course of three days dedicated to empowerment, networking, and discussions.

The much-anticipated event commenced on Friday, March 21, featuring a vibrant gala dinner led by Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo.

During the span of three days, attendees took part in various discussions, workshops, and networking events focused on enhancing women’s rights, leadership roles, and social influence.

Martha Karua’s compelling statement about empowering women

When the summit ended on Sunday, March 23, Karua stepped forward to highlight that women’s empowerment should be recognized as an essential right rather than perceived as a danger to boys or men.

She asserted that recognizing our humanity should not be an afterthought but a fundamental right. We did not arrive coincidentally; we merit equal standing with our male counterparts. Keep in mind, we are the mothers of these men—yes, even those boastful Members of Parliament. Regardless of gender, we are the mothers of exceptional individuals. Thus, our significance confirms that we hold considerable worth ourselves.


Karua encouraged society to move past the idea that enhancing women’s rights comes at the expense of men, highlighting that equality actually enriches all individuals.

Is the notion that women are their own worst enemies a valid one?

Karua likewise addressed the contentious belief that females frequently undermine themselves more than others do.

She recognized that, similar to men, some women might also discourage or undercut others.

Nevertheless, she contended that this should not detract from the many women who encourage and help each other.

Some women undermine and harm their female counterparts. When a woman is observed belittling another woman, she should be confronted. Despite potential denials, this confrontation can prompt action. Conversely, women who support and uplift other women deserve recognition to inspire others.

I’ve learned this through my experience during my initial political campaign. The harsh comments directed at me came predominantly from men, whereas women often took on surrogate roles. It’s said that ‘women are each other’s toughest competitors,’ which reflects this narrative. We should recognize both male and female individuals who act poorly; conversely, we ought to acknowledge those who excel positively,” she stated firmly.

How women drive transformation

Karua emphasized that since women represent the biggest group within the nation, they possess the potential to catalyze substantial social transformation.

“All these elected leaders are female representatives since 51% of the voters are women. Even William Ruto represents women,” she stated.

She motivated women to come together, provide mutual backing, and assume leadership positions to champion policies that emphasize gender equality.

With a daring announcement that left participants astounded, Karua revealed her intention to run for president.

The influence of Pinky Ghelani at the What Women Want Summit

Speaking to

LIFEHACK.co.ke

The founder of the summit, Pinky Ghelani, disclosed that the gathering had drawn more than 3,000 participants, marking the largest attendance since the event began.

She conveyed her enthusiasm regarding the increasing influence of the summit and how it helps mold discussions around women’s empowerment.

Ghelani likewise tackled the critical matter of femicide in Kenya, emphasizing the necessity for a more preemptive strategy to combat gender-based violence.

“We have barely scratched the surface. Femicide isn’t a recent issue; it’s been around for a long time. To combat this, we must initiate these discussions both in educational institutions and within families. We need to speak with our boys and emphasize that young girls aren’t punching bags, regardless of their feelings of frustration or anger,” she implored.


Leadway Launches Product Empowering Women – International Edition (English)

The financial services company Leadway has launched a dedicated initiative called Hersurred aimed at empowering women.

During the unveiling ceremony in Lagos on Friday, it was highlighted that this community is dynamic and aimed at empowering women to excel in their businesses, personal lives, and all aspects of existence.

At an event held for the Leadway Group, Kunbi Adeoti, who serves as the Chief People Experience Officer, commented that society must take further steps to support and empower women.

She stated, “By establishing this community today, which transcends the usual operations of Leadway within society, our aim is to support women who wish to achieve financial independence, establish businesses, and advance their careers. As we move forward, Leadway will continue developing products designed to facilitate these goals. We are committed to introducing an increasing number of offerings tailored explicitly for women to aid them throughout their journeys.”

The Secretary of the Lagos State Government, ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, who was represented by Anthonia Oredipe, urged the private sector to support governmental efforts aimed at empowering women.

Lagos supports her, yet we must acknowledge that governmental efforts alone are insufficient. Genuine transformation occurs when the private sector, communities, and individuals come together to foster environments where women not only participate but also flourish. That’s why I commend Leadway for founding Hersurred.

This goes beyond merely coming together; it’s a movement that assures every woman, irrespective of her origins, that she possesses the necessary backing to thrive.

During a panel discussion at the event, Tosin Olaseinde, who founded MoneyAfrica and Ladder, emphasized the importance of women moving towards making investment choices rather than just saving money.

Olaseinde mentioned that women excel at saving money, yet tend to avoid taking risks. He stated, “While saving is excellent, building significant wealth requires investing with some level of risk. Transitioning from being cautious savers to bold investors demands considerable effort, but once they do, they become exceptional investors. The primary danger lies in potentially assuming excessive risks which could lead to substantial losses. Nonetheless, since women are adept at managing risks, all that’s needed is for them to make this shift.”

The managing director of Gas Ventures, Neconde Energy Limited, Engineer Chichi Emenike, aligned with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day celebration, ‘Accelerate Action’, and challenged women to rise to the occasion wherever they find themselves.

“Regardless of the sector you’re in, remember that business is all about business; it shouldn’t turn into a discussion about gender. Meeting your key performance objectives is crucial. Continuous improvement is essential,” she stated.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).

Breaking Down Barriers: Empowering Women in the Workplace

Breaking Down Barriers: Empowering Women in the Workplace

Rachael Flanagan wants to smash one of the oldest office stereotypes.

“The era when people were bent over mops is long gone,” stated the founder of Mrs Buckét, the cleaning firm she launched following her failure in the business A-Level examination.

His team consists mostly of females, and he aims to assist in eliminating the obstacles faced by women in other work environments.

The business advocacy organization CBI Cymru discovered that discrimination and unconscious biases hindered women’s progress into leadership positions. They also noted that increased accessibility to affordable childcare could significantly improve women’s career opportunities.

The CBI stated that enabling more women to reach their full potential and take up leadership positions could significantly influence the Welsh economy.

For Ms Flanagan, from Swansea, it means empowering and supporting women who might suffer from “imposter syndrome” and who lack the confidence to put themselves forward for senior roles.

I’ve had managers who have collaborated with me, and we’ve had multiple side conversations where they would tell me ‘you can truly accomplish this.’

She mentioned that the men working in the office should also be included in shifting their mindset.

She stated, ‘It shouldn’t be the responsibility of women to overcome all these various obstacles.’

The men in the room ought to recognize that they are limiting their own chances, and that there’s an aspect of workplace culture that makes it tough for women.

By the age of 37, Ms. Flanagan has established a company that employs over 400 individuals in South Wales. She utilizes cutting-edge technology for cleaning offices, schools, and specialized locations.

This isn’t your typical part-time, low-paid janitorial job where women in uniforms usually wipe dust from desks.

Ms. Flanagan mentioned that several of her most insightful advisors were males; however, she frequently found herself as the sole female among numerous male CEOs and business entrepreneurs in various meetings.

When enhancing opportunities for women, the cultural shift begins in her own workplace through flexible work arrangements and confidence in her team members who can finish their tasks and also manage the school runs.

“Many employers actually offer flexible work schedules,” Ms Flanagan stated.

Her suggestion is: “Join those companies where you can thrive.”

Having young kids doesn’t prevent you from advancing in your professional life too.

The research conducted by CBI Cymru along with the University of South Wales brought attention to the challenges encountered by women aspiring to take up leadership roles.

We can’t ignore the advancements that have occurred,” stated Asha Musoni, the CBI’s chief people officer. “However, structural and institutional barriers as well as cultural obstacles continue to persist.

Specific obstacles include flexibility in work arrangements, availability of suitable child care, workplace gender biases, limited mentoring opportunities, and inadequate support for working fathers.

Some of the data laid bare the disparity between the experiences of men and women in the workplace.

Only 11% of men, compared with 48% of women, believed they were passed over for opportunities due to their gender

“When considering instances where they reach these higher positions, 44% of women believe that they are assigned unfair responsibilities,” Ms Musoni stated.

“Even when we provide people with opportunities, failing to allow them the necessary space and chance to thrive highlights an issue we need to address and consider ways to solve,” she said additionally.

Rachael Flanagan stated that one of the key motivators for women to aim for leadership positions is observing the achievements of their peers.

“If visibility leads to possibility,” she remarked.

  • ‘I didn’t pass my A-levels but I’m now the owner of a £10 million business’
  • ‘I believe that the conventional job interview has become obsolete.’
  • Labour claims remote work rights increase productivity.
15 Stunning Back Tattoos for Women: Captivating Designs & Their Meanings – International Edition (English)

15 Stunning Back Tattoos for Women: Captivating Designs & Their Meanings – International Edition (English)


Tattoos on the back have consistently been a favored and evocative style of body art among women, providing an exceptional surface for stunning designs and individual narratives. From symbols of fortitude to tributes honoring nature, or even those that accentuate female allure, the choices are vast and profoundly significant.

Tattoos stand out as one of the finest artistic expressions embraced by numerous civilizations throughout history. In modern times, these designs continue to hold great importance for many individuals; however, others view them merely as enhancements to physical attractiveness. Available in myriad dimensions, tattoos can adorn virtually any part of the anatomy including the upper back.

Hottest Back Tattoos for Women

There are numerous back tattoo options for ladies, which makes selecting the perfect one quite challenging. But do not fret; choices have already been made for you. Below are some stunning back tattoos for women that you might consider:
1. Intricate floral designs spreading across the upper back.
2. A minimalist line art piece featuring an ethereal angel wing motif.
3. An elegant full-back tribal pattern with vibrant colors.
4. Delicate watercolor butterflies dancing down the shoulder blades.
5. A captivating black-and-grey phoenix rising above the waistline.
These suggestions should help simplify your decision-making process!

1. Back piece with flowers on the upper region

The most attractive and conventional choices for female back tattoos are flowers. These designs represent grace and sophistication.

Flower tattoos come in numerous designs, with the perfect colors and floral compositions entirely up to you. You might opt for one bloom adorning your upper back or go for an arrangement spanning across your entire back.

2. Phoenix back tattoo

A phoenix is a popular tattoo choice that holds deep symbolic importance in myths. This legendary being represents strength, renewal, and change. To highlight these distinctive traits, you could get this mythical bird inked onto your back. Incorporating aspects such as flames into the design of the phoenix can result in an impressive large-scale tattoo that covers your entire back area.

3. Mention the date and add a quotation tattoo

You can get a significant date or quote inked on your back so that it remains perpetually with you. This design could be placed either vertically or horizontally on your upper back or right at the center of it.

If you’re looking for petite and adorable lower back tattoos, quotes are an excellent choice. Nevertheless, with sufficient ingenuity, your tattoo artist can also transform these into bigger designs.

4. Fullback tattoo designs inspired by Asian mythologies

Japanese and Chinese mythology serve as fantastic inspirations for tattoos. Numerous elements from these mythologies, like demons, Oni, and chrysanthemums, make great tattoo subjects. With countless design options and hues available, finding your ideal choice should be quite easy.

Moreover, Chinese notions of mythical beings like dragons make excellent back tattoo choices for women because these designs tend to be more graceful. These images are often very vibrant and expansive, ideal for covering larger areas of the back.

5. Cosmic and celestial Tattoos of Outer Space and Solar System

The space has a lot that can be transformed into amazing tattoos. You can draw anything from constellations, the moon and the sun, stars, black holes, astronauts, etc.

You might choose an image of the whole solar system to highlight the splendor of celestial bodies like stars and planets. Tattoos featuring space and the solar system reflect a person’s thirst for knowledge and their intellectual nature. Furthermore, with numerous designs available, you’re bound to find one that makes you uniquely standout.

6. The Tree of Life rear view tattoo

The Tree of Life serves as a motif found across almost every significant ancient mythology such as those from Celtic, African, Slavic, Christian, Native American, and Norse cultures. Many individuals appreciate getting this design as a tattoo due to the creative liberties it provides.

This is a small tattoo suitable for the upper back or shoulders, though you could opt for a larger size with an excellent design and skilled artist. It symbolizes a link to forebears, spirituality, and the beyond, making it one of the adorable options for female backs.

7. Wings back tattoo

Artistic liberty abounds when it comes to wing-back tattoos, making them among the top choices for women seeking elegant designs. Whether you opt for an angel with wings, standalone angel wings, or intricate bird feathers, these creations can enhance your gracefulness significantly.

Feathers symbolize various concepts such as liberation of the body, mind, and soul. These designs often appeal to independent spirits or individuals who have triumphed over addictions and personal challenges.

8. Butterfly back tattoo

If you’re interested in petite adorable lower back tattoos, butterflies might be an excellent choice for you. These motifs have been popular choices for women’s back tattoos for quite some time. There are various hues, patterns, and dimensions available, allowing each design to uniquely express one’s personality.

For instance, you might find tattoo designs featuring butterflies that resemble moths or traditional butterflies with their wings spread wide. These insects symbolize renewal, liberation, personal growth, and metamorphosis. Evolving from a caterpillar into an exquisite butterfly, these creatures narrate a captivating tale of fresh starts, potentially mirroring your own journey.

9. Elephant back tattoo

When considering tattoos, elephants may not immediately spring to mind, yet they make an excellent selection. An elephant tattoo is particularly well-suited for those looking to fill up much of their upper back space. These designs represent qualities such as intelligence, bravery, fortitude, and familial bonds. Elephants thrive within close-knit groups where mutual support, tenderness, kindness, and understanding prevail.

10. Wolf back tattoo

A wolf makes for an exceptional back tattoo due to its deep symbolism and spiritual importance. Opting for this design on your upper back allows the artist ample room to include intricate elements that enhance its visual appeal. Wolves embody various qualities such as nature, family bonds, fortitude, intelligence, cohesion, and might.

11. Owl back tattoo

The owl stands as the top predator active at night, hunting other birds of prey and terrestrial creatures. Similar to lions or wolves, owls rule their territory, which makes them a popular choice for back tattoos.

Across numerous mythologies and popular cultural depictions, owls embody attributes such as wisdom, nighttime, rainfall, patience, authority, intellect, and shrewdness. These creatures hold profound spiritual importance as well. Furthermore, their exceptional vision enables them to discern intricate details and strategize effectively.

12. Snake back tattoo

Tattoos featuring serpents stand out as some of the most striking forms of body art, irrespective of where they’re placed. Nevertheless, snakes remain a contentious option due to their differing connotations.

In certain cultures and religious beliefs, snakes are viewed as malevolent creatures representing deceit, malice, and shrewdness. Conversely, in different traditions, they are regarded as symbols of sagacity, fortitude, influence, and steadfastness.

Overall, this remains an excellent and aesthetically pleasing choice for a tattoo. You have the flexibility to alter the serpent’s hue, dimensions, and expression to create a distinct atmosphere. Alternatively, you could integrate it into additional artwork such as floral designs or the Tree of Life motif.

13. Forest back tattoo

A forest design ranks as one of the significant lower back tattoos for women. If you’re searching for an original tattoo option for your back, consider this concept. Nature’s allure has consistently captivated individuals, and illustrating forests serves as an excellent method to express this fascination.

Bigger forest tattoos provide an opportunity for intricate designs like trees, blossoms, and starry nights, enabling these elements to be depicted with remarkable precision. Nonetheless, ensure you have it done by a skilled artist capable of bringing out the finest aspects of this artwork.

14. Mandala design tattoo

Tattoos featuring mandala designs are quite popular. These patterns represent wholeness and balance, suggesting inner tranquility and self-acceptance. Incorporating an intricate mandala into your back tattoo can evoke a feeling of serenity, as if all is right in the world. Such a design stands out as both profoundly significant and elegantly feminine for those considering lower back ink; it’s visually appealing and comforting to behold.

15. Watercolour back tattoo

When selecting adorable back tattoos for women, watercolors stand out as particularly intricate and stunning choices. These designs resemble artwork adorning your back, seamlessly merging various hues. Watercolor tattoos artfully merge colors to produce a breathtaking piece on your back. They epitomize elegance and grace while highlighting your individuality.

Final word

As styles develop and individual preferences shift, back tattoos for women remain a striking medium for self-expression and artistic display. Select a motif that deeply resonates with your inherent fortitude, significant recollections, or desired principles. Regardless of what you opt for, a back tattoo serves as an elegant means to reveal your distinct persona.

LIFEHACK.co.ke has published an article featuring some of the most adorable wrist angel wing tattoo designs along with their symbolism. Angelic beings are commonly linked to notions of purity and innocence and are thought to safeguard humanity.

That’s why depictions of these celestial entities or their components, particularly wings, hold significant importance and appeal as tattoo designs. There are numerous creative wrist tattoos featuring angel wings, each carrying its own special significance. To find inspiring concepts, make sure to read through this piece.

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