Transform childhoods of 500 slum children in India

International Women’s Day

8^th March, 2018

Ambujwadi

 “Extremists have shown what frighten them the most: a girl with a book.” – Malala Yousafzai, youngest Noble Peace Prize winner

 To commemorate the International Women’s Day on 8^th March celebrating the cultural, political and social achievements of women the world over, a program was organized by the children and youth groups for the women in Ambujwadi. The International Women’s day theme for 2018 was Press for Progress. The International community gave a call to press for gender parity and push forward for equality.

Bal Adhikar Sangarsh Sangatan (BASS) and Nakshatra girls group of Malwani Yuva Parishad jointly organized a half day program for the women of the community. Women’s day cards were made and distributed to all the anganwadi teachers, parents and others. The hall was decorated with pictures of women Chawla, Medha Patkar, Indira Gandhi, Sania Mirza, Saina Nehwal, Rani Lakskmi Bai, Savitri Bai Phule and others. A description of each of them was written for all to read. The program commenced with a welcome address by Sumati from YUVA, who wished everyone a very happy Women’s day.

Followed by this was a short health session by the doctors from KEM health post, who spoke about women’s health and the importance for them to care for themselves first, in order to have a healthy family. They encouraged the women to think and aspire big, and told them that nothing can stop them from doing great things. A children’s group performed a welcome dance in the form of a short enactment with a message of gender equality.

Girls and women were asked to share experiences from their lives when they had obstacles, yet managed to overcome them and achieve big things. A session of song and dance concluded the event and the message of women empowerment went home.