Every year, the world comes together on 8th March to celebrate the achievements of women in various facets of life. International Women’s Day is also a call to action to bring stories of empowered women to the fore. Dawoodi Bohras everywhere welcome the goal of International Women’s Day to create a world where women’s contribution is celebrated and considered an important part of the fabric of society.
The Dawoodi Bohras place significant emphasis on equal access to education for males and females, as well as female empowerment. With these values in mind, the Dawoodi Bohra community of Leicester chose to mark International Women’s Day by inviting a member of the community to give a talk on her work and achievements. Mother of three daughters, Insiya Maimoon, is currently pursuing an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy.
In what kind of world do you want to see your girls growing up?
A world where they can be exactly who they would like and achieve whatever they want without any limitations. I’m lucky that I belong to the Dawoodi Bohra community where my daughters see the women around them achieving their personal and professional goals.
What pushed you to study mental health for your Master’s degree?
It’s something that I’m hugely passionate about. We live in an increasingly stressful world, and this has an impact on our well-being. Just like physical health, mental health needs to be included in the wider conversation. In particular, I’m interested in working with women as we go through so many phases of life that impact us in immense ways.
How do you balance everything?
Support, support, support! Having a supportive family, friends and a community is so important.
What tips or advice would you give to women in a similar situation wanting to pursue their goals?
I would say don’t wait for the right time, just go for it and it will become the right time. I was inspired by seeing so many women around me reaching for their aspirations like career goals, memorising the Quran, or going back to university in unconventional ways and on their own terms. Whatever you want to achieve it’s never too late. You can do it!
Dawoodi Bohra women are empowered from an early age to participate in all educational opportunities and pursue fulfilling a range of professions. However, we are aware that not every girl and woman around the world is so fortunate. On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women and their impactful interventions in various fields.