Name: Alethea Hung
Grade: Year 11
Age: 16 Years
School: West Wyalong High School
Hometown and State: West Wyalong, New South Wales
LIFTING US UP – How can women and girls empower each other and their communities in times of uncertainty and change?
People might forget about the black plague or the smallpox, but they’ll never forget about Covid-19. Just one simple word, yet it is the cause of many people’s fears, sadness, and anger. It has stopped many from visiting their loved ones, opened a new world of online education and it has made us cherish the life we have.
As a Year 11 student living through this time of uncertainty it has made me realise the importance of empowering each other. I’ve seen Year 12 students stressing out about their HSC more than ever. Knowing that it could be me in 12 months has made me understand that we aren’t fighting this battle alone. It’s not you against everyone in your year but it’s you and your year against everyone else. Covid-19 has changed the way women treat each other; for example, girls at my school have become more supportive of each other such as checking up on each other, asking about how they are dealing with their schoolwork and lending a hand when possible.
Everyone is tired from the challenge of Covid-19, but healthcare workers have worked tirelessly to ensure that families are safe and patients are cared for. As someone who has a female family member working in the healthcare industry, it has made me cherish her more than ever, knowing that every day she is going to work putting her life at risk, to care for others. This has really been a reality check that we women need to support and unite together through this time of uncertainty.
Women throughout history have been judged and criticised, yet women still managed to stay strong and support each other. Now a new challenge has been placed upon us. Stopping this pandemic may be too far out of reach, but if thereäó»s one thing Covid-19 has taught me, it is that yes, we can help each other. Simple gestures are important such as calling, texting or just chatting to your female friends, peers, or co-workers to check if they are alright. The simplest phrase such as “Thank you, I really appreciate it” or “Everything will be fine, we can do this. I’ve got your back,” could be enough to help empower each other.
Sometimes the most beautiful friendships and relationships are formed through simple conversations. Through a small and yet meaningful gesture we can bring women closer to each other and allow us to empower each other.