Name: Chelsea Gorry
Grade: Year 10
Age: 15 Years
School: Roma State College
Hometown and State: Roma, Queensland
LIFTING US UP – How can women and girls empower each other and their communities in times of uncertainty and change?
“A woman is like a teabag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water” (Eleanor Roosevelt). 2020 has seen unprecedented times, bringing personal, societal, and global challenges, resulting in a negative effect on the collective mental health of women, girls and non-binary people. Whilst this is difficult, it has provided a unique opportunity to support local communities and other people. Seemingly insignificant acts of kindness, positivity and leadership can lift and empower each other in times of need.
Due to recent events, there have been changes economically and socially that have negatively altered the personal lives of many. It is impossible to completely understand the individual impacts, but part of being a leader is having compassion for the community’s collective suffering. This entails understanding that people may struggle, and when possible, stepping up to assist. Embracing these challenges, role-modelling the importance of self-care, and supporting others are key elements in being a positive influence and lifting other women and girls up.
During times of uncertainty, having a positive outlook can be difficult. Negativity and fear escalate, having effect on emotional and mental health. Community, connection and support is required to see the bright side. And where there isn’t one? Make one! “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement” (Helen Keller).
Maintaining a positive mindset is a vital aspect of leadership and as it can determine whether outcomes are positive or negative.
The Covid-19 global pandemic has resulted in lockdown, movement restrictions, economic recession, and most devastatingly, the challenges for human health. Whilst it may appear to be challenging, adhering to Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines is vital to improve human health and ‘stop the spread’ of the virus. New South Wales and Queensland governments demonstrate the strength of women in leadership, making difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions during the pandemic for the wellbeing of their constituents. Thus, part of being a leader is making, and following, difficult decisions for the greater good.
Women in leadership have modelled the use of videoconferencing and social media to connect with their colleagues, customers, community and country regardless of the restrictions. Many busy women and girls are embracing the slowdown, enjoying the little things in life, and spending quality time with family. The imposed restrictions, although due to a devastating cause, has given many the gift of time. This has allowed for self-care to be practiced more frequently, allowing busy women, girls, and non-binary people to lift themselves up, making it more possible to lift each-other up.
Women, girls and non-binary people should consider how the choices they make affect others and the community. Empowering and leading women, girls and the wider community is not about being the smartest or most outgoing in a group – it is about leading by example. Being compassionate, optimistic, and responsible citizens allows for a more cohesive and positive world.
This Power Trip is kindly being sponsored by AgriFutures Australia