Being a woman in today’s world certainly isn’t easy. Though we may have it easier than our sisters did decades ago, we are still facing some of the same issues in today’s society. For Americans, the future can seem bleak at times – let’s be honest.
But, before we get all melodramatic, just take a look around. There are females leading the way wherever we look and if the recent US election has done anything, it has kick-started a badass female revolution, with women stepping up and taking a stand for their needs. Even in Shanghai, there are a plentitude of organizations that are empowering women and bringing out their best attributes and talents.
It all goes past politics and titles. Whether you consider yourself a feminist, a womanist or just simply a girl trying to succeed in life, it all comes down to one thing: women supporting other women.
Here we take a look at what female leaders around Shanghai have to say about the future of women. Whether it be a power-packed female workshop, a fundraiser for planned parenthood or helping women in their careers, these girls are making a difference and giving women a purpose and a voice, all the while supporting one another through it all.
1. Steph Zoo, League of Extraordinary Women
“Historically speaking, women at the top of the pyramid, have made monumental strides in all facets of life, both professionally and in civil society. Shanghai and China has in many ways heralded a more equal platform for women. However, when the tide rises, not all the boats rise. Therefore, our next mandate is firstly to use our stories and successes to empower women at the bottom of the pyramid; and secondly to not forsake the men that may have been left behind while implementing practical inclusiveness policies.”
2. Sylvia Choi, Women Leadership Network
“Gender inequalities currently are still prominent globally, with women being paid less than men in most countries. A priority should be made to reduce the gap of labor force, education, healthcare and welfare access between men and women. This will also promote economic growth. That being said, there has been tremendous progress toward women’s empowerment in China. The booming economy has given businesswomen many opportunities to flourish. However, a lot more can still be done, for example, enhancing women participation in leadership positions in different industries.”
3. Michelle Ibarra, Girl Gone International
“I see women stepping up, working together, guiding and pushing each other to be the best versions of themselves. On a global scale, education for women is key. We need to focus on building communities and supporting those non-profits that promote education, travel and equality for women. In Shanghai, I envision an open and supportive platform for women to feel comfortable communicating and exploring their potential together. It’s been quite exciting to watch and be a part of this movement. I know it will continue to grow.”
4. Amanda Argentieri, International Professional Women’s Society
“The future of women, both globally and in Shanghai, depends on many factors, and in particular, the level of support women extend to one another. It has been amazing to witness the development of meaningful networks and platforms that connect women in Shanghai and enable us to support each other, both in the workplace and in our personal lives. The continued fostering of these support networks is key to the advancement of women, but we still need more women who are stepping up to support their gender. I think Shanghai is serving as an example to the world as to how effective these platforms really can be.”
5. Charlene Liu, Shanghai Pride
“In the near future we will see women taking more leadership roles, more start-ups by women and possibly more women in politics. I foresee more female support groups materializing, especially now we see many group chats on WeChat specifically for women regarding various topics ranging from leadership to technology. With role models such as China’s first lady, former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, US first lady Michelle Obama and other leaders such as Teresa May and Angela Markel, more women will be motivated and inspired to stand up for themselves and stand out to take charge of their own lives.”
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