social change | Jen and Willa

If you ever have the opportunity to spend time in the countryside of Bangladesh, you will be struck by it’s colour. The fields are bright and the women are fearless.

These JW photographs capture courageous, brilliant and innovative women.

These women are passionate teachers; dedicated to giving children the gift of an education, and access to opportunities beyond their villages. These women forge and facilitate social movements that aim to place protections in place for the most vulnerable in their community. They are enterprising; seizing opportunity to generate income and the introduction of vital sanitation initiatives, which reduce early childhood deaths. These women are passionate about change. Change for the future of their communities, their loved ones and the generation to come. These women are women of enduring faith, that stands in the most horrific and heartbreaking circumstances.

On this day, this significant and symbolic day… equity and equality for all is more important than ever. Around the world, the opportunities for women, and the value placed on the contribution of women remains imbalanced. As individuals, communities and nations we have not mastered the balance or achieved the change required. But we must keep trying.

My heritage is rich with women and men who have fought for and been committed to equality and equity for all. They have pushed against social and cultural norms, facilitated access to education and community connection…. They have pursued careers and opportunities without regard to gender stereotypes or expectations… they have loved and given, tirelessly and endlessly, for the benefit of others.

It is hard not to be stirred and moved on this day, by the past and the strides forward, over months and years. On this day, this significant and symbolic day, its timely to reflect and renew our commitment to contributing to change. Change in whatever way we can, large or small, grand or humble…. to keep on keeping on.

The journey is far from over and in some parts of the world is has only just begun.

With heartfelt wishes for a future for all that is fair and opportunity rich.