Anu

 

What does life as a woman or girl look like in your country/city/town/village? Any issues/challenges/milestones?

There is gender inequality. Women are not treated fairly. Men are always believed to have the righter way. Parents are very protective over their daughters, they are very discouraging and close minded. They always expect us to do the right things when they are the ones who showcase bad behaviour. Boys get their freedom and are encouraged to pursue their passions whereas girls are pushed towards having a good education as well as focusing on marriage and childbirth.

The country is very judgmental about women and their exploits. Let's take for example at the age of 15-17, if I do stuff they considered a guy would do, I would immediately be classified as a guy. Take for example, I am a major football fan and I am obsessed, my dad would call me a guy. Majority of the folks are homophobic. There were a lot of riots by religious leaders in the country when the buggery law was legalized.

Men in this country like to dominate, they instill women with fear. Many of them are disrespectful, unfaithful, insecure, manipulating, controlling, as well as verbally abusive. Some men are in love with the concept of love, but they don't truly know the definition of it. Lovers are still separated by religious beliefs or who their parents believe to be "suitable". There is stop a lot of racism. Personally, I have had experiences with friends and members of the community. Racist jokes are very common.

What would you like the world to know about YOU? What life experience, challenge or achievement do you want to share?

I come from a broken home. My parents are divorced. That should never stop someone from pursuing their dreams. This is your life. You live it to the fullest. You will only get this opportunity once. Don't worry about what happened in the past, always focus on the future while living your best present.

What are you most passionate about and what are you doing with that passion?

I am most passionate about writing. I have written books on Wattpad for entertainment and for public awareness. I have also submitted an application to blog. I like to touch on topics. I did that on all of my school essays. I always spoke about domestic violence, drug abuse, etc.

How have the women and girls around you helped you to get to where you are today?

Their courage, strength and bravery inspired me to speak out.

Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today, is to be..."

Strong.