Today, on International Day of the Girl, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and potential of girls everywhere. It’s a day to acknowledge their rights, uplift their voices, and empower them to achieve their dreams.
As we rise together, we reflect on the advice we’d offer to our younger selves or to the next generation of South Asian girls growing up in a world that’s full of possibilities.
This post is a collection of heartfelt wisdom from South Asian women—women who have walked their own unique paths, faced struggles, broken barriers, and now share their lessons with the next generation.
Here’s what they have to say:
1. Embrace Your Power
“Don’t wait for permission to take up space. You have more power than you realize, and the moment you recognize it, the world will open up to you. Step forward boldly.”
— Priya Singh, Entrepreneur & Advocate for Girls’ Education
2. Your Identity is Your Strength
“Your heritage is a source of pride, not something to be hidden. Celebrate your culture, your roots, and the values that have been passed down to you. It’s part of what makes you unique, and that uniqueness is your superpower.”
— Anika Patel, CEO & Social Activist
3. Failure is a Stepping Stone
“Don’t be afraid to fail. Every setback is a lesson in disguise, guiding you toward success. Keep pushing forward because failure doesn’t define you—how you rise from it does.”
— Meera Shah, Tech Leader & Mentor
4. Find Your Voice and Use It
“You have a voice, and it’s powerful. Speak up when something feels wrong, share your dreams, and let the world hear your truth. You are capable of driving change by being authentically you.“
— Nisha Desai, Journalist & Activist
5. Be Courageous in Your Growth
“Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Be courageous enough to take that leap, even if it scares you. Every time you push through discomfort, you grow into the person you were meant to be.”
— Saira Khan, Author & Life Coach
6. You Are Enough, Exactly As You Are
“The world will often tell you that you need to be ‘more’—more successful, more beautiful, more ‘perfect.’ But you, right now, in this very moment, are enough. Your worth is not defined by others’ opinions but by the love you have for yourself.”
— Rani Verma, Mental Health Advocate
7. Support Other Women
“When women support women, incredible things happen. Lift each other up, collaborate, and celebrate one another’s victories. Together, we are stronger and can make an even bigger impact.”
— Leela Kapoor, Founder of Women’s Empowerment Network
8. Dream Big and Don’t Apologize for It
“Your dreams are valid, no matter how big or unconventional they may seem. Don’t apologise for wanting more, for aiming higher, or for believing in something greater for yourself. You are deserving of every dream you have.”
— Sonia Malik, CEO & Business Strategist
9. Be Kind to Yourself
“We are often our harshest critics. Learn to be kind to yourself, give yourself grace, and know that you don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Life is a journey, and you’re allowed to grow at your own pace.”
— Tara Ali, Mindfulness Coach
10. Keep Rising, Always
“No matter what happens, never stop rising. There will be obstacles, challenges, and moments of doubt, but you are capable of overcoming them all. You are destined for greatness, so keep rising.”
— Farah Khan, Founder of Rising Together CIC
As we celebrate this day, let’s remember that every girl has the potential to change the world. Our advice to them—and to the little girl within all of us—is to rise with courage, lead with kindness, and dream without limits.
To all the girls out there: you are powerful, you are worthy, and you are unstoppable.
Happy International Day of the Girl from all of us at Rising Together CIC! 💕
