Women's session in Tabqa discusses self-Empowerment, ways to overcome challenges

The Syrian Women's Council in Tabqa canton of North and East Syria held a discussion session on Wednesday entitled "Women Between Challenges and Self-Empowerment." The session took place in the Women's Committee hall at the Democratic Autonomous Administration building in Tabqa, with the attendance of dozens of women and representatives from the Autonomous Administration's institutions and councils of Tabqa canton.

Juhaina Mesto, the spokesperson for the Syrian Women's Council in the Tabqa canton, presented an overview of the session's topics, which included several points, among them the concept of self-empowerment and its importance, the objectives and various aspects of self-empowerment, and the challenges women face in achieving it.

Mesto emphasized that self-empowerment is about believing in one's ability to confront life's challenges and make purposeful decisions that bring about positive change. She noted that self-confidence and knowing strengths and weaknesses are the first steps on the path to empowerment.

She also shared a number of inspiring stories and examples of willpower and determination, in addition to highlighting pioneering Syrian women such as Wedad Shujaa; the first Syrian female pilot, Marianna Marrash; the first Syrian woman writer to publish her works in newspapers, Mary al-Ajami; the founder of the first women's association in Damascus, and Zakia Hanano; the national struggler from Idlib.

The discussions also addressed the most prominent psychological, mental, and social challenges facing women on their path to empowerment, such as low self-esteem, fear of failure, social constraints, and traditional legacies, emphasizing that change begins within oneself.

Juhaina Mesto quoted the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, "The only constant thing in life is continuous change," stressing that change should be an essential part of every person's life, especially for women, who bear the responsibility of raising future generations.

The session also touched upon the concept of self-leadership and self-acceptance as a stage preceding empowerment. Juhaina explained that a woman who is able to understand herself and define her goals can lead her life towards success and independence.

The session concluded by emphasizing the importance of time management, prior planning, and continuous self-improvement to achieve self-empowerment, citing the experience of the internationally renowned architect Zaha Hadid as a model of a woman who faced difficulties and achieved success despite challenges.

J.J

ANHA