On this day, 8 March 2011, SAWomEng joins the rest of the world in the 100th International Women’s Day celebrations. The event started in 1911 with only four countries recognising the efforts of women in an era ridden with inequality and oppression. Rallies and political upheavals by masses demanding better working conditions and voting rights for women, formed the cradle of women empowerment. These struggles have evolved into a peaceful global celebration of social, economic, and political achievements of women.

The goal of our organisation is to “motivate, empower and celebrate the next generation of Women in Engineering”. There is a need to embrace a culture of celebrating one another, particularly the celebration of women in Engineering. If we fail to support each other as professional women, then society will be slow to appreciate our value. SAWomEng has adopted a culture of celebration and we openly share the achievements of women in our organisation. We are expecting more delightful achievements and we look forward to an overflow in the “Achievements” sections of our website pages.

SAWomEng, among many other organisations that value the role of women in science, engineering and technology, would not exist today if no one had decided to take the first step towards reformation. Today, the minds of many are transitioning into a state of acceptance and a sense of pride in women that contribute to the social and economic upliftment in countries throughout the world. It is our responsibility to create opportunities for one another and encourage each other to become influential women in our field.

More information about international Women’s Day events all over the globe may be found at:

http://www.internationalwomensday.com/media/

May all women across the world remember this day for all that has been achieved in the past and as a challenge for future breakthroughs by women throughout the world.

By Chipo Chimhundu
Media Coordinator