Dear Friends,
As we delve into this issue of HER Journal, it’s impossible to overlook the undeniable power that women wield, not just within their homes, but across the global economy. Women’s voices, contributions, and resilience are transforming landscapes, from boardrooms in bustling cities to the rural villages of South Asia, where their role in care giving and entrepreneurship is reshaping communities.
This edition highlights key stories that reinforce a truth we often forget: empowering women isn’t just about economic gain—it’s about societal transformation. Studies show that women’s full participation in the workforce could boost the global economy by $7 trillion. Yet, countless women are left behind, particularly in the Global South, where barriers like cultural biases, lack of access to education, and financial inequality persist.
In rural South Asia, where care giving responsibilities are deeply intertwined with
economic hardship, women are forced to navigate a dual role as caregivers and
breadwinners. These roles, though vital, often go unrecognized and unsupported. It
is a startling fact that women globally perform 76% of unpaid care giving work, a
contribution valued at trillions, yet rarely counted in economic statistics .
When women are empowered—whether through microloans, vocational training,
or access to education—the impact is generational. We see this in the inspiring stories
of women who, despite having only a ninth-grade education or fewer opportunities,
have built thriving small businesses that lift their families and communities out of
poverty. These are the women leading the charge for change, not only improving their personal circumstances but also contributing to global economic growth. In fact, research has shown that women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families and communities, compared to 30-40% for men .
One area where we see women breaking these barriers is entrepreneurship. In India, for example, only 20% of the 63 million small businesses are owned by women. This statistic reflects both the challenges women face and the incredible potential that remains untapped. Entrepreneurship provides a unique opportunity for women to gain economic independence and shift the power dynamics in their communities. These women are creating meaningful change by establishing businesses that not only support their families but also contribute to local economies.
As we move forward, we must continue to advocate for the removal of barriers that
prevent women from achieving their full potential. Whether it’s legal restrictions,
cultural norms, or lack of access to financial services, these obstacles harm not only women but society at large. Investing in women means investing in a future that
benefits us all.
Thank you for joining us in this issue as we celebrate women’s stories, contributions, and resilience. Together, we can continue to mobilize, equip, and transform women’s lives for the better.
In Striving Together,
Rebecca Stanley
Editor, HERJournal
President of Kairos Global Foundtion