TO INSPIRE AND BE INSPIRED

In the latest edition of ‘The Things We Don't Say’, Farrah Saville looks at the women she draws inspiration from as a mother this International Women's Day.

OnMarch 8, women worldwide will observe International Women's Day. I say observe because often, it feels like there isn't a lot to celebrate. We look at some of the atrocities against women worldwide, and it feels like what are we celebrating? When I look at my daughter, I ask myself “What world am I raising this young lady in?”

There are so many things that women need to consider- safety, how they dress, managing it all by balancing a career and family, growing their careers versus giving up their careers, getting married as the biological clock ticks away - the list is endless.

The negativities can be endless, but this month, I choose to celebrate raising a girl and International Woman's Day because, from my personal experiences as a woman, I have found that being a woman is AWESOME and should indeed be celebrated.

Here's my list of ten women I am inspired by to help me navigate being a mom, and help my daughter to see reason in a world that can sometimes be difficult.

1. Oprah Winfrey - Undeniably one of the most inspiring success stories in the world. Her work to build an empire and empower women inspires anyone looking to build a life they love. She has inspired me in many ways. My favourite Oprah quote is, "Be thankful for what you have; you'll have more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never have enough."

2. Greta Thunberg - Through her activism and the #FridaysForFuture movement, Greta has inspired a new generation to take a stand against the global climate crisis.

3. Beyoncé - A talented musician, performer, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Beyoncé has been using her voice and artistry to stand up for gender and racial justice.

4. Malala Yousafzai - At the young age of 17, Malala was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. For my daughter, I can only hope to raise her with the same value for education.

5. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez - AOC, as she is widely known, has a vital energy. She is so brave despite being so young and has qualities I would love my daughter to have.

6. Amal Alamuddin - One of the world's most high-profile and celebrated attorneys, Amal Alamuddin has become an international symbol of empowerment and resilience.

7. My mother - She has broken the mould and a few rules to raise her children to be independent and kind.

8. Fatima Meer - Fatima Meer has made tremendous strides in advancing South African race relations. Meer's ability to understand intersectionality before it even became a term inspires me to teach my daughter to look beyond her struggles myopically.

9. Serena Williams – The world-renowned professional tennis player has set an example for many generations, inspiring young women to find the strength and ambition to accomplish their dreams. I hope Williams' strength inspires my daughter.

10. Melanie Perkins – This CEO is the woman behind the design website Canva; she founded the company on her own with zero Silicon Valley connections and is currently worth USD 3.6 billion.

Where are you from and what's the thing you love most about your hometown?

I am from Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. The thing I love most about Kyiv is its beautiful nature which I have never come across anywhere else in the world. We have colourful parks, monasteries, churches, and beautiful architecture which I miss so much. Then there are special Ukrainian dishes that I miss… especially those cooked by my mum.

What was the name of your first pet? What made it unique?

I’ve only had one pet in my life - a cat named Masha with very unique markings in black, brown, grey and white. My family adopted her when I was just a child, and she was quite little too; so we grew up together and she was with us for almost 17 years. She was completely different and had a crazy personality.

What's the best advice you can give our readers?

Something I know for sure is that nothing is impossible in this life. So, I would say dream big and fill your life with beautiful moments.

What is an achievement you are most proud of?

I spent 10 years in hospitality and progressed without any help, so I would say it is where I am now in my career. I also have a master’s degree in International Economics and Business Development and will soon be finishing my MBA too.

Do you have any hidden talents?