As we celebrate International Women's Day 2024, I've been reflecting on my own journey and how it aligns with this year's theme of "Inspire Inclusion." You see, for the longest time, I felt like I had to conform to a certain image to be taken seriously in my job as an engineer. I felt the need to be more masculine, to suppress my softer side, just to be respected and heard at work.
But then something incredible happened—I rediscovered the joy of crafting. It was like unlocking a part of myself that I had buried beneath layers of societal expectations. And you know what? It made me a better engineer.
Crafting, a traditionally feminine hobby, became my secret weapon in the world of STEM. It taught me patience, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving—all skills that have served me well in my engineering career. It showed me that strength isn't always loud and assertive; sometimes, it's found in the quiet moments of creativity and self-expression.
Through crafting, I found my voice—the voice that I had silenced for so long in an effort to fit in. It reminded me that inclusivity isn't about conforming to a narrow definition of success; it's about embracing all parts of ourselves, even the ones that society tells us don't belong.
So this International Women's Day, I invite you to join me in celebrating the power of inclusivity and self-discovery. Whether it's through challenging stereotypes in STEM or embracing traditionally feminine hobbies like crafting, let's pave the way for a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.
Here's to finding strength in softness and embracing all aspects of ourselves and empowering others to do the same.
Cheers to inclusivity,
Christine
Engineer, Business Owner, Craft Lover
A multifaceted human embracing life without trying to defy or conform to stereotypes.