It is easy to preach equality publicly and be chauvinist in the private space. The slogans that all genders should have an equal space is easier said than done, because our definition of success or even etiquettes are based on the male prerogatives, which has been cultivated over the years. So, when a woman conquers new heights, or writes her success story, the society sees it with ‘surprise’. It is this ‘surprise’, deliberately cultivated over the years, which ultimately resulted in the gender discrimination though history has enough examples since time immemorial about the might of woman, who is now considered the ‘weaker’, which is historically wrong.

From space technology to defence forces, from entrepreneurship to teaching, she has an indomitable presence everywhere today, and she is the pillar that sustains the organic fabric of the society as well as the family at the same time. From the entry-level jobs to the political leadership positions, her presence is visible everywhere, and this is bound to gain strength further. This was possible because they have got the opportunity for better education and also better exposure, thus enabling them to break into the domains so far considered male bastion.  What is even more interesting is that common women are coming to the forefront of the society and they are able to make their presence felt in different fields.

The celebration of Omani Women’s Day, which assumes greater significance in the backdrop of the country moving in a new direction, is also the occasion to see her social role from a different perspective. The age-old practice of seeing her merely as something ornamental in the family is gone. She is the future of the world for sure, and the launch of the new logo by the Oman government on this occasion also reflects that, because the design reflects the Renewed Renaissance and Oman Vision 2040.

Unlike the past, whenever the country is passing through a critical juncture, or faces a crisis, the women are at the forefront in Oman to address it. They are more amiable and humane in many aspects and that is what makes them effective social leaders in handling such scenario. It is time to promote their role in the society, of course without affecting the fabric of the family. 

As we all know, the Sultanate of Oman lays great emphasis on empowering women across all sectors ranging from education and healthcare to economic, scientific and technical fields. A woman who brings about cohesion and harmony in the family can definitely ensure the same in the society as a whole. This is the reason why her presence is more visible nowadays in the social circles and this occasion of the Women’s Day is an occasion to stamp it further.

At the same time, the women are the worst affected when there is a natural calamity. As we have seen in the case of the recent cyclone, there were many women and children who were affected by the nature’s fury. It is in the backdrop that Ahad Foundation, in the name of Honourable Lady, the Spouse of His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik, has decided to launch the “Ahad Al Khair” convoy on this day to support Omani women and their families affected by cyclone Shaheen. The foundation is keen to promote Omani women’s associations throughout the Sultanate through Ahad Al Khair, and it would supply necessary needs to women and families in cyclone hit areas of the country.

But the impact of the nature’s fury would not dampen the woman’s spirit. She is no longer the subjugated one. Today she is a liberated soul with a powerful vision. While she gives and takes love in all its emotional intensity, she never compromises on her will power and quality. 

The occasions like Women’s Day once again stamp her powerful existence and identity for sure. Success is not just about money and power, it is more about the ability and freedom to express oneself.  

Let’s celebrate womanhood with all its colours and might on this great day without being inferior to anyone.

About the author: Reena Abdulrahman is the Chief Operating Officer of Alhind Travel and Tours for GCC and Africa. Reena has over 21 years of experience working with top airlines in the region.