Embrace Market’s panel discussion highlights women empowerment
KUCHING: A panel discussion conducted by the Padawan Chapter of Junior Chamber International (JCI) recently highlighted women's empowerment, in celebration of this year's International Women's Day.
Held in connection with the chapter's inaugural ‘Embrace Market' at Green Heights Mall here, the session had Sereni Linggi from Voodoocycle, Azizah Sayan from Pufflab, Rachel Ang from The Billy Goat Coffee, and Nagaia Tato from Rhakta Datu as members of the panel, with Elsa Ng from JCI Padawan acting as moderator.
According to the organising chairwoman Martiana Chia, the discussion meant to serve as inspiration to the community, through the stories shared by the four diverse women, each with her own background.
“The session sheds light on how they navigate the balancing act of motherhood, professional responsibilities, and personal life, delivering a powerful message to all women that ‘life does not stop there'.
“Overall, the whole event itself signifies the call to create a safe and inclusive space for women, empowering the environment for women of all ages, as well as families and youths, amidst the hectic realm,” said Chia in a statement.
In their presentations, Ang and Sereni reinforced the belief of ‘the sky being the limit' and advocated all the mothers out there to ‘embrace motherhood, while pursuing your dreams'.
Nagaia, in her slot, shared with the audience the challenges faced by many women, but emphasised the importance of determination in pursuing one's passion without ever relenting to the challenges.
Earlier, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap officiated at the opening ceremony of the ‘Embrace Market', where he already set the tone for the event in his speech.
“The purpose, ideals and objectives of celebrating
International Women's Day are all projected for a fair and harmonious society and government.
“This means that when women celebrate this day, they send a message that policies and laws made by any government must be fairly applied, and should not be based on racial and religious considerations.
“In essence, International Women's Day is a day when women are recognised for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political,” said Yap.
The ‘Embrace Market' played host to more than 20 local vendors, offering a myriad of products and services to the visitors.
Chia remarked: “This market is for the community, intended to support and bring to light their businesses. It is a vibrant community where connections are forged, inclusivity is celebrated, and countless opportunities unfold.”