This is a message to all women and all men that have a woman in their lives: Everyday should be International Women’s Day!

On this day, my thoughts and heart are not only on those strong and powerful women who have inspired me and encouraged me to become the woman I am today, but mainly on all those women that somehow still suffer from any sort of discrimination.

This is not just a day to recognise and appreciate the value of women in this world but also to acknowledge the existence of many on-going issues. Unfortunately, worldwide one in three women are still expected to experience sexual or physical violence during their lives. Women are still paid less for doing the same work that men do. And unfortunately, if you are born a female in countries like Sudan, your life is pretty much screwed. Imagine being denied education, being forced to marry someone three times your age or not being able to make choices about your own body. This is unacceptable, but unfortunately, this is what many women/girls face today.

I believe it is our responsibility (both men and women) to speak up, starting in our daily lives. If you experience or witness any sort of discrimination or abuse we must not remain in silence. And then I believe it’s important to support women’s organisations which fight for gender equality all over the world.

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” — Mother Teresa

My aim is continue to inspire and empower women through the physical practice. To all women in this world, believe in yourselves and fight for what you believe in. We have not come this far, to only come this far!