I have something to say

I grew up in a country where traditionally young people and sometimes women only speak when spoken to. When people speak to you look down to show respect. You are only allowed to express your views and opinions and your sexuality if they are “agreeable” or will not upset the status quo. I find this limiting in terms of women representing our ideas and creativity. Every time you think of something new or simply want to tell your story you have to reconsider just in case it upsets a lot of people. Web 2.0 is an exciting opportunity for women to share their views and talk about issues that are relevant to their lives. I am excited because I will not only be able to share my story, and the stories of those women I work with, but I will also be able learn other women’s stories.
The statistics on women’s representation in leadership positions within the media circles is very discouraging. Only a small percentage of women get their stories told, or listened, yet we are equally passionate about development, politics, economics and even motor racing. The world will not create platforms for women to express their views, and I believe those women who have made it to the top, have had to fight to attain their positions and to maintain them. I don’t believe in fighting for everything. Web 2.0 is an empowering platform as it allows people like me to be heard. Whenever one has an audience it gives value to what they have to say. It allows you to grow as a person as well as allow others to grow. When people listen to you, you want to listen back, and I feel Web 2.0 is allowing women like me to have a say in a world where our voices have often been drowned. I might not have any life changing stories, or the cure for AIDS or the power to change the world, but I am certain that through my entries and sharing my views on Web 2.0 I can change someone’s world. I believe Web 2.0 will give women a voice, allow us to raise awareness on issues that affect us, create new and strengthen existing women’s movements and to learn new things. Due to the diverse backgrounds the women on this program come from, I feel worldpulse is bridging cultural gaps, strengthening the understanding of women’s causes globally.

The most exciting part is being able to network with a global community and let the world look into our lives and hopefully make people realize that despite our cultural, racial and educational backgrounds, all humans desire the same things. I am also very excited about the opportunity of mentorship, and being able to learn from alumnae and leaders in the media world. If a Sudanese woman can reach 14,000 people with her story via Web 2.0 I believe there is potential for all of us to be heard and contribute positively.