DR SANDRA SWABY, COSMETIC SURGEON & FOUNDER, HARMONY HEALTH COSMETIC CLINIC

Women inclusion starts with first recognising the unique experiences and contributions of women to society, while actively fostering an environment where all women feel valued and respected.

Womanhood is unique, as is manhood — our historical roles are currently being rewritten to include our enlightenments, challenges, triumphs and lessons learnt. When I walk into a room, every woman I see is me — seeing my story in every woman’s eyes is comforting, humbling and empowering. Those moments of connectedness with other women allows me to embrace the collective strength that comes from our shared experiences of resilience and determination, even as we are on our own paths to healing journeys, embracing the fullness of life with joy, determination, happiness and self-love in overcoming common obstacles.

#InspireInclusion, for me, means celebrating women not only on designated days, but every day, acknowledging their achievements, and amplifying their voices. Including and investing in women should be a way of life where there are equal and equitable opportunities to uplift us in all aspects of our life.

In my personal and professional capacities, I actively engage, encourage and empower women. At my cosmetic practice, Harmony Health, I employ several women and consistently provide opportunities where they can learn, grow and thrive in all areas of their lives. As an advocate of self-love, I take every opportunity I get, whether in private or on public platforms, to speak positivity into the lives of women, encouraging them to live a full life as they pursue their dreams, passions and ambitions with confidence and boldness, regardless of societal norms or expectations.

My hope for women all across the world is that, sooner than later, there will come a time, when regardless of our race, colour, shape, size or any other factor, we will be able to live freely — free to make our own decisions without fear of judgement or shame, and that we will be included justly, not simply to meet a quota, but because we are human beings who deserve to be seen, heard and included.