In light of the commemoration of #InternationalWomensDay, I would like to share my noteworthy experience during the first quarter of 2023. I would first like to express my gratitude to Loretta Green-Williams who has always believed in me and provided unwavering support every step of the way. Additionally, I am thankful for Jude Akinyemi’s guidance and positive contributions to my personal and professional development.  Growing up in a culturally rich village community is often synonymous with #patriarchal ideals. As someone born and raised in a Javanese cultural environment, I take pride in my heritage. Javanese culture is characterized by a gentle, polite, and refined demeanor, which unfortunately is often interpreted as a bias that #Javanese women must obey all commands from their husbands, parents, in-laws, and even society. These attitudes have perpetuated #genderstereotypes that still exist in the public consciousness.  For example, some consider it unnecessary for #women to pursue higher education, as their future lies in domestic roles such as being a housewife. Others believe that high education is a waste of time and resources for women.  During the #sdgs 2023 conference held in Malang, East Java, Indonesia, I presented an essay titled:

"WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT FOR ACCELERATING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN INDONESIA: A CHALLENGE TO GENDER STEREOTYPES.“

This essay discussed the urgent need to combat gender stereotypes and #promote #genderequity and #equality, as enshrined in the fifth goal of the SDGs.  I am honored to have received recognition as the 🥈2nd best essay🥈 and to have had the opportunity to advocate for the eradication of gender stereotypes. To achieve this goal, I put women's empowerment as an essential solution.  As per the 2023 Statista Research Department, Indonesia is still ranked 92 out of 146 countries in terms of the international gender gap. We must promote women's leadership, education, entrepreneurship, political participation, health, and environmental sustainability to combat gender stereotypes and promote gender equity and equality. I am grateful to Women of Concern Professionals & Strategic Conscious Networking (WOCPSCN) for allowing me to be a part of the International Congress Committee and for the opportunity to realize their vision and mission in #promoting equality and #justice for gender.

"Let's #accelerate SDGs by combatting gender stereotypes from the grounds!"