“The future is female”, a phrase engraved on a pin I got from an event during a summer camp in Girl Scouting. Sometimes it got me thinking, “Is there a better future for us women?”,” Should we aspire to be in power, or to be empowered?”

Being in power typically means holding a position of authority or control over others, and it’s more about having the ability to make decisions and influence outcomes. On the other hand, being empowered means having the confidence to take control of one's own life, the ability to make choices, and to achieve goals. It's more about personal strength rather than having authority over others. 

The word power is often associated with men in high positions in our patriarchal society. Men have always been in control. Being in power gives you influence over others. But the thing is, power is only temporary.  It is much more sustainable to be empowered because not only does it give you confidence as a woman,  it also starts within you—and that is true power. 

An empowered woman does not limit herself to a world full of societal gender norms and stereotypes. In a society where men are praised for doing just the bare minimum, and wherein women need to work twice as hard just to be noticed. This is what is commonly known as ‘double standards’. We, as women, should stand up for ourselves and not turn a blind eye to the inequality that we face. This is where women empowerment comes in, because as an empowered woman, you’ll be confident enough to stand up for yourself facing the injustices that are happening around us. Women empowerment is not just an individual endeavor, it's about collective action and solidarity among women. 

Empowered women support and uplift one another, creating a powerful network of allies and advocates. By coming together, we amplify voices and prompt change on a larger scale, creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. In essence, women empowerment is about more than just individual success or influence—it's about challenging systemic inequalities, breaking down barriers, and creating a world where all women have the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential. It's a movement towards greater equality, justice, and empowerment for women everywhere. “Babae ka, ‘di ka babae lang”