From Hardship to Brilliance: Women Supporting Women
The hardships in life are a universal human experience, often leading to feelings of isolation. However, my recent experience in Warsaw was like finding a diamond in the rough, filled with joy and motivation. The powerful stories shared by the speakers at the event conveyed a crucial affirmation: you are not alone. This sense of connection resonated not only in their career journeys but also in the emotional challenges they recounted, forming the heart of many inspirational talks.
One aspect that struck me about these talented women was their multifaceted nature. During one panel discussion, I was convinced that a particular speaker would be stern and composed offstage, just as she was onstage. To my surprise, moments later, we were clasping hands and giggling like schoolgirls. This unexpected connection, fueled by shared memories and kind words in my mother tongue, highlighted the bonds we formed.
Other speakers, like Ula Sankowska, Co-Founder and CEO of MIM Fertility, stood out for their openness about their struggles, which deeply resonated with me. Ula has dedicated her life to helping other women access IVF, ensuring they wouldn’t have to fight as hard as she did. Her message emphasised the importance of staying true to ourselves and supporting one another, reminding us that saying “yes” can lead both ourselves and others to unexpected dreams.
Audre Lorde once said, “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” This sentiment echoed throughout the event, emphasising the interconnectedness of our struggles. Unfortunately, some hardships are unavoidable for women, and sharing these experiences fosters a sense of community. It is through this collective understanding that many of us are motivated to create a better world. The glimmer of positivity emerging from these shared challenges was the brightest diamond at ELA.
This shared pressure became a guiding force for improvement among participants and speakers alike. A key takeaway from many of the speakers was how to transform pressure into resilience, rather than succumbing to the weight of our realities. ELA illuminated this path: I observed my fellow participants listening intently, their eyes shining brighter with each speaker's words.
While not all opinions voiced resonated with me, they offered valuable insights into diverse fields and illustrated how our differences can strengthen our foundation. I see it as different individuals discovering the right pressure needed for their own diamonds to take shape. The best pressure and environment proved unique for each person, reflecting how each speaker navigated her own hardships. This diversity serves as a reminder that, although we may share similar experiences, our individual responses can vary widely.
As I sit on the bus returning home from campus after a long day of working on deadlines, I find myself concluding this reflection on these remarkable speakers. I can feel the diamond taking shape within me, and I strive to find the balance needed to avoid being crushed while delving deep enough to create meaningful change.
Tesla Helena Visser on 14/11/2024
