First Lady and Chief Guide of the Maldives, Sajidha Mohamed, has highlighted the vital roles girls play in society, and called on them to face challenges with courage and confidence.
She made the call while speaking at the launch of a special march held to mark the International Day of the Girl Child.
International Day of the Girl Child is celebrated annually on 11 October. This year’s theme, “The Girl I Am, The Child I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis”, aims to celebrate girls' power and achievements, and advocate for their rights and empowerment globally.
Addressing the ceremony, the First Lady said she was pleased to see so many girls taking part in an event designed to raise and amplify their voices. She noted that the march reflects both the importance of girls and the challenges they face.
"The march you are taking part in today sends a clear message that girls are not meant to simply follow behind others, but that girls can also lead others and show the way,” she said.
The First Lady further said it was regrettable that the leadership shown by girls as children is later suppressed. She called on all girls to be bold and determined in changing this narrative.
"I call on all girls across the country to step forward and be brave. Do not retreat. Step forward because you are a girl, and lead by example. Being a woman does not mean backing down. Girls have their own voice. The gap in girls’ leadership must be eliminated. Just as you have joined this march, you must demonstrate your leadership as you progress to other stages of your life," she said.
Reflecting on this year's theme, the First Lady said the Girl Guide movement is dedicated to empowering girls, noting that Guides are among those who stand on the frontlines in times of crisis or disaster.
The First Lady expressed her satisfaction that the Guides are taking the lead in discussing their thoughts and the challenges faced by girls, and expressed hope that they would continue to be role models demonstrating strong leadership.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Maldives Girl Guides Association’s Chief Commissioner Aishath Nasheedha said the march served as an event for girls to share their thoughts and vision for their future, and to symbolise the leadership within girls. The Chief Commissioner said the activities taught through the Guide movement help prepare girls for life.
“I urge you all to become role models who work as brave leaders active in society with the knowledge and experience you gain,” she said.
The march began at Aminiya School on Chaandhanee Magu and progressed along Majeedhee Magu, concluding at the Social Centre. A large number of Girl Guides, Little Maids, Stars, Young Leaders and leaders participated in the event. They carried different placards expressing their hopes and aspirations for the future. A similar event was also conducted at Hulhumale’ Synthetic Track.