International Women's Day post

There has been a lot of discussion about what it's like to be a woman in science, engineering, or any other field. We are taught sciences, engineering or whatever. But no one teaches us how to be a woman. And that, in itself, isn't easy, especially for those of us with a Central Asian background.

As a woman from Kazakhstan, I see the constant pressure women endure in my country. Women in high positions, with successful careers and great incomes, are constantly met with comments like, "When are you going to get married?" or "Look at your classmate—she already has three kids, while you're just living for your own passion."

And what about those who choose to prioritize their family over their career? They don't escape the scrutiny either. Instead, they hear remarks about how others manage to balance both, how some look as youthful in their 40s as they did in their 20s. "Why are you tired? You've never worked a day in your life—just sitting at home with the kids."

So, as when highlighting the achievements of one woman, let's not diminish the accomplishments of another. Every woman faces struggles that are left outside of the glamorous women's empowerment conferences or mediocre feminist-themed movies.

Happy International Women's Day, ladies! 🌷 Let's remember - we are all humans first all… and then women.