Whether we agree or disagree on the need for gender equality, there has been notable progress over the decades. Despite significant strides in gender equality, many women I teach, coach and support still face numerous barriers in both their personal and professional world.
These include and are not limited to barriers to professional development, family and societal expectations, and a lack of supportive networks. These obstacles prevent our aspiring Muslim women from reaching their full potential, and contributing to their family and economy.
Are you, or someone you know, a female trailblazer or influencer making a difference in the world today? If not, why not? What’s holding women back?
There’s an old African proverb “If you educate a man you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate a family/nation”.
Born into a home of low literacy and gender disparity, my good fortune arrived after having daughters. Alhamdullah, I had foresight. I understood educating women does more than just uplift them; it transforms entire families and communities.
When a woman is educated she is better equipped to take care of her family’s health, manage household finances and make informed decisions that benefit everyone.
When a woman is educated she may feel confident and encourage education and lifelong learning. When a woman is educated she may engage in critical thinking and may thrive to help contribute to a changing world.
The seeds of education and empowerment sown in women not only enhance their personal growth but also lead to substantial economic contributions, ultimately fostering stronger, more resilient communities and a brighter future for all.
Having worked over 40 years’ in various sectors, achieved formal qualifications in Management and Vocational Education and Training, and a global approach to building individual capabilities, I have helped thousands of women of all ages, backgrounds, experience and skill levels overcome barriers.
It has been my experience that three common barriers facing our Muslim working women include work-life balance challenges, skills gap and low confidence and self-esteem.
Work-life balance challenges
Balancing professional responsibilities with personal and family commitments can be a significant challenge for Muslim women, leading to stress and burnout.
Our sisters often find themselves juggling multiple roles—career professional, caregiver, homemaker—without adequate support. It is not surprising this juggling act commonly leads to high levels of stress and burnout, making it difficult to maintain professional growth and personal well-being.
Muslim women can (and should) continue to look after their families while pursuing their professional ambitions. Maintaining balance as a working woman is crucial to managing the dual pressures of professional responsibilities and personal commitments.
I strongly encourage shared domestic responsibilities within families. Seriously, with the right support and resources, the pressures women face can indeed be alleviated.
Skills gap
In addition to stress and burnout, it is no surprise many women find themselves lacking the necessary skills to compete and excel in their chosen fields.
This skills gap can be attributed to lack of training and leadership, societal expectations that steer women away from high-demand or male-dominated industries or struggles to advance in their careers.
By investing in your skill development, you not only eliminate pressures, you will feel more empowered and open to learn and grow further.
Low confidence and self-esteem
Many of our sisters struggle with self-doubt and low confidence, which has surely prevented them from pursuing opportunities, negotiating working conditions, or challenging the status quo.
It has been my experience that this lack of confidence can often be fueled by societal expectations, but more commonly internalized beliefs that as women, they are less capable than men.
I encourage women to celebrate their achievements, challenge negative self-perceptions and seek mentorship or coaching to help recognise strengths and talent. Why not uplift one another?.
To every woman, man and child facing challenges in an ever increasing changing world, do not despair. “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.” (Qur’an 2:286)
Do not feel alone. Do not feel pressured. Do not feel anxious. Rather, take comfort knowing what you are currently doing in your personal and professional world is developing your inner strength, capability and resilience.
Each step you take, no matter how small, is a stride toward a brighter and more empowered future. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and remember that every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
You have within you the power to rise above any obstacle and to shine your unique light brightly for the world to see.
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