What does this mean to you?

So here I am, writing these blog posts for you. And here you are, reading about an issue that is dear to my heart, and maybe dear to yours, too.
So why are we both here? What is it about female empowerment that has you up at night thinking diligently?
Do you want to empower others? Do you want to be empowered? I believe the answer to both of those questions is YES. Because we can all be impacted positively from a reciprocal relationship. I've highlighted Nonprofit Organizations, programs, leaders, and companies from around the world but I hope you understand that these are closer to home than you think. These women are the same as your friends, neighbors, family members; and when such people in our lives are in need of help, inspiration, or direction, we listen to them, don't we?
Through my blog and the stories I've read and shared with you all, that's the lesson I learned; in order to help others positively, we must first learn to listen to their needs and to work with them. Before I began my blog, I had an ignorant idea about how NGOs went in to communities after coming up with a strategic solutions in their offices. Instead, what I learned is that many global leaders and organizations go in to communities in need first, immerse themselves in the people and their cultures to get a better understanding, and then create dialogues to dig deep into communicating what exactly the communities need.
This process of dialogue is what makes powerful connections and what leads to successful programs that empower the voiceless all around the globe.  My initial interest in empowerment and leadership development came from my own backyard experience, too, by working with a group of students at my university. Serving as their president, I aided in the leadership and professional skill development for students ranging from freshmen and seniors. When I truly started to see my own peers gain confidence and let their personalities shine, I myself felt inspired, empowered, and grateful to see that the friendships and dialogues I craeated with these young leaders lead them on the right path to success.
As I continue my journey to expand as a global leader, I will keep my experiences and the lives I've encountered close to heart. And I encourage you all to do the same; start small by talking to someone you want to help; hear and listen to their stories and see how you can help each other. The language of compassion and respect are universal and has no barriers. We need inspired leaders to empower the powerless around the world. I hope the stories and thoughts I've shared willl help inspire you, too.