There is a tendency for us to think that money can solve all our problems, but it is not the way it works. Problems within our societies exist all around the world. Based on the G20 model, the G(irls)20 Summit brings together 21 girls from all over the world to discuss and come up with solutions for these different existing issues. Because of the forward-looking approach, the G(irls)20 Summit will encourage delegates to tackle the same issues the G20 leaders are focusing on, one in particular is how to improve agriculture globally. The spin we offer is to do this by empowering women.
As the 2012 Delegate of France, I am proud to say that my country has implemented different laws and campaigns to improve the status of women. During the past 10 years, a national number has been created to help victims of domestic or any form of violence. Different laws were created to condemn violence against women and make sure the aggressors are punished. Unfortunately, a lot remains to be done. Violence against women is internationally recognized as a problem, but in certain societies, it is still a reality and is fully accepted by everyone as a "norm." While their injuries are sometimes treated, the psychological and social repercussions are never treated, which leaves victims with scars.
This violence leads to bigger problems: women are seen as inferior in certain societies and their skills and abilities are not used to extend the improvement of agricultural technologies. The importance of a politic for an agriculture that propels quantity and quality of resources needs both men and women to occur. For this to take place, education is needed. Education is one of the things that can never be taken away from anyone. By providing education to women and girls all around the world, we empower them for life. By education, I do not only mean learning how to read and write, but also providing them with skills to help them supply their families with resources. Education enables women to become their own person and not rely on anyone. I think this should also include the creation of a moral support system to make them realize that they are not alone and listening to their questions and concerns. Sometimes all you need is a little bit of encouragement.
At the G(irls) 20 summit, I hope to discuss and develop different ideas on how I can continue my journey towards a better society, a better "us." My number is 25,064. What's your number? How do you want to make a difference in this world? There are 3.5 billion girls and women around the world and therefore more than 3 billion ways to change the world. This summit represents and amazing opportunity and is powered by incredible companies like Nissan, Google, Norton Rose and Scotia Bank who are using their power to help make a difference and empower women. Join the campaign! Take a couple of minutes to reflect on what you think should be improved and on different ways to get involved with that change. Then, ACT. The only limits are the ones that you set yourself. Change, one girl at a time.