On International Women’s Day, we don’t just celebrate—we act. Across the globe, our sisters, partners-in-mission, and project participants came together to honor the strength, resilience, and potential of women and girls while raising awareness about the challenges they still face. From Brazil to South Africa and everywhere in between, our communities and ministries marked this day with events that brought empowerment, education, and collective hope.
At the Center for the Advancement of Women in Campinas, Brazil, a celebration organized by the Pastoral Team for Marginalized Women fostered reflection and joy. Women gathered to pray, dance, and share snacks, creating a space of unity and gratitude for the essence of being a woman. Taking the celebration further, the team visited women in the community, many of whom live in prostitution, offering small gifts and heartfelt encouragement.
Meanwhile, in Abreu Lima, the Good Shepherd Early Childhood Education Center hosted an event for 35 mothers focused on violence against women. With local professionals providing education and resources, participants left feeling informed and empowered to confront this critical societal issue.
At the Good Shepherd Convent in Chikkahesarur, India, 130 women from surrounding villages gathered to showcase their creativity and bring awareness to women’s rights. Through entertainment, songs, and dance dramas, they highlighted their struggles, achievements, and their pivotal roles in society. Vibrant social activist Mrs. Vijaya Rani also inspired attendees with stories of women who fought tirelessly for their freedom and rights. Together, they celebrated the resilience of women while igniting a shared spirit to overcome barriers.
Under the vibrant theme “Together We Can Forge Women’s Equality”, the Akhanani Good Shepherd Mission in South Africa hosted a spiritually uplifting celebration. The day focused on unity and action, with guest speakers discussing skill acquisition and health. Women from across the community gathered in prayer, discussions, and workshops to strengthen one another and commit to advancing change.
At the Good Shepherd Hebron Mission, a roundtable discussion addressed societal expectations and strategies for empowerment, emphasizing the power of women supporting women. Programs such as sewing classes have opened pathways to financial independence, showing how skill development can transform lives.
The Philippines celebrated International Women’s Day and Women’s Month with a synodal and collaborative approach. Events ranged from free medical and dental services in Quezon City and Legaspi to awareness campaigns on women’s health in Baguio. Mission partners also joined marches advocating against violence and trafficking, fostering partnerships among local organizations, NGOs, and government agencies. These efforts highlight the collective action necessary to advance the rights and welfare of women and girls.
The Good Shepherd center in Antananarivo, Madagascar, welcomed 250 women and girls for a day filled with prayer, training, and education. With impactful exchanges and learning opportunities, joy radiated throughout the community as the women celebrated their achievements and recognized their collective resilience. While the women of Menabe organized a series of activities highlighting both their environmental awareness and community spirit. In response to the recent cyclone, they mobilized to clean up the beaches. Celebrations also included a colorful parade that showcased the diversity, resilience, and strength of the women in the region.
While International Women’s Day offers a time to celebrate, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead. Women around the world continue to face hardships including economic injustice, trafficking, forced prostitution, and systemic inequalities. Access to education, healthcare, and resources remains unequal, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Our Good Shepherd mission remains steadfast in addressing these injustices. Guided by compassion and commitment, we forge partnerships, provide opportunities, and foster empowerment to expand the horizons for women and girls everywhere.
To the incredible women involved in the Good Shepherd mission, and to every woman and girl we serve—you are our inspiration!. Your courage and resilience light the way for a future of justice, equality, and opportunity.
And to our mission partners and advocates, your dedication brings us closer to a world where every woman and girl can thrive. Together, we can break barriers, build communities, and create a world where dignity and equality are the standard.
If you’re moved to make a difference, consider getting involved with one of our initiatives or spreading awareness about the mission’s work in your community. Together, we can accelerate change.
