Learn from women who have defied stereotypes

Editor, Dr. Binagwaho is a living example of what women can achieve once they stand up together and denounce some of the things we've been told (that promote gender disparity) since childhood. There were different stories about what men and women are created to do, and it was deeply discouraging for the latter.

Thursday, September 04, 2014

Editor,

Refer to the story, "Career: Dr Binagwaho tips on juggling education and work” (The New Times, September 4).

Dr. Binagwaho is a living example of what women can achieve once they stand up together and denounce some of the things we’ve been told (that promote gender disparity) since childhood. There were different stories about what men and women are created to do, and it was deeply discouraging for the latter.

With what happened to Rwanda during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, times have changed and most women found themselves being the heads of families, raising their families alone by knocking on every door for any making the most of every opportunity.

We know very well that men and women can both attain whatever status in life, but it all begins with cleansing the mindset with all the nonsense that our ancestors grew up being indoctrinated into. In life, nothing comes on a silver platter but also nothing is impossible.

I thank Dr. Binagwaho for being the role model that women need to succeed in the once incognito and intimidating world. Let's hold each other's hand and move forward together towards the prosperity of Rwanda.

Mutara Intore, Rwanda