Hello amazing global community of justice campaigners!
I am honoured to be here, among a group of fearless and inspiring people who are championing for justice in all its forms, across communities and countries. Your passion and dedication in advocating for a more equitable and kinder world touches my heart and fills my soul with pride.
Today, I have a request, that is to connect, learn, collaborate, and create meaningful change with all of you, focusing on a crucial aspect that is often overlooked: gendered ageism.
Ageism, particularly when it intersects with gender, race, ethnicity and socioeconomic background is an issue that affects women (i.e. people who identify as, as well as non-binary) worldwide as they grow older.
It pains me to experience and witness the unfair treatment and discrimination that older women face in various societies such as the U.K.
However, instead of being discouraged, I am filled with hope because I will connect with people like you and together, we will challenge societal expectations and stereotypes and make a profound positive social justice impact.
I believe that our collective strength lies in embracing the wisdom of age and educating, engaging, enabling and empowering women to age gracefully on their own terms.
This empowerment can be achieved in culturally sensitive and culturally relevant ways that draw upon the rich heritage, strengths, wisdom, and resilience of the women we support.
I look forward to learning from your experiences, sharing my own and discovering how women are perceived and valued in your respective societies as they grow older.
Understanding the unique challenges they face will enable us to craft effective strategies to combat ageism, dismantle stereotypes, and foster inclusive societies that appreciate the wisdom and contributions of every woman, regardless of age.
Imagine the possibilities when we combine our diverse backgrounds, experiences, and knowledge!
Together, we can create programs and initiatives that uplift and support older women, promoting their well-being, dignity, and empowerment.
Together we can prepare younger women so they will not fear getting older.
Through our collaborations, we can inspire cultural shifts that redefine societal attitudes towards ageing, fostering a world where age is seen as a privilege and badge of honour and not a barrier to abundant opportunities.
I am eager to connect with each one of you, to learn from your stories, learn from your expertise, and explore the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
Fellow Changemakers, let's make our voices heard.
Let’s make our presence felt.
Let us unite our strengths, wisdom and challenge and eradicate gendered ageism.
Thank you for your time.
With much respect, boundless hope and fierce determination,
Ola Fagbohun
Founder and Ageing Well Consultant/Researcher/Facilitator
Zest OF: You
https://zestofyou.co.uk
Whatsapp: +44 7307 471144