“VOF Week 1: ( A WAY TO FUTURE )”

While I was pursuing my Masters in Mass Communication and Journalism one point was repeatedly hammered again and again in our classroom- the importance of Feedback. As I began writing in local newspapers I didn’t see much of a feedback except from friends and people who knew me or were in the same profession; very few from strangers. I attributed it to the limited reach of the medium as well as indifference of people.

In a stark contrast to that my first post on Pulsewire (an excellent example of what Web 2.0 can do) generated a touching response. Together with other comments on my other posts it made me realize how people from different countries with diverse cultures, backgrounds, and temperaments can bond and relate to each other. I felt really happy for writing my posts and felt a fresh drive to do more.

The thing that excites me most about Web 2.0 is the interaction that is possible between people which can lead to sharing of ideas, problems, knowledge, solutions and much more.

Web 2.0 can be used to give a platform to women from all over the world to voice their ideas, opinions, problems, fears, issues, strengths, and weaknesses. . They can talk about themselves as individuals as well as their communities. As is common in most societies women are less heard and are rarely given an opportunity to speak or opine in matters of importance. In rural and underprivileged areas particularly in developing countries the problem is much pronounced. The bias is there even in urban folks.

This space created by women for themselves can lead to their betterment and can show them a way of future. A way that can result in solutions of their problems. A way that can lead women to have faith in themselves, can make them believe that they can make a difference. And this will definitely make them empowered to shape their lives and those of around them, empowered to take their own decisions.

“Thank you so much for writing that story about Rubeena. It was truly inspiring to read. I have a dear friend living in a favela in Rio de Janeiro. She makes beautiful purses and jewelry. She has lived in a very oppressed system her entire life and has raised a family by herself under difficult circumstances. It is her dream to do exactly what Rubeena did - to create her own business out of her passion and that someday that business could also provide opportunities for others. I can't wait to tell her the story of Rubeena, to remind her that these dreams come true.”

After reading this response to my post about a story of a woman, who has set up a floriculture business I really felt empowered. If I can reinforce someone’s belief in her dream I really feel powerful.