On International Women’s Day, I find myself reflecting on a truth that many women face but rarely talk about openly: sometimes the hardest criticism comes not from men, but from other women. In my journey, I’ve met both kinds—women who genuinely support, guide, and celebrate each other’s growth, and women who see another woman’s progress as competition. I feel fortunate that most of the women I have met have been uplifting, but the small percentage who choose jealousy, trolling, or negativity reminds us that the culture of “women supporting women” still has a long way to go.
Recently, I shared my views in an interview on a digital platform about serious industry issues, drawing from years of experience. What surprised me was seeing a few young professionals respond with trolling and name-calling rather than trying to understand the conversation. It made me pause and ask: what is the real goal? A few moments of attention, or a career built on respect, knowledge, and credibility? From Gen X to Millennials to Gen Z, this pattern exists everywhere—families, friendships, and workplaces. Perhaps the hope lies with the next generation, who can learn that someone else’s success does not diminish their own.
Over the years, I have tried to stand beside women whenever I could. Sometimes that meant protecting someone from a toxic boss, helping save a job, offering a place to stay, or simply listening when someone needed support. I do not see these acts as personal achievements; I believe we are instruments chosen by Allah to help others. Rizq, respect, and peace come from Him alone. When we truly believe that, jealousy loses its hold. My hope this Women’s Day is simple: that more women choose to lift other women, because when one woman rises with integrity, she opens the path for many more to follow.
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