By: Silvia Garcia, entertainment and luxury writer
In modern times, the world embraces inclusivity and equality in nearly every sector. One reason for its continuous rise among sectors is an increased global interconnectedness that exposes people to diverse perspectives, making the limitations of exclusion increasingly apparent.
Additionally, technological advancements have amplified marginalized voices, giving them platforms to challenge the status quo and demand visibility.
This embrace of inclusivity and equality isn’t just a matter of fairness; it fuels innovation, propels social progress, and unlocks the talents of all members of society, leading to a vibrant and more dynamic world for everyone.
Across the globe, numerous individuals are advocating for equality and inclusivity in various sectors. Among them is Mozambican entrepreneur Manisha Pratapsinh. She recently founded a bus company and dared to defy gender norms, encouraging women and everyone to chase their dreams and establish themselves in their respective societies.
Manisha’s journey wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. But it’s filled with valuable lessons that people can draw inspiration from.
She began her bus company after realizing the need for a private transportation service to accommodate Mozambicans, especially those traveling from rural areas. Although armed with experience from being a specialist in civil construction machinery, she worried about society’s reaction upon learning that a woman was behind such an innovative solution to the East African country’s transport issues.
“For a long time, I hid my business side out of fear of what people might say and judge me since it’s an area dominated by men,” she said. “The major difficulty I had and still face is always having to prove that we are capable of making significant decisions, considering that women are considered the weaker sex.”
Eventually, life brought her closer to a group of strong women who encouraged her to shine the spotlight on Manisha, the entrepreneur, rather than hiding her away out of fear of what others, particularly the men, might say.
It was a much-needed confidence boost for Manisha. It drove her further to meet her purpose in society as the woman who would drive change in Mozambique’s transportation industry.
She now spreads her message of equality and inclusivity to other women across the globe.
“I always say that women are capable of reaching wherever they want. Never stop fighting for a place in society,” she said. “I demonstrate in practice that, regardless of gender, age, and social status, anything is possible with focus and determination.”
As an entrepreneur that many people look up to, Manisha strives to do her best as a role model for women and dreamers. She values humility, honesty, commitment, and leadership as her core values to guide her every day.
Nonetheless, Manisha knows that life won’t always come easy. She makes every sacrifice worthwhile but never forgets what matters most.
“I always prioritize God, my family, and then my business. I do my best to balance everything, but it’s not always easy; life is made of sacrifices,” she said.
Regardless of whatever industry or goal people might have, Manisha continues to empower them with her message of inclusivity and how their background, gender, or race, among other aspects, should never keep them from making the most out of life.
Through her experiences, Manisha discovered the importance of solidarity among women and the necessity of amplifying their voices in a society where they are often marginalized. Despite facing numerous challenges and doubters, she found solace and strength in the support of other women. Her story is a reminder that true progress is achieved not by conforming to societal expectations but by daring to challenge them and forging a path toward a more equitable future for all.
Published by: Khy Talara
