Women, worth and what it means to flourish on your own terms

Success isn't always what society expects. This International Women's Day, three women share what it truly means to them.

- Faye Ng Yu Ci

In many parts of Europe, multicoloured chaos reigns across the country. Crowds swaddle bouquets made of an assortment of flowers in their arms - a tableau of pink, orange and yellow hues.

The occasion is International Women's Day and it's celebrated by all - men and women alike give flowers to their wives, girlfriends, mothers, sisters and daughters.

When we think about inspirational women, our minds often jump to those who have achieved great things - scaling mountains and running marathons, winning awards or becoming chief executives of companies and heads of state.

Of the inspirational women I've met, the ones who have left the deepest impression and most profound impact are those who have thrived despite all odds, marked by their resilience in the face of adversity.

Flourishing takes many forms, and "greatness" isn't just measured by accolades or external validation. There are battles fought behind closed doors and there is strength in carrying on when the world isn't watching.

It's important that we take a moment to recognise not just women whose successes are widely celebrated, but also those whose impact is felt in ways that never make the headlines.

FINDING JOY DESPITE THE ODDS

Auntie Joanne, a close family friend, is a mother of four children, one of whom has autism. She serves as the main caregiver as her husband is often based overseas for work - cooking and doing the laundry, picking the kids up from school and ferrying them to their extracurriculars, and tending to their academic and emotional needs.

She always goes the extra mile in making them feel loved and appreciated, be it remembering how they like their sambal chilli made, or organising a barbecue for their birthday.