Identity & Self-Worth: The Power of Knowing Who You Are

Identity & Self-Worth: The Power of Knowing Who You Are

Part 1 From the series: “70 Life Lessons at 70 For African Women & Girls From Dr Gloria Shoda” 

By Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda

“The most powerful thing a woman can ever be is herself — unapologetically.”
— Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda

Every woman’s journey begins not with her career, her marriage, or her titles — but with her identity.
In a world that constantly tells us who to be, how to act, what to wear, and what dreams are “too big” for us, knowing who you are becomes a revolutionary act.

I have lived long enough to see generations of women rise and fall by how deeply they understood their own worth. Some waited for validation. Others built their self-worth on applause. But the women who truly thrived — those who left a mark — were the ones who stood tall in the truth of who they were, whether the world agreed or not.

🔹 Lesson 1: Know Who You Are — Your Value Is Not Defined by Your Circumstances

You are not your background. You are not your challenges. You are not what happened to you — you are what you choose to become.

When I first began my leadership journey, there were times I walked into rooms where no one expected a woman, let alone an African woman, to lead. I learned quickly that people’s opinions of you do not have to become your reality.

If you know who you are, you walk into every space as an equal — not because someone gave you permission, but because you already belong.

Remember: Your worth is not situational. It is intrinsic.

🔹 Lesson 2: Never Apologize for Your Strength

There is something radiant about a woman who is both gentle and powerful — who leads without shouting, and stands firm without bitterness.
As women, we have often been told that strength makes us “too much.” But your strength is your superpower.

Strength is not arrogance. It is self-awareness in motion.
When you stand strong in your convictions, you become a mirror for others who are still learning how to believe in themselves.

So stand tall. Do not shrink to make others comfortable. Shine — so they can see what’s possible.

🔹 Lesson 3: Carry Your African Identity with Pride

To be African is to be rich — in history, in culture, in resilience, in grace.
Our roots tell stories of queens, warriors, builders, mothers, and visionaries. When you walk through life, carry that heritage proudly.

Do not let anyone convince you that success means abandoning your culture. True sophistication is being grounded in your origins while reaching for global excellence.

Wear your identity like a crown, not a chain.

🔹 Lesson 4: Your Voice Matters — Use It

Silence can be wise, but silence can also be dangerous when it hides truth.
Every time a woman speaks her truth — in the boardroom, in her community, or even within her home — she shifts the atmosphere.

Your words have power. Speak for those who cannot. Speak to affirm yourself. Speak to rewrite the narratives that limit women and girls.

Never underestimate what your voice can change.

🔹 Lesson 5: Beauty Radiates from Character

We live in an age that glorifies appearances — filters, likes, and curated perfection. But real beauty has always been deeper.
It is in kindness, integrity, grace, and confidence.

When a woman walks with purpose, she glows.
When she treats others with dignity, she shines.
And when she knows her worth, no mirror can measure her beauty.

💡 Reflection Corner

Take a quiet moment and ask yourself:

Who am I beyond my roles and titles?

What do I truly value?

Do I see myself the way my Creator sees me — whole, capable, and worthy?

Write it down. Own it. Live from it.

Legacy Challenge for the Day 

This week, affirm your worth daily.
Stand before your mirror each morning and say:

“I am worthy. I am capable. I am enough — just as I am.”

Then, go out and live like you believe it.
Because the world doesn’t need another imitation — it needs you, authentic and unafraid.

Closing Thought

A woman who knows who she is cannot be broken.
She may bend, she may be bruised, but she always rises — rooted in truth, clothed in dignity, and crowned with purpose.

So, my dear sisters, know who you are — and never forget whose you are.
Because when you stand in that power, you become unstoppable.

Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda is a Board Member; International Council of Women, (ICW), President; Africa Regional Council of Women, (ARCW), and Founder/President; Africa League of Women Voters (ALWOV).

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