As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is a time to reflect on the incredible progress we have made towards gender equality, while acknowledging the challenges that still lie ahead. As the CEO of Unspoken Smiles, an organization committed to improving the oral health of vulnerable communities, I am particularly passionate about empowering women and girls to achieve their full potential.
Women and girls face significant barriers to accessing oral healthcare, especially in low-income countries where resources are limited. Lack of education and awareness, cultural barriers, and financial constraints often prevent women from receiving the care they need to maintain good oral health. This can have serious consequences for their overall health and well-being, as well as their ability to fully participate in their communities and pursue their dreams.
At Unspoken Smiles, we are working to address these barriers and improve access to oral healthcare for women and girls. We believe that every person deserves to have a healthy smile, regardless of their gender, race, or socioeconomic status. By partnering with local organizations and healthcare providers, we are able to provide education, preventive services, and treatment to those who need it most.
In addition to our work on the ground, we also recognize the importance of promoting gender equality and empowering women in all aspects of society. Women have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many facing job losses, increased caregiving responsibilities, and a heightened risk of domestic violence. This has highlighted the urgent need to support women’s economic empowerment and ensure that they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
As we look to the future, we must continue to work together to advance gender equality and promote women’s rights. This includes addressing systemic barriers to women’s access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, as well as challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes. By investing in women and girls, we can build a more just and equitable world for all.
On this International Women’s Day, I am proud to stand with women around the world and reaffirm our commitment to gender equality. Together, we can create a brighter future for all, where every person has the opportunity to achieve their full potential and live a healthy, happy life.
Jean Paul Laurent
Founder & CEO
UNSPOKEN SMILES
