I am inspired by the timeless wisdom of the Bahai elder Abdu'l Baha, who wrote: 'The world of humanity is possessed of two wings – the male and female. So long as these two wings are not equivalent in strength, the bird will not fly.' This profound truth underscores the vital importance of gender equality. All of society, both women and men, bear a responsibility of nurturing an environment where women and girls, including indigenous women, are supported and empowered to seize transformative opportunities that enrich their lives, and by extension uplift communities and transform society as a whole.