African Echoes: Breaking the Shackles of gender stereotypes

Dear Diary,

Today, as I sit here and pour my heart out to you, I can't help but feel overwhelmed by the weight of societal expectations placed upon me simply because I am a woman. Growing up in this typical African home, I was taught that my future would revolve around leaving my parents' house and moving to my husband's house. From a very young age, the values of a woman were deeply ingrained in me, like an unyielding echo that followed my every step.

Living in this environment, I am constantly reminded that I am not allowed to make mistakes in the home, as it would imply a lack of proper upbringing. Any misstep is met with the reprimanding words, "Is this what you will be doing in your husband's house?" I am tired of this never-ending loop of expectations and limitations.

I am human, and like any human, I am flawed. But in this place, it feels as though my flaws are amplified, and any mistake I make is attached to this notion of my future husband's house. It's as if my worth as a woman is solely dependent on being the "perfect" homemaker. I want to scream and tell them that I am not perfect, nor will I ever claim to be. I am allowed to make mistakes, to learn from them, and to grow.

There are times when I genuinely enjoy doing house chores, and I take pride in caring for my home. But that doesn't mean I should be confined to just that role. Other times, I yearn for a break, to relax and embrace the baby girl lifestyle. It doesn't make me lazy; it doesn't mean I won't do well in my husband's house. I believe in equality of all genders, and I firmly stand by the notion of mutual respect and submission in a marriage.

I am tired of being treated differently because of my gender. It's no longer acceptable to define my worth by society's traditional views. I am a woman, and I am so much more than the roles they try to box me into. I am strong, resilient, and capable of anything I set my mind to. My worth is not limited to my domestic abilities; it extends far beyond that.

I am taking a stand against this suffocating narrative, against being belittled and underestimated because I am a woman. I will no longer accept this notion that I am meant to serve and be less. I refuse to be confined by these outdated norms. I am reclaiming my power and my identity, embracing my flaws, and embracing my humanity.

So, here's to the journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment. I will embrace my imperfections, learn from my mistakes, and continue to grow into the person I want to be. I will strive to break these suffocating chains and pave the way for a future where women are celebrated for their strengths, dreams, and aspirations.

I am not just a woman; I am a force to be reckoned with. And I will no longer allow anyone to tell me otherwise.

Yours truly,



Nazy Ann