With Women’s History Month drawing to a close, Humber students spoke with Humber News about their thoughts about being seen, heard, mentored and encouraged.
Women such as Esthetician student Andrea Ayoub who says Women’s History Month is a way for women to have their voices heard and recognized.
“I am really grateful and happy to be a woman,” Ayoub said.
Early Childhood studies students Hannah Johnston and Sierra Blackburn said Women’s History Month can promote change to women’s necessities on and off campus, while highlighting the difficulties they’ve had, and continue to experience.
“Humber has a lot of equality, they do a great job showing the history of women. Everywhere you walk there’s a poster or something that celebrates women, but also shows their struggles,” said Blackburn.
“You even look at the sports teams, every sport at Humber has both a men’s and women’s team, and the women are represented well,” she added.
“Being a woman is super cool, I think women are awesome and we should always support each other,” said Fire Services student Andrea Valiente.
“But sometimes I do think what it would be like as a man though, because there is frustration and obstacles as a woman in certain aspects. Something as simple as walking alone can be problematic, and sometimes you feel like you have to go above and beyond just to prove yourself,” Valiente said.
Fire Services Hannah De-Leon said Women’s History Month empowers women and raises awareness for women who are finding their place and trailblazing in their own lives and careers.
“This is a great way to learn about past women and how far we’ve come, but also how much there’s still left to do,” said De-Leon.
In a program like Fire Services that is typically male-dominated, Valiente and De-Leon said they notice more women have shown interest in the program and they’re pioneering the program for the future.
“At first I thought there would be a huge difference and it would be a little rough, but now I know we can do it,” Valiente said.
“Our program has been good that way where we don’t feel discriminated against,” De-Leon added.
Students interviewed by Humber News also expressed appreciation and praise for their women faculty.
“The professors within our program are very good, they make things run a lot smoother and they too are doing a great job giving women a voice with their positions on campus,” said Blackburn.
Blackburn and Johnston also noted the many women in their lives who have supported their journey, like mothers, aunts, grandmothers and friends.
De-Leon cited cousins with whom she has close relationships, and Ayoub cited her grandmother who was like a second mom to her.
Esthetician student Bri Bennett’s spoke of her sisters and aunts who have inspired her, the many friends and classmates who supported her, and she also noted several famous women who have blazed a trail for rights and recognition.
Many students said Women’s History Month has been an opportunity to remember what is important and how to move ahead.
“Do what you like to do. Simply do what makes you happy. That’s the only way I think you could get through life,” said Valiente.
“Don’t go with the trends, make your own path, be unique because that is always going to make you stand out,” Said Dorothy D.
“Don’t let others discourage or demotivate you and what you want to do. If you have the spirit and the desire, go for it,” De-Leon said.
“As a woman you can’t put yourself down and make yourself feel small, you got to walk the halls with confidence and your head up high,” Ayoub said.
“Be yourself and always keep trying because you will figure it out. Don’t give up on yourself so easily and know your worth, even if a man or anyone tries to power over you,” said Blackburn.