A blog by Amanda Sefton, UJS Sabbatical Officer

This year for International Women’s Day, UJS brought together Jewish female leaders to share some of their top tips, and inspire young Jewish women to be brave and #ChoosetoChallenge.  

The theme of ‘ChoosetoChallenge’ is focused on people coming together and explicitly saying they are challenging sexism, misogyny and gender discrimination to push for a better and more equal society. I think the concept is an interesting one and it's important to criticise and raise those important questions about why are women discriminated against. But I see the concept of ‘challenge’ as only the first step, with the next step as action. Yes, we must educate and challenge these sexist ideas, but we can do more, we can act.  

Actions speak louder than words, and collectively we can make real change. How many times do you see something on social media and just talk about it or share it? This is important to raise awareness of these issues but there is still more we need to begin to do. I think this international women’s day has taught me to take that next step and focus my time and energy on making that impact. I spend my days working on projects about how can we can continue to inspire Jewish female students, ensuring we create a safe space for women on campus, but also provide them opportunities to feel empowered.  

Challenge the views, but act to make a change.