An open letter to the invisible workforce

As we end International Women's Month, there's an understandable wave of enthusiasm to celebrate and honour the remarkable contributions of women.

However, we must pause and acknowledge a disheartening reality: as a society, we often find ourselves inadvertently shaming mothers, causing them to feel inferior and, in some ways, invisible. 

Mothers seem to face an unrelenting challenge when it comes to balancing parenting with their careers. I've observed full-time mothers being pitied by certain segments of society, who assume that they secretly yearn for a career but feel obstructed by motherhood.

Their lifestyle is sometimes deemed outdated, and they are unfairly deemed "less than" compared to their working counterparts.

Conversely, working mothers may encounter scrutiny for not being fully present, while those who work from home might face criticism for being distracted.

Women, in particular, keenly perceive the whirlwind of defeat that engulfs mothers who seemingly cannot satisfy societal expectations.

A noteworthy 2018 study by Welch revealed that working moms dedicate an average of 98 hours per week to their responsibilities, akin to holding down 2.5 full-time jobs. This statistic underscores the magnitude of motherhood as a demanding role in itself.

Considering this statistic and reflecting on my personal encounters, I advocate for reframing the concept of motherhood to include the essential element of self-validation.

Regardless of a mother's professional status, the value of her work cannot be accurately gauged by society's fickle standards and today I would like to use this platform to write an open letter to theworkforce of mothers. 

Dear Mothers,

I want to take this moment during Women's Month to extend my deepest admiration and respect to each and every one of you who have tirelessly juggled the demands of motherhood alongside your personal and professional endeavours.

Whether you're a full-time mom, a stay-at-home mother, or balancing both from home, your dedication, resilience, and unwavering efforts do not go unnoticed.

In a society that often undermines the complexities of motherhood and undervalues the incredible efforts you put forth, I want you to know that your work is brilliant, your sacrifices are seen, and your contributions are immeasurable.You are not defined by the state of your career or the judgements of others.

Your ability to nurture, guide, and inspire not only shapes the lives of your children but also influences the fabric of our society. Your strength in navigating the challenges, the guilt, and the expectations is nothing short of remarkable!

Today, this column celebrates YOU—the mother who works tirelessly, loves fiercely, and redefines what it means to be extraordinary on a daily basis.

Love, Charlotte Makala.

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