In this episode, Ishreen reflects on the intersection of International Women's Month and Ramadan, exploring the historical empowerment of women in early Islam. Ishreen discusses the revolutionary rights granted to women by Islam, such as financial independence, property ownership, and the right to education, contrasting these with the limitations faced by women in many societies, including the UK until the 1970s. Ishreen highlights influential female figures in Islamic tradition, such as Lady Khadija and Aisha, and emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive workplace environments that honour women's contributions while accommodating diverse religious practices.   KEY TAKEAWAYS This episode highlights the revolutionary changes brought about by Islam regarding women's rights, including the ability to manage finances, own property, choose marriage partners, and pursue education—rights that were often denied to women in many societies at the time. The discussion emphasizes the importance of female role models in Islamic history, such as Lady Khadija, Lady Fatima Zahra, and Aisha, who exemplified leadership, scholarship, and moral integrity, serving as inspirations for both women and men. Observing Ramadan while managing professional responsibilities presents unique challenges, such as maintaining productivity during fasting hours and finding time for prayer. The principles of self-discipline, mindfulness, and compassion during Ramadan are linked to the historical struggles of women for their rights, highlighting the resilience and vision required to achieve empowerment. Despite the advancements in women's rights within Islamic teachings, significant disparities remain in many Muslim communities due to patriarchal attitudes and cultural norms.   BEST MOMENTS "Islam gave women unprecedented rights, rights like independently managing their own finances, something that was not available even in the United Kingdom fully until the 1970s." "The month teaches us self-discipline, mindfulness and compassion, qualities that have historically enabled Muslim women to overcome those obstacles and assert their God-given rights." "Despite the advances in women's rights within Islamic teachings, I recognize that there remains a substantial disparity between the ideal principles and the actual conditions in many Muslim communities." "Aisha narrated more than 2000 hadith... and she became remembered as a major scholar in the area of hadith." "I'm inviting you, my professional network, to join me in reflecting on how we can create more inclusive environments that honour the contributions of women while respecting diverse religious practices." VALUABLE RESOURCES Privilege Survey  https://intelligentlinking261447.typeform.com/to/SNkQvD0v Website: https://belongingpioneers.com/privilege-research-and-podcast Email: equitychampions@belongingpioneers.com ABOUT THE HOSTS Ishreen Bradley, a Strategic Pioneer, excels in guiding Professional Leaders through complex challenges with clarity, confidence, and courage. She focuses on cultivating inclusive cultures and authentic leadership, offering senior leaders advice, consultancy, training, and coaching. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishreenbradley-diversity-equity-inclusion-advisor Privilege, Eruption, Culture, Diversity, inclusion, Equity, diverse, cultural, impact, power: https://privilege-eruption.com