ഈ അധ്യായത്തെ Thrills of Empowerment എന്ന് വിളിക്കാനാണ് എനിക്കിഷ്ടം. നിങ്ങള്ക്ക് 3 Ls എന്നും വിളിക്കാം.
സ്ത്രീകൾക്ക് വീട്ടിൽ മാത്രമല്ല സമൂഹത്തിലും ജോലിസ്ഥലങ്ങളിലും എന്നുവേണ്ട രാഷ്ട്രീയത്തിലും വലിയ കാര്യങ്ങൾ ചെയ്യാം എന്ന് ഫ്രാൻസിൻ്റെ ധനകാര്യ മന്ത്രി ആയിരുന്ന ക്രിസ്റ്റീൻ ലഗാടീ പറയുമ്പോൾ അവർ ഒരു സ്ത്രീ ആണെന്ന കാര്യം ആണ് നമ്മൾ ആദ്യം ഓർക്കേണ്ടത്.
Notes
- Women’s empowerment is essential for building a strong and fair world.
- Many women face obstacles that stop them from achieving their full potential.
- This affects the economy, as women contribute less despite being half the population.
- The solution lies in the three Ls—Learning, Labour, and Leadership.
- Learning is the first step. Education gives women the power to shape their future.
- An educated woman can find good opportunities and make wise decisions.
- In some places, girls are denied education, making their lives difficult.
- There is a saying: “If you educate a girl, you train a village.”
- Educating women leads to progress in families and communities.
- Labour is the second step. Women must have the right to work and earn fairly.
- Many women face problems like low wages, unfair treatment, and limited opportunities.
- Women often earn less than men, even when doing the same job.
- Equal pay for equal work should be a universal rule.
- Laws must ensure that women have equal property and inheritance rights.
- Leadership is the third step, helping women take important roles in society.
- Women lead with care, teamwork, and a focus on long-term progress.
- Despite their abilities, many women lack confidence due to societal barriers.
- The world needs more women leaders to inspire future generations.
- Countries that support women in work and leadership have stronger economies.
- Financial independence empowers women and benefits society.
- Governments should create policies that ensure fair opportunities for all women.
- Breaking barriers will lead to happiness, success, and growth for everyone.
- Women’s empowerment reduces poverty and improves health and education.
- “If we dare the difference, the difference will deliver.”
- This means that courage and action will bring a brighter future for all.
Questions and Answers
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Explain the significance of the 3 Ls of women’s empowerment. How do they contribute to economic and social progress?
The “3 Ls”—Learning, Labour, and Leadership—are important factors that help women become independent and contribute to society. Learning gives women knowledge and skills that help them improve their lives. Without education, women may struggle to find good jobs or make informed decisions. Labour allows women to work and earn money. However, many women face challenges such as unequal pay and limited job opportunities. Leadership is the third step, where women take important roles in society, make decisions, and create positive change. When women are educated, employed, and leading, the economy grows, and society becomes more fair and balanced.
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Discuss the role of education in empowering women. Why is education considered the foundation for change?
Education is the most important factor in women’s empowerment because it gives them the knowledge to improve their lives. When women are educated, they can find better jobs, make wise decisions, and help their families. In many developing countries, girls do not have the same chances as boys to study, and this keeps them from reaching their full potential. Without education, women may depend on others for financial support, and they may not know about their rights. Education helps break these barriers and allows women to stand up for themselves, work in good jobs, and contribute to society.
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If you educate a boy, you train a man. If you educate a girl, you train a village.
This proverb means that educating a girl does not just help her—it helps her whole community. When a woman is educated, she teaches her children, helps her family, and influences others around her. She can spread knowledge, make good financial decisions, and encourage others to study. This creates a cycle of improvement where education leads to better health, stronger economies, and fairer societies. Educating women is one of the best ways to ensure that future generations grow up with more opportunities.
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Examine the challenges women face in the workforce. What measures can be taken to ensure equal pay for equal work?
Women face many challenges in the workforce, including lower salaries, fewer promotions, and workplace discrimination. Even when women have the same education and experience as men, they often earn less money. Many women are also forced to work in low-paying jobs with fewer benefits. To fix this problem, governments should create laws that ensure equal pay for equal work. Companies must also treat men and women fairly by providing equal opportunities for promotions and leadership roles. Creating a fair work environment will help women succeed and contribute more to the economy
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How does labour participation help women achieve their true potential? Illustrate with examples from developing and developed nations.
Labour participation allows women to use their talents and skills in jobs that help society grow. In many developing countries, women are expected to stay home instead of working, which limits their ability to contribute financially. However, in places where women can work freely, economies grow faster. For example, in Scandinavian countries, policies encourage women to enter the workforce, leading to stronger economies and more balanced societies. In contrast, countries where women have fewer job opportunities often struggle with poverty and inequality. Allowing women to participate in labour helps both individuals and nations progress.
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Discuss the legal and policy changes required to eliminate gender disparities in economic participation.
Many laws and policies prevent women from participating equally in the economy. For example, property and inheritance laws in some countries do not allow women to own land or businesses, making it difficult for them to become financially independent. Governments should change these laws to ensure that women have the same rights as men. Workplace policies must also be improved to prevent discrimination and ensure equal pay. Providing women with more access to education, credit, and healthcare will also help them enter the workforce and become independent.
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Explain how property and inheritance laws impact women’s economic independence. Suggest reforms that could promote gender equality.
Property and inheritance laws play a key role in women’s economic independence. In many countries, women do not have the right to inherit land or property, meaning they must depend on male relatives for financial support. This makes it difficult for them to start businesses or own homes. To promote gender equality, governments should change inheritance laws so that women receive the same rights as men. Allowing women to own property and land will give them financial security and increase their ability to contribute to the economy.
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Leadership enables women to rise and fulfill their innate abilities and talents. What barriers prevent women from becoming leaders?
Leadership is crucial for women’s empowerment, but many barriers prevent them from rising to leadership positions. One major problem is societal expectations—many people believe that men should be in charge, and women should follow. Because of this, fewer women are given chances to lead in business, government, or communities. Another issue is confidence—women often hesitate to take leadership roles because they fear failure. Additionally, women may face workplace discrimination, making it harder for them to get promoted. Encouraging leadership training, creating supportive environments, and changing societal attitudes can help women succeed.
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Women sometimes lack the confidence to match their competence.
This statement means that women often have the skills and ability to succeed, but they do not believe in themselves. Society has created the idea that men should be strong and confident leaders, while women should be quiet and supportive. Because of this, many women hesitate to take leadership roles or express their opinions. Psychological factors also play a role—women often doubt their abilities and fear making mistakes. This prevents them from taking risks or aiming for higher positions. To overcome this, women must be encouraged to develop self-confidence and believe in their talents
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Compare the leadership styles of women with men. How do traits such as consensus-building and long-term sustainability shape their leadership?
Women often lead differently from men because they focus more on teamwork and cooperation. Many female leaders prefer to build consensus, meaning they listen to different opinions before making decisions. They also focus on long-term goals, ensuring that their decisions benefit people in the future. On the other hand, some male leaders may focus more on competition and quick decisions. Both styles of leadership have value, but women often bring a more inclusive and sustainable approach to leadership. Encouraging more female leaders will create balanced decision-making in businesses and governments.
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Suggest initiatives that governments can take to improve women’s education, workforce participation, and leadership opportunities.
Governments can take several steps to empower women. First, they should provide free and quality education for girls, especially in rural areas, to ensure that all women have access to learning. Second, governments should create laws that guarantee equal pay for equal work and prevent workplace discrimination. Third, they should encourage companies to promote women into leadership roles by offering incentives or setting quotas. Additionally, governments can provide financial support, such as loans or grants, to help women start businesses and achieve economic independence. These initiatives will help women contribute more to society and the economy.
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The gender wage gap remains a global issue. What steps should businesses take to address this discrepancy?
Businesses can play a major role in reducing the gender wage gap. They should ensure that men and women receive equal pay for the same work and qualifications. Companies must also create transparent policies for promotions and salaries to prevent discrimination. Training programs can help managers understand the importance of gender equality and create fair workplaces. Businesses should also provide flexible working hours and childcare facilities to support women employees. By addressing these issues, companies can create a more inclusive environment and help close the wage gap.
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Debate whether gender-based quotas in leadership positions are an effective solution for increasing women’s representation in decision-making roles.
Gender-based quotas can be an effective way to increase women’s representation in leadership positions. They ensure that women are given opportunities to lead and break traditional barriers. Quotas can help create role models for younger women and encourage them to aim for leadership roles. However, some people argue that quotas may lead to unfair selection, where leaders are chosen based on gender rather than merit. To balance this, quotas should be combined with training programs to ensure that women are prepared for leadership roles. Overall, quotas can be a useful tool for promoting gender equality.
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How can women step outside their comfort zones and dare the difference in various spheres of life? Provide motivational strategies and examples.
Women can step outside their comfort zones by believing in their abilities and taking risks. They should focus on their strengths and set ambitious goals for themselves. For example, a woman who wants to start a business can begin by learning about entrepreneurship and seeking financial support. Women can also find mentors or role models who inspire them to take bold steps. Joining leadership programs or networking groups can help women build confidence and explore new opportunities. By daring the difference, women can achieve success and inspire others to do the same.
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Economic development is closely tied to women’s empowerment. Argue why reducing gender inequality should be a priority for policymakers.
Reducing gender inequality is essential for economic development because women make up half of the population. When women are educated and employed, they contribute to the economy by earning money, paying taxes, and supporting businesses. Studies show that countries with higher gender equality have stronger economies and better living standards. Gender inequality also leads to wasted potential, as many talented women are unable to work or lead. Policymakers should prioritize gender equality by creating laws that support women’s education, employment, and leadership. This will lead to faster economic growth and a more balanced society.
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Discuss the social and economic costs of denying women equal opportunities. How does this impact GDP and overall societal well-being?
Denying women equal opportunities has serious social and economic costs. When women are excluded from education or work, they cannot contribute to the economy, which lowers GDP. Families also suffer because women cannot earn money to support their children. Socially, gender inequality creates unfair systems where women are treated as less important than men. This leads to higher poverty rates and slower development. By giving women equal opportunities, societies can reduce poverty, improve health and education, and create stronger economies. Empowering women benefits everyone, not just women themselves.
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How can financial institutions improve women’s access to credit and entrepreneurial opportunities?
Financial institutions can help women by offering loans and grants specifically for female entrepreneurs. They should create programs that teach women how to manage money and start businesses. Banks can also reduce the paperwork and requirements for loans to make it easier for women to access credit. Providing lower interest rates for women can encourage them to invest in businesses and become financially independent. By supporting women financially, institutions can help them achieve their goals and contribute to the economy.
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Imagine you are advising a developing country on policy reforms for gender equality. What recommendations would you make based on the principles outlined in the speech?
To promote gender equality, I would recommend several policy reforms. First, the government should provide free education for girls and ensure that schools are safe and accessible. Second, laws should be created to guarantee equal pay for equal work and prevent workplace discrimination. Third, property and inheritance laws should be changed to give women the same rights as men. Fourth, the government should offer financial support, such as loans and grants, to help women start businesses. Finally, leadership training programs should be introduced to encourage women to take on decision-making roles. These reforms will help create a fairer and more prosperous society.
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Write a persuasive essay on how empowering women can create a more prosperous and balanced world.
Empowering women is one of the most effective ways to create a prosperous and balanced world. Women make up half of the population, but they often face barriers that prevent them from contributing fully to society. By providing education, employment, and leadership opportunities, we can unlock their potential and create stronger economies. Studies show that countries with higher gender equality have better living standards and faster development. Empowering women also improves families, as educated and employed women can support their children and communities. It is time to break the barriers and create a world where all women can succeed.
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The speech concludes with If we dare the difference, the difference will deliver. Interpret this statement and explain how courage and action drive social transformation.
This statement means that taking bold steps to empower women will lead to positive changes in society. Women must have the courage to step outside their comfort zones and take risks, whether it is pursuing education, entering the workforce, or becoming leaders. At the same time, governments and businesses must take action to remove barriers and create equal opportunities. When women are given the chance to succeed, they bring new ideas, skills, and perspectives that benefit everyone. By daring the difference, we can create a fairer and more prosperous world.
Textual Analysis
Good afternoon. It is great to be among friends and kindred spirits. The 21st century poses many challenges that require new ways of thinking, none more important than the economic role of women in a rapidly changing world. But women today remain blocked from contributing their true potential. This has a huge cost. In some countries, per capita income lag significantly because women are denied equal opportunity. They represent half the world’s population, but contribute far less than 50 per cent of economic activity. What is needed to change this picture is a concerted effort to open the door to opportunity with what I call the “3 Ls” of women’s empowerment: learning, labour and leadership.
First about learning: Education is the foundation upon which any change is built. Learning helps women to help themselves and break the shackles of exclusion. Nowhere is this more essential than in the developing world. There is an African adage that goes: “If you educate a boy, you train a man. If you educate a girl, you train a village.”
If learning is just the first step, labour is the second. Labour facilitates women to flourish and achieve their true potential. But at present, when women participate in the workforce, they too often tend to get stuck in lowpaying, low-status and low-security jobs. Globally, women earn only three-quarters as much as men — even with the same level of education and in the same occupation. Surely, one of our most basic norms should be ìequal pay for equal work!î Recent researches show that eliminating gender gaps in economic participation can bring an increase in per capita income. We can undoubtedly promote more opportunity for women in the workplace. It is all about changing laws; for example, by ensuring that property and inheritance laws do not discriminate against women.
It also means policies that encourage education and health care. Moreover, we need to provide greater access to credit so that women can achieve greater economic independence. So, learning and labour are key factors.
The third “L” is leadership that enables women to rise and fulfil their innate abilities and talents. Here, there is plenty of room for improvement. The irony is that when women lead they tend to do as good a job as others, if not a better job. They are more likely to make decisions based on consensus-building, inclusion, compassion and with a focus on long-term sustainability. It is true that women sometimes lack the confidence to match their competence. But they need to change that mindset and reset the narrative in their favour. So it is essential that women be ready to “dare the difference” — to take risks and step outside their comfort zones. Nonetheless, even those with the drive to succeed continue to face barriers: whether we are talking about providing primary education for girls in a village, or executive positions for women in business. It is time to create a world where all women can meet their potential without impediment or prejudice and the world will reap the benefits. The three Ls will help us get there.
If we dare the difference, the difference will deliver. Thank you very much.
Think and Write
1. The Role of Educated Empowered Women in Building a Strong Nation
When women are educated and empowered, they become strong pillars of society. Education gives women knowledge, confidence, and skills to make important decisions. When women know their rights, they can stand up against injustice and contribute to their communities. Empowered women can work in different fields like medicine, education, business, and technology, helping their country grow. They also raise educated children, shaping future generations. Women play a big role in solving problems and bringing positive change. A nation grows stronger when women are treated equally and given opportunities to succeed. When women lead, they bring new ideas and solve problems with kindness and understanding. A country cannot progress if half its population is left behind. By ensuring education and empowerment for women, we build a fair and successful nation where everyone contributes to growth and harmony.
2. The Role of Learning, Labour, and Leadership Skills in Making a Woman Liberated
A woman becomes truly free when she has knowledge, skills, and confidence. Learning opens doors to new opportunities, giving her the ability to think, grow, and make independent choices. Education teaches women about the world and their rights, helping them gain respect. Labour, or hard work, makes women financially independent. When a woman earns, she does not have to rely on others for survival. This gives her freedom to make her own decisions. Leadership skills help women take charge and guide others. Women with leadership qualities can inspire others and bring positive changes in society. A liberated woman is one who controls her life, thinks freely, and makes choices that are best for her future. Learning, labour, and leadership together make women strong, independent, and capable of achieving their dreams. When women have these three qualities, they can shape their own destiny and contribute to a better world.
3. “Women Should Step Outside Their Comfort Zones.” Discuss.
Many women are taught to live safely within limits set by society. However, true growth happens when they step outside their comfort zones. Trying new things and facing challenges help women discover their strength. When a woman takes risks, she learns valuable lessons and gains confidence. She realizes she is capable of more than she believed. Society sometimes discourages women from dreaming big or exploring careers in science, politics, and business. But when women step forward, they show the world their abilities. Comfort zones feel safe, but they can also stop progress. Women should not fear change; instead, they should embrace new experiences and grow. Traveling, learning new skills, and taking on leadership roles can help women move forward. The world benefits when women push boundaries and break barriers. Courage and determination help women achieve success beyond limits, proving that they are strong and capable.
4. “Women Sometimes Lack Confidence to Match Their Competence.” Comment on the Statement.
Many women have great skills and knowledge, but they often doubt themselves. Even when they are talented, they may feel unsure about their abilities. Society sometimes tells women that they are not good enough, making them lose confidence. Women hesitate to speak up, lead, or take opportunities because they fear failure. They compare themselves to others and feel they are not smart or capable enough. However, women need to believe in their strengths. When women recognize their talents, they can achieve great things. Encouragement from family, education, and role models can help women overcome self-doubt. Women should remind themselves that they are competent and can do anything if they try. Confidence comes when women trust themselves and take bold steps forward. When women learn to match their abilities with self-belief, they shine in every field and become powerful forces of change.
5. How Can We Build Self-Confidence in Women?
Building self-confidence in women is important for their growth and success. First, education helps women gain knowledge, making them feel strong and capable. When women learn new skills, they feel more confident in their abilities. Second, encouragement from family and friends is important. When people support women and believe in them, they feel motivated to achieve their dreams. Third, role models inspire confidence. Seeing successful women in different fields teaches young girls that they too can succeed. Fourth, women must take risks and face challenges. The more they try new things, the stronger they become. Lastly, self-belief is key. Women should remind themselves of their strengths and focus on their achievements. When women support each other, they grow together and make society better. Confidence comes from learning, practice, and encouragement, and every woman deserves to feel strong and fearless.
Phrasal Verbs
- Be among: To be part of a group or surrounded by others.
- Blocked from: Prevented from doing something.
- Lag behind: To fall behind others in progress or development.
- Open the door to: To allow something new to start; to create an opportunity.
- Break the shackles of: To free oneself from restrictions (used figuratively).
- Get stuck in: To become trapped in an unwanted situation.
- Bring in (as in bring an increase): To cause to happen or introduce (here, an economic result).
- Step outside (one’s comfort zone): To do something new or challenging.
- Dare the difference: To boldly choose a different path or approach.
- Reset the narrative: To change the way a story or idea is commonly presented.
- Face barriers: To encounter obstacles.
- Reap the benefits: To get the rewards of one’s actions.
Writing Tasks
Speech 1: Imagine you are an Indian woman and now your country’s new finance minister. Prepare your first speech in the parliament.
Honourable Speaker and Esteemed Members of Parliament,
Today, I stand before you not just as India’s Finance Minister, but as a proud daughter of this nation—a nation that has given me the strength to dream, the courage to act, and the platform to serve.
This is a historic moment. For the first time, a woman from an ordinary background rises to present the financial vision of a country that aspires to be extraordinary. I accept this responsibility with humility and with a clear mission: to build a stronger, fairer, and more inclusive India.
Our economic vision rests on three core values—growth, equity, and opportunity. We will focus on uplifting the poor through direct benefit schemes, improving rural infrastructure, and expanding employment opportunities. Education, skill development, and support for startups will be prioritised to unlock the potential of our youth.
Special focus will be given to empowering women—through easier access to credit, support for women-led enterprises, and policies that ensure equal pay for equal work. Economic freedom must belong to all.
We are committed to fiscal responsibility, job creation, and green growth. Through transparent governance and digital innovation, we will bring India closer to becoming a $5 trillion economy that works for every citizen.
Let us build a future where progress is not measured by profit alone, but by the well-being of our people.
Together, let us rise. Together, let us build.
Jai Hind. Jai Bharat.
Speech 2: Home is not really a comfort zone for a woman.
Good morning, everyone.
We often hear that home is the safest place for a woman. It is where she belongs, where she is loved, and where she finds peace. But is this always true? For many women, home is not a comfort zone. Instead, it can be a place of restrictions, sacrifices, and struggles.
Many women spend their whole lives taking care of others. They cook, clean, and care for their families, often forgetting about themselves. Society tells them that their main role is to be a good daughter, a good wife, and a good mother. But what about their dreams? What about their happiness? A woman should have the freedom to choose her path.
Some women feel trapped at home because they are not allowed to work, study, or make decisions for themselves. They are told that their place is inside the house, while men go out to earn money and succeed. This thinking must change. Women have talents, ideas, and ambitions. They must be encouraged to step outside, learn new things, and build their own futures.
Even inside their homes, some women face difficulties. They are not always treated with respect. Some experience sadness, loneliness, or even violence. A home should be a place of love and support, not fear and limitations.
A strong society is one where women feel safe, free, and valued. A woman’s life should not be restricted to her home. She should have the right to explore, to lead, and to achieve her goals. Let us support women in finding their strength, stepping out with confidence, and creating the lives they truly deserve.
Thank you.
An Appreciation
Write an appreciation for the speech The 3Ls of Empowerment by modifying the the title as “Thrills of Empowerment.”
The speech titled “Trills of Empowerment” is a powerful and thought-provoking call to action, highlighting the vital economic role of women in the 21st century. Delivered with clarity and conviction, the speaker addresses the pressing issue of gender inequality in economic participation and proposes a practical and inspiring solution—the “3 Ls” of women’s empowerment: Learning, Labour, and Leadership.
The speech begins with warmth and inclusivity, drawing in the audience with the comforting phrase “among friends and kindred spirits.” It then transitions into a serious discussion of global challenges, effectively using statistics and examples to show the high cost of excluding women from full participation in the economy. The African adage, “If you educate a girl, you train a village,” is especially poignant and underlines the transformative power of education.
Each of the three Ls is explored with depth. Learning is shown as the foundation of change; Labour as the means for economic independence; and Leadership as the goal for true empowerment. The speaker not only identifies problems—such as unequal pay and legal discrimination—but also suggests concrete policies and cultural shifts needed to break these barriers.
The speech ends on a motivational note with the powerful line: “If we dare the difference, the difference will deliver.” It’s a message of hope, courage, and vision.
Overall, Trills of Empowerment is a stirring call for equality, reminding us that when women rise, the world rises with them.
Conversation
- You: Hello, Ms. Lagarde. I liked your speech about women’s power and chances.
- Christine Lagarde: Thank you! It’s very important that women have equal chances to learn and work.
- You: Why is learning so important for women?
- Christine Lagarde: Learning helps women know more and do more. It’s the first step to a better life.
- You: But even with education, many women don’t get good jobs. Why?
- Christine Lagarde: Sometimes, there are unfair rules or old ideas that stop women. We need to change those and give women fair pay and jobs.
- You: How can women become leaders if they don’t feel confident?
- Christine Lagarde: Confidence comes with practice and support. Women should try new things and believe in themselves.
- You: Do you think things are changing fast enough?
- Christine Lagarde: Some progress is happening, but we need to move faster. Everyone must work together.
- You: What can young people do to help?
- Christine Lagarde: Young people should support their sisters, friends, and classmates. They can also speak up for equal rights.
- You: What is the most important message you want to share?
- Christine Lagarde: Believe in yourself and help others to do the same. Together, we can make a big difference.
