International Women’s Day: Women leaders urged to empower others

Aesthetic Physician Dr Arshni Malde of Tia Clinics in Nairobi at work with one of her patient/HANDOUT

Women in leadership must strive to be resilient and empower others, the founder of Tia Clinics Dr Ashini Malde has urged as the world marked International Women's Day 2026.

Speaking as the global celebration highlighted the achievements and challenges facing women, Malde said the annual event serves as an important reminder of the transformative role women continue to play in shaping societies and industries.

Malde noted that every year, International Women’s Day reminds the world of the power of women to shape industries, communities and the future.

“Women can lead, innovate, build, and disrupt industries while simultaneously creating systems that empower others,” she said.

She added that for many women, entrepreneurship is often framed as a balance between ambition and societal expectations, particularly in sectors historically dominated by men.

Building a medical enterprise as a woman in a highly competitive and traditionally male-dominated business environment, she said, is rarely simple.

“It requires resilience, vision, and the courage to lead differently,” Malde said.

This year’s celebration carries a special significance for the clinic she founded, as the institution marks six years since its establishment on the same date.

“This year, the International Women’s Day celebration carries even deeper meaning for Tia Clinics, because its six-year anniversary falls on the very same day. It is more than coincidence. It is a reflection of the journey behind the clinic itself,” she said.

Malde explained that her vision for the clinic went beyond establishing another healthcare facility. Instead, she sought to challenge traditional models of treatment by introducing more forward-looking approaches.

Malde’s goal, she said, was far more ambitious; to challenge outdated models of healthcare and introduce a future driven by regenerative medicine, prevention and innovation.

“Empowering women is not just a social goal, it is a health, economic and development imperative. When women are educated, supported and given leadership opportunities, families become healthier, communities become stronger and nations move forward,” she said.

She noted that when she started the clinic, many modern medical treatments widely available in other parts of the world had yet to reach Africa.

At the time, she saw both an opportunity and a responsibility to expand access to advanced care and professional training within the region.

“As a doctor, I see every day how empowering women transforms lives. When women have access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, they do not only uplift themselves — they uplift entire communities,” Malde said.

Celebrated annually on March 8, International Women’s Day recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while also drawing attention to the challenges they continue to face.