echo ‘Women, they have minds, and they have souls, as well as just hearts. And they’ve got ambition, and they’ve got talent, as well as just beauty. And I’m so sick of people saying that love is just all a woman is fit for.’ ~ Little Women, 2019
The well-known quote from Little Women (2019 film) truly spurred the hearts of millions of women worldwide, planting the seed of ambition and passion within them. Leading them to believe in their utmost capabilities and that they are entitled to harbour and pursue their dreams.
Are you a young woman in Malaysia with a passion or dream? Because it’s time to unleash your potential with the Kotex She Can Fund! The Kotex SheCan Fund is here to support 10 winners with up to RM100,000 in funding!
What’s it about?
- Kotex is committed to breaking down barriers and empowering women to pursue their dreams. Whether challenging stereotypes or pursuing a passion, this fund is the chance to make it happen.
Who can apply?
- Any female Malaysian aged 18–25 with a dream or idea that needs support can apply!
Pursuing a dream often requires more than just passion—realistically, ambitions are also supported by financial means. That’s where Kotex steps in, offering support on the journey toward realising visions. For those with dreams they’ve quietly nurtured or stories they feel compelled to share, the Kotex SheCan Fund provides an opportunity. While some may believe their dreams are meant to stay in their minds, what if there’s a real chance to bring them to life? The realisation of those ambitions may depend on the dedication and effort one is willing to invest.
For others, the challenge may be knowing where to begin. In that case, applying for the Kotex SheCan Fund could be the long-awaited first step. While taking that initial leap might seem daunting, it’s not as intimidating as it appears. The unfamiliar territory may feel like a space where judgement looms, but in truth, it’s filled with others who, just like you, are first-timers hoping to achieve their aspirations. As the saying goes, sometimes it’s about “taking the shot” or even “doing it for the plot” and seeing where that boldness leads.
Many women give up on their dreams because they feel inadequate about their abilities, allowing doubt to overshadow their potential. This self-doubt often pushes their dreams further away, creating a painful reality where bright, intelligent women begin to form negative thoughts about themselves. It’s heartbreaking to witness when they deserve to experience all the beauty life has to offer. It’s important to remember that they are worthy and strong, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with chasing the happiness they deserve.
Whether a student, an employee, or a mother, it can feel like time is constantly slipping through one’s fingers, leaving them breathless and stuck in a seemingly endless cycle. The question often arises—will there ever be a moment to pause and do something that truly brings joy? While time is inevitably a constraint and dreams require patience, there is no pressure to rush toward success. Even incorporating just 10 minutes a day to write down plans or do some research can make a difference. Every small step counts, and as long as they are moving toward happiness, joy will await them at the end of the journey.
Society silently possesses a sort of psychological conflict known as cognitive dissonance, whereby individuals refuse to accept facts or actions that create conflict with the beliefs and perceptions they withhold. As humans, we cling to familiarity and consistency, often fearing change. This fear is why many of us tend to overlook unjust social conventions, such as the inherent disadvantage women face in society, simply because we accept them as the norm. Unfortunately, only a handful of ‘heroes’ emerge—those courageous individuals willing to stand alone and challenge these deeply ingrained beliefs. Only when they take that stand do others follow, uniting for the cause. However, the limited number of leaders who are willing to take this initiative is troubling, as it reflects humanity’s fear of confronting societal stereotypes. The question we should all ask ourselves is: Is it really worth giving up on your ideas just because of fear? What many fail to realise is the power each of us holds—an individual’s voice and actions can impact the lives of billions of women around the world. All it takes is trust in oneself, the willingness to put in the effort, and the courage to dream.
An excellent example is Jurema Werneck, the co-founder of the non-profit organisation Criola, who received funding from the Global Fund for Women. Werneck, who grew up in poverty in Rio de Janeiro, founded Criola alongside a group of Afro-Brazilian women from diverse backgrounds. Their NGO was created with the mission of empowering Afro-Brazilian women to overcome the social struggles of racism and sexism, advocating for the rights of Black women. With financial backing from the Global Fund for Women, Criola has evolved into an organization with significant influence in Brazil, promoting values of justice, equity, and solidarity within the society.
It is impossible to deny that women still grapple with traditional stereotypes in today’s world. Many may feel lost or uncertain about the future, with a quiet voice inside telling them they are meant to build a legacy—while those around them dismiss their aspirations as mere dreams. Though this experience is widespread, it should not be normalised or accepted. This is precisely why Kotex is here, to help break down these barriers. With the support of Kotex and a community of trailblazing women, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. By applying for the Kotex She Can Fund, you will be welcomed into a group of passionate women who, like you, are unafraid to pursue their ambitions. So, what are you waiting for?
Convinced enough? Here’s how to apply!
- Scan the QR code on the poster or visit this link.
- Submit a creative video sharing your story, vision, and what you would do if you win.
- Submission Deadline: October 20, 2024.
Shortlisted participants will be invited to the official Kotex SheCan Fund event on October 29, 2024.
Interested but don’t know where to start? Get your ideas flowing and inspiration running with these videos by Shah, Nabila, and Aica! Join these fearless ladies in putting your best foot forward and taking the leap towards your dreams.
Why Apply?
- Stand a chance to win up to RM100,000.
- Join a community of trailblazing women.
- Make your dream a reality.
Apply today and let’s break barriers together!
Written by: Vanessa
Edited by: Tisyha
