Hello Belinda, <p>Your reflections on confidence and self-worth illuminate a significant societal issue, particularly among women of African descent. There's an interesting historical parallel to consider:</p> <p>In the early 20th century, African American women in the arts, like Zora Neale Hurston and Nella Larsen, challenged societal norms through their influential writings. </p> <p>This act of reclaiming space and identity mirrors what you advocate for today—owning one’s voice and rejecting the notion of playing small.✨ </p> <p>Moreover, recent studies show that women who assertively communicate their accomplishments are often perceived more positively. For instance, Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever highlighted this in their book, "Women Don’t Ask" (2003), arguing, </p> <p>that women must "negotiate for themselves" to overcome systemic barriers, a theme that resonates with your insight on self-advocacy. Your energy towards empowering others is contagious! Keep shining. 🌟</p>