The level of confidence women are able to build in women-only
Hear, O daughters of the earth and stars, the words of Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to journey beyond the skies: “The level of confidence women are able to build in women-only groups is important.” In this saying, she names a secret strength: that when women gather together, free from the weight of judgment and the shadow of expectation, they discover within themselves a courage long buried.
For in mixed company, too often, the voices of women are interrupted, their ideas dismissed, their presence made smaller by the structures of power. But in spaces where only women dwell, the mask falls away, and truth rises unbroken. There, in the safety of sisterhood, confidence grows like fire upon dry wood, sparking boldness that can later be carried into the wider world. Such groups are not refuges of weakness but forges of strength.
History bears witness. Consider the consciousness-raising circles of the 1960s and 1970s, where women gathered in living rooms to speak aloud the struggles of their daily lives. In those circles, they discovered that what they thought were private sorrows—harassment, unequal pay, domestic confinement—were in fact shared injustices. From these gatherings was born the second wave of feminism, proving Jemison’s wisdom: confidence built in women-only spaces becomes the foundation for movements that change the world.
So too in ancient times: the women of Sparta trained together, running, wrestling, and learning strength in one another’s company. Unlike their sisters in other Greek cities, they grew bold and free, confident in body and spirit. This confidence made them renowned throughout Greece, their voices strong even in matters of state. Their example is a living echo of Jemison’s truth.
Therefore, let this wisdom endure: the building of confidence is not a small thing, but the root of liberation. Women-only groups are not divisions, but sanctuaries where power is cultivated, where courage is kindled, where voices are strengthened for the battles beyond. Mae Jemison, who herself shattered barriers among the stars, reminds us that empowerment begins not in the great arenas of the world, but in the sacred gathering of women who believe in one another.
TBQuan Nguyen thi bich
Mae Jemison’s observation about women-only groups and confidence-building is a reminder of how important it is for women to have a space where they can be unapologetically themselves. But I also think about how these spaces can evolve to support women in overcoming external challenges. How can we ensure that the confidence women gain in these groups is not just internal but also external, empowering them to take on leadership roles in diverse, mixed-gender environments?
NCThi ngot Cao
I agree with Mae Jemison’s point that confidence-building in women-only groups is crucial, especially in fields where women are underrepresented. But I wonder, is there enough recognition of the importance of mentorship and support within these groups? How can women’s groups also ensure that the confidence gained translates into real-world action, such as pursuing leadership positions or advocating for change in areas where women are still marginalized?
TThao
Jemison’s insight into women-only groups highlights an important aspect of confidence-building. These groups can provide a unique opportunity for women to connect, share experiences, and overcome challenges together. However, is there a risk of creating an echo chamber where the confidence built might not fully prepare women for mixed environments? How can we make sure that women feel equally confident to tackle diverse challenges, both within and outside these spaces?
NNThi Ngoc Nhi Nguyen
Mae Jemison’s idea that women-only groups help build confidence makes me think about how these environments allow women to thrive without the pressure of being judged by gender stereotypes. But what happens when these women-only groups are not available? How can society ensure that all women, no matter their circumstances, can find the support and empowerment they need to develop confidence and self-belief in any environment?
VKVyy Khnhh
I find Mae Jemison’s comment on the importance of women-only groups to be an insightful reflection on how women often need spaces where they can freely express themselves. But does this mean that women need these spaces in order to feel confident? Or could the same level of empowerment be achieved in more inclusive, mixed-gender environments? How do we strike the balance between creating supportive women-only spaces and promoting broader, diverse collaborations?