On the global stage of skills, six Global Dream Ambassadors from around the world are illustrating the power and possibilities that skills offer women through their own personal journeys. To mark International Women’s Day, they are sharing their voices—encouraging more women to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams courageously, and break through boundaries to find value, strength, and extraordinary achievement in the world of skills.

Narmeen Almarzooqi, Global Dream Ambassador from the United Arab Emirates, firmly believes that when women uptake skills, societies grow stronger. “Keep learning, keep building, and always believing in your potential. I look forward to seeing your incredible talent at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai.”

Leyla Valiyeva from Azerbaijan didn’t have many women like her in her circle to seek advice from or simply look up to. “In my region, it [being a chef] wasn’t a popular career choice for a young woman, it felt like you had to work extra hard to prove that you deserve a place in the industry. “ She calls on women to trust in their potential, invest in their development, and never limit what they can achieve.

Rachel Crawford, Australia, admits to moments of self-doubt during her competition journey. But through persistence, discipline, and a deep passion for her skill, she stayed focused on her goals and continued to grow. She realized that she wasn’t just doing it for herself, she was doing it for everyone who believed in her, supported her and helped her get to where she is today.

Jingyi Lu from China wishes women around the world to keep being dedicated to their skills and pursuing their dreams. She believes that skills belong to everyone who is passionate and willing to commit. It is this passion and perseverance that have enabled her to continually push her limits and ultimately stand at the top of the WorldSkills podium.

Nurit Davidovich has a message for all women: your dream can become your professional reality. All these skills are very important in the world and it doesn’t matter what you want to do. If you want to do it, it can become your reality.

Shweta Ratanpura from India expresses her gratitude for the support of her parents throughout her education. She also recognizes that this is not the reality for many young women across the world. They are not always allowed to pursue opportunities even when they are capable. Sometimes the biggest barrier is not ability but freedom. To young women everywhere, she offers this encouragement: Don’t be afraid to choose a skill-based path even if it feels different or unconventional.

By transforming the support they once received into a force for giving back, these women are showing the world that skills can change individual destinies and open up new possibilities for every woman. Let the light of skills illuminate every pursuit of excellence and empower every generation of women to shine on their own stage.