For me, this poem is about remembering to be proud of yourself, celebrating the wonderful things about being a woman, to be brave and to be unapologetically yourself.

The Sun of a Woman 

By Amaani  

They say “sit pretty”

Our femininity perceived as 

Smiling, soft and gentle 

Smothering the fire and strength 

Beneath the surface

 

They say “think before you speak”

Questioning our voice 

Conversations overpowered as we’re silenced

‘Mistakes’ held over our heads like storm clouds 

 

They say “we can do it better”

Stealing our chances to show 

Our colours and magic 

Opportunities robbed 

 

So we say “celebrate your mind”

Light your flame for all to see 

Enjoy the wonderfulness of your spirit 

Bare your scars like trophies 

 

So we say “be bold and shout”

What you feel, be brave and 

Let your rain tears fall and 

Bask in the freedom and sun of your voice 

 

So we say “snatch your moment”

Hold it tight to your chest and

Be proud, it’s yours

Let your power shine

 

Amaani’s explains the process of writing the poem:

Writing this poem allowed me to express my thoughts and feelings about what it feels to be a woman personally and in the context of our society. For me, this poem is about remembering to be proud of yourself, celebrating the wonderful things about being a woman, to be brave and to be unapologetically yourself. I am passionate about positive mental health advocacy as well as gender equality and women’s rights, so this was a great opportunity to create a fusion of the two.

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Hello, my name is Amaani and I’m an e-wellbeing ambassador. 

I’m currently a University Psychology Student and Mental Healthcare Assistant. I became an e-wellbeing ambassador to be able to share positivity surrounding mental health, to encourage and normalise the conversation about mental wellbeing in young people and to explore this through a creative platform.