In Day 2 of the 7 Things My Mother Gave Me series for International Women’s Day, I reflect on another Jamaican proverb my mother often used while I was growing up: “Han wash han mek dem clean.” When hands wash each other, they both become clean.

This simple saying carries a powerful reminder that none of us moves through life entirely on our own. Progress, opportunity, and growth often happen through the ways we support and uplift one another.

Sometimes giving means sharing knowledge, opening doors, or creating space for others to move forward.

In this reflection, I explore how the wisdom behind this proverb connects to the theme of Give to Gain — and how the strength of our networks and relationships is often shaped by what we are willing to give to others.

Because when we help one another rise, everyone benefits.