Sonita Alizadeh is a powerful voice in contemporary feminism, representing the struggles and resilience of young women from the SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) region. As an Afghan rapper and activist, she bravely challenged the tradition of child marriage with her groundbreaking song "Brides for Sale," which resonated globally. Growing up under the Taliban’s oppressive regime, Sonita used her music to fight against the injustices faced by women in her community, defying cultural and legal restrictions that silenced many. Her journey from a bathroom cleaner in Iran to an internationally recognized advocate highlights the transformative power of education and self-expression. Sonita’s work not only brings attention to the plight of women in the SWANA region but also inspires young women worldwide to use their voices for change, making her a significant figure in the global feminist movement. Join us to learn in a matter of “minutes” why Sonita’s contributions are necessary for societal growth!

Lillian Gilbreth is a timeless inspiration for young women in STEM, having paved the way in a male-dominated field with her groundbreaking work in industrial engineering and ergonomics. Despite not having a formal engineering degree, she revolutionized workplace efficiency by focusing on the human element, introducing concepts like better lighting, ergonomic designs, and even the idea of coffee breaks. Her innovative approach to both industrial and domestic environments highlighted the importance of worker satisfaction and well-being. As the first woman elected to the National Academy of Engineering and a trailblazer in combining psychology with engineering, Gilbreth’s legacy continues to inspire future generations. Let’s discuss in a matter of minutes why Lillian Gilbreth is an inspiration for young women in STEM!

This episode of Feminist Minutes dives into the overlooked legacy of Mabel Addis, the first female video game designer. In the 1960s, while working as an elementary school teacher, IBM invited Addis to develop an educational game, resulting in The Sumerian Game. This pioneering project not only introduced storytelling and character-driven narratives into video gaming but also laid the foundation for the genre of edutainment. Despite her groundbreaking work, Addis’s contributions remained largely unrecognized until recently. In a matter of minutes, we explore how she brought history and innovation together, crafting a game that taught economic theory through the role-playing experiences of ancient Mesopotamia. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity and the impact of women in the gaming industry, inspiring future generations of game designers and storytellers.

Women need to be informed about PMS because it affects a significant portion of the female population, often beginning in adolescence and continuing throughout their reproductive years. Understanding PMS is crucial for recognizing and managing its physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to severe disruptions in daily life. Informed women are better equipped to seek appropriate medical care, make lifestyle adjustments, and advocate for their health. Additionally, awareness helps reduce the stigma surrounding PMS, fostering a more supportive environment where women can openly discuss their experiences. By being informed, women can take proactive steps to manage their symptoms, improve their well-being, and empower themselves and others to handle the challenges of PMS with greater resilience and understanding. Join us to learn in a matter of “minutes” why knowing knowledge of PMS is essential to mentally and physically stay healthy!