New Year Resolutions; A Fresh Start For Malawian Women And Girls

As the new year unfolds, everyone is once again reflecting on where they have been and where they want to go. For the Malawian Girls Rock community, New Year’s resolutions are not about perfection or unrealistic expectations, but about growth, courage and choosing oneself in a society that often limits women’s voices and opportunities.

Malawian women carry many responsibilities. From young girls navigating school and identity, to women balancing work, family and community roles, the pressure to always be strong can be really overwhelming. This is why one powerful resolution many women are embracing is prioritizing self-care. Resting without guilt, protecting mental health and choosing healthier routines are revolutionary acts in a culture where women are taught to endure silently. Self-care is not weakness rather survival.

Economic empowerment also remains a critical resolution for many women and girls. Whether it is starting a small business, learning a new skill, saving money or exploring opportunities in digital spaces, Malawian women are determined to break cycles of dependency. Financial independence gives women choices which include the choice to leave unsafe situations, to support their dreams and to invest in their futures.

Not forgetting education and personal development as it also stands at the heart of women’s resolutions. Despite challenges such as early marriages, limited access to resources and social expectations, many girls and women are choosing to return to school, pursue short courses or educate themselves through reading and online learning. It is well known that knowledge is power and every step taken toward learning is an act of resistance against systems designed to hold women back.

For the Malawian Girls Rock audience, emotional healing and self-confidence are just as important as visible achievements. Many women are entering the new year determined to unlearn silence, set boundaries and speak up in places like classrooms, workplaces, homes and creative spaces. I remember how I felt after speaking up at some gathering where I had to share my concerns on how I was being looked down as a female creative and luckily I was heard. Choosing confidence, authenticity and self-expression is a bold resolution in itself.

New Year’s resolutions do not have to be loud or public. They can be quiet decisions made daily to keep going, to heal and to dream again. As Malawian Girls Rock continues to amplify women’s voices and stories, this new year is a reminder that growth is not linear, and progress looks different for every woman. One step at a time, Malawian women are rising as well as rocking on their own terms.