Female empowerment is a transformative force that breaks barriers, challenges stereotypes, and impacts the lives of many women. In Spain, several young women are leading the way with their stories of struggle and overcoming challenges. Below, we share real stories that show how courage and determination can change the world.

Overcoming Barriers The Story of Belén Lacoma Latorre

Belén Lacoma Latorre, a young Aragonese writer, found in literature a way to speak out and raise awareness. At just twenty years old, she won the short story contest “Young People with Much to Tell” with her work ” Behind the Scree,” which addresses gender-based violence and its emotional impact.

“Writing helped me understand that words are also a tool for change,” says Belén. Despite her youth, she has managed to convey profound messages that resonate with her generation. She also uses social media to share her thoughts and motivate other young people to express themselves and not be afraid to speak out.

Belén demonstrates that empowerment also involves creativity and the courage to confront social problems from an authentic and sincere perspective. “If you can imagine it, you can change it,” she asserts.

Adi Iglesias From Adversity to Success in Athletics

Born in Bamako, Mali, Adi Iglesias had to overcome unimaginable challenges from a very young age. Persecuted in her home country for her albinism, she came to Spain seeking refuge and safety. Her new life in Galicia wasn’t easy, but she found in athletics a refuge and a passion that would change her destiny.

Adi not only triumphed at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, winning gold in the 100 meters and silver in the 400 meters, but she also became an advocate for women’s and disability rights. “It doesn’t matter how many times you fall, what matters is how you get up,” she shares.

Today, she inspires thousands of people through talks and workshops promoting inclusion and the power of overcoming adversity. Her message to young women is clear: “True power lies in never giving up.”

Rural Women of Alava Sisterhood and Entrepreneurship in the Countryside

In rural areas, women face specific challenges: lack of visibility, limited job opportunities, and limited representation in decision-making spaces. However, the Rural Women’s Network of Álava demonstrates how sisterhood can break down these barriers.

Founded in 1999, this network has evolved to include young women, professionals, and entrepreneurs. They have worked to diversify employment options in the countryside, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating initiatives that strengthen the local economy.

“Our goal is for rural women to feel proud of their role and dare to dream big,” explains one of its members. Through workshops, conferences, and gatherings, this community continues to inspire many to transform their villages into spaces full of opportunities.

Voices in Ar MariaIa Guerra and Mariola Cubells

Art and culture are also powerful tools of empowerment, as demonstrated by María Guerra and Mariola Cubells with their show, “Ladies and Ladies .” Based on the book “Better Than Ever,” this play combines humor, literary reflections, and personal experiences to address themes such as feminism and the reinvention of women throughout their lives.

“We want to show that there’s no age limit for empowerment, for reinventing oneself, or for demanding a place in society,” says Mariola. Her show, which has toured several cities in Spain, connects with women of all ages, offering a hopeful and fun message.

These two journalists demonstrate that empowerment also lies in the art of telling stories that showcase women’s experiences from a fresh and authentic perspective.

The power is in us

The stories of Belén, Adi, the rural women of Álava, María, and Mariola are a reminder that female empowerment is built on diverse experiences. Each of these women has found her way to challenge norms and contribute to change in their field.

Empowerment begins with small decisions, with daring to dream, and with mutual support among women. Today, we invite you to reflect: What would you do if you weren’t afraid? Because change begins with you.