Sunday, March 8 is International Women’s Day and this year’s theme is “Make It Happen” to help remind people around the world that, 104 years since the first International Women’s Day, there is still work to be done.
But progress is happening. Take, for instance, the story of Barbara Beskind, a woman who went to work for the innovative design firm IDEO at the age of 90. You read that right: 9-0. Talk about making it happen! I read her story in this NPR article.
This story has stuck with me for two reasons. First: she’s still working at 90! Let’s face it, by the time you’re 90 you expect that you’ll have paid you dues and, if you’re still alive and healthy, you’ll be living it up! When I married a man 20 years older than me, I dreamed of retiring at 40 right along with him, but since he has no intention of ever retiring I now realize it’s not going to happen!
Secondly, I am seriously impressed with IDEO, the forward-thinking firm that made such a brilliant and strategic hire. Who could be better equipped to design for the target audience than the audience itself?!
This wonderful collaboration is making the world a more livable place for the aging and disabled. I hope this inspires other employers to think outside the box and look to those with the wisdom and experience. Why not enable them to remain engaged and live independently for as long as possible?
Are there women you know who are “Making It Happen”? Tell us about her in the comments or join us on Facebook and Twitter!
Happy International Women’s Day!
Posted by: Maria