International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

A Special Message from Vivian Ozoemena

Founder/CEO, LaBelle Consult Limited

Convener, Wompreneur Network Initiative (Domestic & International Chapters)

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Today, the world pauses to acknowledge a reality that should never exist—violence against women. At LaBelle Consult Limited and the Wompreneur Network Initiative, we stand in solidarity with every woman, man, girl, and boy who has ever carried the weight of harm, whether seen or unseen.

When people hear the word violence, many think first of physical attack. But violence wears many faces—some visible, others silent yet deeply wounding.

And today, we must speak not only to the world, but to ourselves.

Violence is not only what strikes the body—

It is also what injures the heart, destroys dignity, or diminishes another’s light.

Violence is:

1. A woman tearing down another woman with words rooted in jealousy.
2. Exploiting another woman’s weaknesses—or even her strength—for personal gain.
3. Stealing, sabotaging, or withholding opportunities out of envy or fear.
4. Refusing to celebrate another woman’s success.
5. Spreading lies, gossip, or slander that crushes confidence and reputation.
6. Knowing you can uplift someone and choosing not to.
7. Causing emotional wounds that linger long after the moment has passed.

These forms of violence are quiet, yet they can harm the spirit just as deeply as any physical blow. They can lead to emotional distress, isolation, and a loss of self-worth. And many suffer in silence.

But today, we choose a different path.

Today, we call on organizations, women-led institutions, global partners, and the United Nations to work with us as we confront all forms of violence—not just the physical, but the emotional, psychological, social, and systemic.

If we are to build a world free of violence against women, we must begin with our girls—teaching them love instead of hate, truth instead of falsehood, unity instead of rivalry.

We must raise boys who understand respect, empathy, and equality.

And we must work together… intentionally, boldly, and consistently.

Let us join forces to heal, to educate, and to restore.

Let us build communities where women uplift one another, where men and women stand together for justice, where every human being is valued, protected, and empowered.

Today, and every day, may we choose compassion.

May we choose truth.

May we choose peace.

And may we choose each other.

With love and commitment,

Vivian Ozoemena

CEO, LaBelle Consult Limited

Convener, Wompreneur Network Initiative (Domestic & International)