Whatever your political persuasion, one thing this week is sure young Scottish girls have been sent a clear message that no job is beyond their reach.
The appointment of Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister of our country is a signal to inspire girls to be all they can be.
The male-dominated world of party politics has changed. Here in Scotland we have two female party leaders Nicola heading the SNP party and the Government and Ruth Davidson fronting the Conservative party.
Both women got there on their own merit, by hard work, a passion for politics and a determination to make a difference.
It’s a time for optimism. A time for girls to think what part do I want to play in changing the world around me?
Life is all about making choices, the right choices. But for too long the grey suit brigade of politics which I grew up with was male dominated.
Margaret Thatcher becoming Britain’s first female Prime Minister changed that to a certain extent but empowering women was never a big issue for her.
Nicola, though, has promised to “open the gate to greater opportunity for all women”.
Young girls growing up in cities, towns and villages around Scotland need to hear that message.
Sadly for too many teenagers, life is about getting through school without any ambition about what they want for their future or what they have to contribute to our world. Girls need clear goals.
A dead-end job, a boyfriend and a baby aren’t the only answer. I’m hoping today’s schoolgirls are inspired by the positive message that a determination to find your own path in life and to work hard to do well in it are both possible and fulfilling.
I have granddaughters aged four, three and one year old and the Scotland they will grow up in is very different from when I was young.
More opportunities and challenges, but also more difficulties and pressures.
It’s vital that girls know what matters, that they are taught to value themselves, to understand what they want and how they can achieve their individual hopes and ambitions.
Like any parent or grandparent, I hope they find the world a kind place and I hope they know they have something to offer in helping that process.
Ambition isn’t just about money, success and power it’s about playing your part in creating a better and fairer society. Self-worth, knowing who you are and under-standing all that you can be is the best possible starting point.
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