In anticipation of International Women's Day, a photo exhibition showcasing women in Uzbekistan who have defied stereotypes and prejudices of their time was held at the Central Exhibition Hall. The exhibit featured archival photographs of pioneering women as well as portraits of contemporary women, all part of the local brand market Teplo.
The exhibition honored 17 bright, talented, and successful women in Uzbekistan whose words and actions are positively impacting society. The event was organized by Charos Kamalova, who expressed admiration for these women and hoped that they would inspire guests to listen to themselves, overcome challenges, and pursue their passions.
The display began with archival photos of women who were the first in their professions, including journalist Sobira Kholdarov, train driver Bashorat Mirbabaeva, doctor Zulfia Umidova, and documentarian/actress Nelya Ataullaeva. Their stories were detailed in an article by "Gazeta.uz" titled "Trailblazing Women in the History of Uzbekistan," published on March 8, 2023.
Among the contemporary women were the founder of the shelter "Rahmdillik" Bibisor Ariipova, singer Munozhat Yulchieva, art historian Natalya Musina, director Saodat Ismailova, gymnast Oksana Chusovitina, founder of Nemolchi.uz Irina Matvienko, architect Takhmina Turdialieva, and others.
These women recorded audio messages for exhibition visitors, discussing fear, stereotypes, and the need to break free from imposed dogmas. They emphasized that freedom requires patience and strength, comes with mistakes, but is undoubtedly worth the sense of fulfillment that a woman achieves by following her desires and, more importantly, her self-care. The components of self-care may evolve, and the journey of seeking and finding these fragments will continue throughout life. Embracing this path is a choice that every woman should make.
