Rebecca

What does life as a woman or girl look like in your country / city / town / village? Any issues / challenges / exciting milestones?

My experience as a woman is very different in South Korea to what it was in South Africa.

I've spent most of my life in South Africa, and it's one of the most dangerous countries in the world for women. Rape and murder are so common, and it's unheard of to drive or walk alone at night. We get used to living in a state of fear.

On the contrary, I can walk alone at night in South Korea. However, violence against women is under reported and not taken seriously here. I have to be careful when I go to the bathroom in public, as it's common to be filmed and for those videos to be uploaded. The patriarchy is still strong here, and women are seen as inferior to men. Feminism is laughed at, whereas it's taken more seriously in South Africa.

What would you like the world to know about YOU? What life experience, challenge or achievement do you want to share?

I've had to endure a lot in my life to get where I am today. I've been made to feel worthless by men for as long as I can remember. I'm so grateful that I took control of my own life a few years ago, and now I'm proud to be the woman that I am.

What are you most passionate about and what are you doing with that passion?

My biggest passion is baking. Right now, I'm planning to start my own bakery, and working towards this goal every day by conceptualizing recipes.

How have the women and girls around you helped you to get to where you are today?

My mother has been a huge influence in terms of being strong and having tremendous courage. My sisters have influenced me similarly and I am so grateful for them.

Describe yourself in one word: "I am...

Strong.

Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today, is to be..."

Resilient.