Editor Saffia shares five things she learned from editing the Late Summer issue

1. How ‘empowerment‘ can mean many different things

While I was putting together the page plan for the Late Summer issue, I realised we had a segment of very powerful writing about supporting girls and women. Aware that many women are struggling at the moment as the perceptions of society shift around us and we all seem to take on so much more responsibility, I talked to other contributors about an empowerment theme. The result was a fascinating collection of articles, reminding me how everyone finds empowerment in different ways…

What makes you feel empowered?

2. How to focus on ourselves

I think, as parents, we are all guilty of putting children and work first, and squeezing any time to look after ourselves, or our relationships, into the tiny gaps of time that are left. We all know the truth, that that’s not healthy, but it’s really difficult to change those habits. Kate Magic and Catherine Pawson’s articles in this issue really helped me reflect on how important it is to listen to our bodies and take that time to care for ourselves. I’ve now put exercising on my to-do list: that way it happens!

3. How to make cloth pads

I have been using reusable menstrual products since I researched them for a JUNO article in 2010. I’ve not yet made my own, but I love Rosemary Després’ article in this issue with step-by-step instructions, even upcycling fabric. That feels empowering.

4. How trailblazing the suffragettes were

I loved reading David Roberts’ book Suffragette: The Battle for Equality. He tells the full story so well, combining the detail and subtleties of the fight for universal suffrage. He also brings to life the people who were involved. Alongside his illustrations, this is a wonderful way to learn more about this period of empowerment for both women and men.

5. How brave we sometimes have to be just to survive

I found Jo Haycock’s photographic feature about the work of Newport Women’s Aid very powerful and emotive. Women tell their story about escaping domestic violence, and how they are learning to discover who they are, away from their abusive partners. With striking photographs of the Million Women Rise march in London, this is a feature to remind you of the collective power of our voices when we speak out.

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