MOHW promotes Taiwan Girls’ Day

2014-10-09

2014 Taiwan Girls’ Day was launched by the Ministry of Health and Welfare Oct. 7 in Taipei City, underscoring government efforts to strengthen the rights of girls nationwide.

The day, celebrated Oct. 11, coincides with International Day of the Girl Child adopted by the U.N. three years ago. It is in line with the government’s commitment to creating a friendly environment for girls and pursuing gender equality.

Chien Hui-jiuan, director of the MOHW’s Social and Family Affairs Administration, said the measure will help girls shine in the society and better promote their rights.

During the launch, event attendees Chin Hsiao-jung, Feyannie Hung and Jenny Lee were praised by the MOHW as role models for girls seeking to live out their dreams.

Chin, a high school sophomore and Taiwan’s first gold medalist at the International Geography Olympiad, said the key to her success is self-belief. “I spent five years training for iGeo by reading extensively in my free time.”

Hung, a high school senior, said her goal is to introduce Taiwan to the world. “I became an exchange student in Canada at 15 and had to overcome cultural shock and various other challenges. But I persevered and successfully promoted my country by sharing Taiwan cuisine and giving out souvenirs.”

Lee, the first female professional triathlete in Taiwan, said she overcame paralysis down the left side of her body caused by a car accident at 17 to excel in her sport. “I trained like a Trojan and have won top honors at more than 100 competitions such as the Hawaii International Triathlon.”

According to Chien, the girls are outstanding examples of what can be achieved with the right encouragement and support. “We will leave no stone unturned in helping others follow in their footsteps and doing Taiwan proud,” she said.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=222652&CtNode=413)