“The psyches and souls of women also have their own cycles and seasons of doing and solitude, running and staying, being involved and being removed, questing and resting, creating and incubating, being of the world and returning to the soul-place.”
- Clarissa Pinkola Estés, Women Who Run With the Wolves

In the words of Clarissa Pinkola Estés, women's lives are marked by cycles of activity and introspection, engagement and retreat. This profound insight resonates deeply with the essence of womanhood, celebrating its complexity and depth. As the world comes together to celebrate International Women's Day this month, it's a moment of profound reflection and gratitude for Iman Cheema, the Director of Vintage Works.

Founded by her mother, Rahat Cheema, in the 90s, Vintage Works stands as a testament to the resilience and empowerment of women.

"Women's day is very close to my heart," says Iman. "It’s crucial to honour women and their work in society, because their impact is profound."

Iman's journey with Vintage Works has been a transformative one, not just for herself, but for the women she and her mother have employed over the years. "In our office, we have hired young women from the local community in Daska. I can see how they’ve blossomed. They're realizing their full potential. It’s been very gratifying to witness this," she states earnestly.

Iman believes in the innate strength and dedication of women. "Women are exceptional decision-makers and dedicated employees. They’re very devoted in the workforce," she explains. This dedication not only benefits the company but also strengthens the self-belief of women, empowering them to achieve more.

"For me, it’s crucial to provide women with a safe and encouraging environment, where they can flourish and attain their full potential," says Iman. She credits the support of the women in her family, including her in-laws, husband, and children, for her own success. "As a wife and as a mother, I'm constantly trying to attain that balance in work and home life. But it’s the encouragement I have received and continue to receive from my family that has given me the confidence to grow by leaps and bounds in my career.”

Iman also recognizes the value of women who choose to focus on their roles as homemakers. "Some women I know, amazing women, don’t have careers but they’re extraordinary mothers and wives! One shouldn’t discount the effort – both physical and emotional – that it takes to be a homemaker," she emphasizes.

Iman's mother, Rahat Cheema, has been a guiding light in her life. "My mother has always been the person who has been giving with her time and love. It's part of her personality. I've seen her be generous and kind all my life," she says, reflecting on her mother's impact on her journey.

Rahat's own journey is a testament to the power of women supporting each other. "When you empower a woman, you empower her whole family, and hence an entire community. It's a domino effect," she says.

Iman echoes her mother's sentiments. "Women supporting other women is essential for progress. When we lift each other up, we create a ripple effect of empowerment that benefits everyone," she says.

The founder also understands the transformative impact that financial empowerment can have on women. By providing women with opportunities for economic independence, they are able to improve their own lives and those of their families.

"Financial empowerment is key to the emancipation of women. It gives them the freedom to make choices and control their own destinies," she explains.

As we commemorate International Women's Day this year, let us remember that by uplifting each other, we not only empower ourselves but also pave the way for a more inclusive and just world for all. This day serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience inherent in women, inspiring us to continue supporting one another in our journey towards equality and empowerment.

Together, we can create a future where every woman's voice is heard and every woman's potential is realized – today and every day.