The Daily Star is delighted to have recognised the contribution of seven truly awe-inspiring women, whose relentless determination earned them The Daily Star-IPDC Unsung Women Nation Builders Award 2018. Despite countless challenges, not only did these seven heroines overwhelmingly succeed in their individual endeavours, but they also did so by way of greatly benefitting others through their various humanitarian activities in the medical, educational and business sectors. We laud their extraordinary vision which will surely inspire many others to follow suit in the years to come and work towards the betterment of our nation.

Through their success, they have, moreover, once again brought to the forefront the incredible contribution of women in our society and their capacity to adapt and overcome all kinds of challenges through ingenuity and creativity. And this is something that everyone should take note of, as despite some progress, we are yet to see society as a whole fully appreciate the contribution of women in all sectors of our economy and, in some cases, be willing even to allow them to participate.

It is particularly because of this that the roles played by these women are so vital, as their achievement clearly shows such beliefs to be completely false and terribly misguided.

While we celebrate their triumph, however, we should also remember that there are countless more women whose tireless works have been the cornerstone of our success but are yet to be recognised. The government and the private sector should support such selfless endeavours of these women and encourage others to do the same.