Why We Invest in Women

“If you educate a man, you educate an individual. But if you educate a woman, you educate a family.”

On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate the power of women—how their resilience, leadership, and determination transform not just their own lives but entire communities.

But here’s the reality:

Women Are More Likely to Experience Extreme Poverty

Across the world, women are more likely to live in extreme poverty than men, facing systemic barriers that keep them from reaching their full potential.

• Education is out of reach for many. Girls are more likely than boys to be pulled from school due to household responsibilities, early marriage, or cultural expectations. The result? Lost potential. When girls miss out on 12 years of education, it costs the global economy $15 to $30 trillion in lifetime earnings.
• Income opportunities are limited. In 100 countries, laws still prevent women from working in certain jobs. Even when women do work, they are paid less than men—earning, on average, only 80 cents to every dollar earned by men.

Women Face Greater Risks

Poverty isn’t just about income—it’s about vulnerability. And women in extreme poverty face risks that many men do not.

• Violence is a constant threat. Women in poverty are more likely to experience intimate partner violence and gender-based violence—both of which limit their ability to work, thrive, and live safely.
• Trafficking preys on the vulnerable. Women account for the majority of those trafficked for sexual exploitation, a crime that thrives on economic desperation.
• Maternal health is at risk. Women in poverty often lack access to essential healthcare, increasing the likelihood of complications in pregnancy and childbirth—sometimes with fatal consequences.

Women Are Key to Ending Extreme Poverty

Despite these challenges, when women have access to education, jobs, and resources, they drive extraordinary change.

• Women invest in their families. Studies show that women are more likely than men to reinvest their income in healthcare, education, and nutrition—lifting entire households out of poverty.
• Women create opportunities for others. Female entrepreneurs are more likely to hire and mentor other women, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment.
• Gender equality drives economic growth. If every country progressed toward gender equality at the same rate as the fastest-improving nation, global GDP could increase by up to $12 trillion annually.

Our Commitment to Women

At One Day’s Wages, we believe investing in women is one of the most effective ways to break the cycle of poverty. That’s why we partner with grassroots organizations—often led by women—leaders who understand their communities and are creating real, lasting change.

Today, in honor of International Women’s Day, we invite you to listen to our conversation with Awah Francisca Mbuli, Founder and Executive Director of our partner, Survivors’ Network Cameroon. She’ll be sharing her insights on women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and the power of investing in other women.