International Women’s Day: 132 Years Is Too Long to Close the Gender Gap – Tuzzi

The Chief Light Bearer of Lightbulb Consults, Tuzzi Atuzie, has raised concerns over the slow pace of gender equality, warning that at this rate, it will take 132 years to close the global gender gap.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day, Tuzzi called for urgent action to address persistent disparities in pay, funding, and leadership opportunities for women.

She highlighted alarming statistics: a 20% global wage gap and only 10% of global funding reaching female-led startups, despite research showing that women-led businesses yield higher returns.

“These numbers expose the urgent need for real systemic change, exactly what ‘Accelerate Action’ demands this year,” she stated.

While symbolic gestures and awareness campaigns are important, Tuzzi argued that they are insufficient without measurable progress.

“Women don’t just need a seat at the table, we need to own the table, set the agenda, and create opportunities for others.”

Despite some progress, the gap between intention and execution in gender inclusion remains wide, with women still locked out of funding, leadership roles, and key decision-making spaces.

Tuzzi urged organizations and advocates to move beyond rhetoric and actively support women in both public and private spaces where critical decisions are made.

Three Immediate Actions to Drive Change:
Support women now—The best time to act is today.
Invest in women-led businesses—Funding shouldn’t be an afterthought.
Use your influence to open doors—Advocacy must translate into action.

Tuzzi emphasized that the world does not lack talented women, it lacks speed and commitment.

“Every year, we celebrate International Women’s Day with grand speeches, yet we still ask: Why are women paid less? Where is the action?

Women make up nearly half the world’s population, yet they earn 20% less on average. Only 10% of global funding reaches female-led startups.

At this pace, 132 years is too long. What will we tell our daughters?”

“We need more than policies; we need power shifts. Women don’t just need a seat at the table, we need to own the table, set the agenda, and create more seats.

Stop waiting for the ‘perfect’ time to support women. The time is now. Invest in women-led businesses, pay women what they deserve, and recognize that exposure won’t pay the bills. Use your influence to open doors for women.

The world does not lack talented women; we lack speed and commitment. Let’s end the cycle of praising women for doing more with less. If we’re serious about gender equity, we must move faster and be bolder.

Progress toward a gender-equitable future is a necessity, not a favor.”