What does feminism mean?

I stand waiting at the station, the sounds of the trains are unmistakable, but they disappear when I see my reflection in one of them. I focus. There I am, on a warm summer day, with my hijab blowing slightly in the train wind. The platform is busy, passengers are hurrying around. I look around, to my right there is a group of laughing girls. They are wearing dresses, shorts, tight tops, but it doesn't bother me. Why should it? They look great. One of them caught me looking at her. Her smile disappeared and she suddenly looked annoyed. ''Hey, look at that covered little mouse over there, you can never voluntarily dress like that,'' I heard her say in a rather snippy tone. I turn away and ask myself: How is feminism defined anyway? 

For me, feminism means being free. Being free in every form and imagination. It's about self-determination. Being free to decide what I do and how I do it, because I am me and you are you and that is a wonderful thing. Feminism means solidarity. Supporting each other in our decisions without giving off the slightest hint of prejudice. 

But feminism is so much more. 

While in the early 20th century feminism was defined by the pursuit of political equality, particularly women's suffrage, today it is more diverse and inclusive. It is much more about one's own rights and cultural diversity, but also about promoting activism through social media. 

Feminism does not remain static but is continually evolving in the face of change to respond to changing social, political and cultural contexts. 

Feminism is the beating heartbeat that raises the voices of women and all genders to fight the inequalities, prejudices and discrimination that unfortunately still exist in our world. 

It is the pursuit of a world in which we humans can enjoy equal opportunities, rights and freedoms, regardless of gender. 

Doesn't that sound wonderful?

It is a call for solidarity, for change and, above all, for the realisation of a world in which the strength and uniqueness of every human being should be celebrated. 

The good news is that any of us can be. We can all play a part in this by simply beginning to show more acceptance towards others. It's about developing a deeper understanding. Self-reflection is also an important topic. Start to question your prejudices and especially your privileges and try to overcome them. 

We can only make the world a better place if we work together to create positive change, whether through small acts of compassion in our everyday lives or through larger efforts to create a more just world.