The Power of a Woman's Voice:
Owning Your Strength
By Dr. Brittany Deane
LINKAGE Q1 (2025) - ACCELERATE ACTION
“I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard… We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” — Malala Yousafzai
I
remember having a patient whom I educated on the importance of recognising her symptoms—especially how heart attack symptoms can present differently in women compared to men. Not long after, she experienced chest pain and shortness of breath and went to the hospital, only to have her symptoms dismissed as anxiety. Because she had been informed, she was able to advocate for herself and insist on a second opinion. It turned out she was actually having a heart attack. That moment reinforced for me just how powerful using our voices can be—not just in speaking up for ourselves, but in ensuring that we receive the care and attention we deserve.
It has often been said that a woman’s voice is her power—a power that can transform lives, communities, and even history. Yet today, some of us are still confined by the labels society has placed on us, urging us to be quiet—to be agreeable, accommodating, and cautious. However, when we begin to realise that using our voices is not just about personal success but also about paving the way for others, we understand that our words have the power to create lasting change and shape a future where everyone has the opportunity to be heard and valued.
I have seen this truth reflected in every aspect of my life. Like many other women, I have the privilege of wearing several different hats, ranging from my work as a doctor and media personality, to my involvement in pageantry and as a fitness athlete and even serving as the VP of an NGO. Each of these roles is unique in its own regard and each poses its own challenges and opportunities, however, I’ve found that there’s one common factor that spans all of them, the necessity of using my voice to communicate effectively, confidently and authentically. 
It’s important to recognise that when we talk about using our ‘voice,’ we’re not just referring to our ability to speak but to the profound impact our words can have on others’ lives and the outcomes they produce. I’ve witnessed firsthand how a woman’s ability to advocate for her own health can mean the difference between receiving the right care or being dismissed, and how sharing knowledge can empower others to take charge of their well-being.
We women are leaders, caregivers, professionals, advocates—and in every role, our voices matter. When we speak up, we don’t just spark change, but we also encourage others to step out of their comfort zones, taking risks that can ultimately lead to meaningful progress.
Why Speaking Up Matters
Speaking up is powerful because it’s how we ensure our voices are heard, our concerns addressed, and the issues that matter to us are brought to light. For women, using our voices is especially important because it helps challenge the status quo, allows us to advocate for our health and rights, and ensures that we demand equal opportunities.
But this isn’t just about women—when anyone uses their voice to speak up, they create space for change. Whether it’s standing up for yourself, speaking on behalf of others, or simply sharing your truth, it’s through these acts that we are able to drive progress, spark action, and hold ourselves and society accountable. Using your voice to speak up is not only a way to advocate for what’s right but it also becomes a call for others to do the same. It inspires courage, fosters solidarity, and creates a ripple effect that can transform lives. By speaking up, we empower ourselves to step into our full potential and lead the charge toward a future where our voices are valued and respected—no matter who we are.
Finding Confidence in Your Voice
Finding confidence in your voice starts with believing that you belong in every room you enter. It’s in understanding that no matter where you are, your presence is valuable, and your voice deserves to be heard. We often think that being confident is synonymous with being the boldest or even the loudest at times, but true confidence is built from taking a leap of faith, using your voice to speak from a place of truth and understanding that your words carry weight. When you own your space and your voice, you can communicate with clarity and purpose.
At an international pageant, I noticed many contestants struggling with anxiety, stress, and homesickness. As a doctor, I knew the importance of mental health, so I took a leap of faith and asked the organisers to host a mental health forum. They agreed, and I had the opportunity to lead a seminar that became a deeply emotional and transformative experience. Many contestants opened up, found support, and even shed tears of relief and joy. That moment reinforced the power of my voice—advocating for something meaningful not only created a space for healing but also made the entire pageant experience more fulfilling for everyone.
For women, it’s important to recognise that speaking up is not just about advocating for yourself but also about lifting others. When you speak with confidence, you pave the way for other women to do the same. Empowering other women by listening, supporting, and encouraging them to share their voices strengthens our collective power. We rise by lifting each other up, and when we amplify each other’s voices, we create a network of support and change.
Remember, your voice matters, and your experiences are valid. Don’t shy away from sharing your ideas, even if they challenge the norm. The more you speak up, the more you will believe in your ability to make a difference. Confidence is a practice, and with each step, you’ll become more assured in the power of your voice.
Your Voice is Your Power
We each have a voice, and it is one of the most powerful tools we possess. It is how we assert our place in the world, challenge injustices and drive meaningful change. When we speak up, we shift conversations, reshape perspectives and create a space for those who have yet to find their own voices. When we choose to advocate for ourselves or others, we reinforce the idea that our voices are not just welcomed but necessary and should be trusted, valued and respected.
It is also pertinent to remember that the power in one’s voice is not only in the words that are spoken but in how we use those words to uplift those around us. When we support and amplify one another, when we become a voice for the voiceless, we create a momentum that carries beyond our individual success, and we turn towards a collective progress. A world where we empower one another is one where opportunities grow, barriers fall faster and voices that were once silenced now echo with strength.
So, let this be a reminder: your voice is your power, your strength, your legacy. Never be afraid to use it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Brittany Deane is a distinguished medical professional, media personality, and elite athlete whose career spans medicine, fitness, broadcasting, and pageantry. She holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the University of the West Indies and is dedicated to advancing public health through education, advocacy, and patient-centered care.
As the host of The Lunchtime Doctor on Freedom 106.5 FM, Dr. Deane leverages her medical expertise to provide insightful, evidence-based discussions on critical health topics. Her ability to communicate complex medical concepts in an engaging and accessible manner has established her as a trusted voice in health education.