We often hear people talk about gender equality. We hear it in speeches, in the news and even on social media. Everyone wants equality - a world where men and women are treated the same. But have you ever stopped to think about what that really means? Because the truth is, what most people call equality is actually equity and there is a big difference.

Equality sounds good. It means giving everyone the same thing no matter who they are or what they need. Think about it this way: if you give everyone the same size of shoe, it doesn't mean everyone can wear it comfortably. Some will fit perfectly, some will be too tight and some will be too loose. That's equality - same treatment, different results. Now equity looks at things differently. It says, "let's give each person the size that fits them." It focuses on fairness, understanding that people have different strengths, needs and challenges.

Men and women are different and that's perfectly fine. Different strengths, different emotions, different ways of seeing life. None of these differences make one better than the other. Equity recognizes this difference and ensures both have what they need to succeed. It steps in to make sure everyone has the right support to thrive. It means women should be given fair chances at work, in education and in leadership without being judged by gender. It means men should be given space to express their emotions, seek help or take family roles without being mocked or called weak. It means both sides are respected for who they are, not forced into the same mold.

Gender equity is not a fight between men and women. It's not about competing, it's about completing. It doesn't erase our differences, it helps us use them in ways that make the world more balanced and better for everyone. So maybe, instead of always shouting “gender equality”, we should start promoting “gender equity”. Because fairness is not about being the same. It's about giving everyone a fair chance to shine in their own way.