The day we carried the Olympic Torch for women and girls

Co-authored by Thaiza Vitória, 15-year-old Brazilian handball player and member of the 'One Win Leads to Another' programme in Rio de Janeiro and UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. Both of them carried the Olympic Torch on the day of the opening ceremony of the Rio Games.

At first glance, we may seem worlds apart; two women from different countries and different generations. We met for the first time under the Olympic flame, and discovered that we are not that different: we share the burning hope of a world where gender equality is not a luxury, but the norm. When we walked side by side, sharing the great honour of carrying the Olympic Torch through the streets of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, we represented more than just ourselves. We were there representing all women and girls - half the world's population.

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