On #IWD2023 I want to focus on some of the women who have shaped me and made me who I am today.
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First is my mum, Emily Johnston. She was without doubt one of the strongest, most resilient, and most straight-talking people I have ever known. She is my #Sheroe
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🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633590858460147715
Second are my mum-in-law and sister-in-law, my adopted family, and my best friends since I was a teenager.
They are my closest confidantes and my staunchest allies.
I love them with all my heart: they are brave, funny and loyal and have supported me throughout my adult life.
🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633607398165291009
Third, the matriarchy of amazing women who raised me. Their lives were not easy, but they persevered, and they raised strong women. If you know, you know. 😍
No single photo can capture them all, but my Aunt Minnie (RHS) was strong, gentle, and a surrogate grandmother to me.
🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633607408151830530
Fourth are the women who, through school and Guiding, taught me the value of integrity and the meaning of friendship
: something I owe to @ggulster and @BloomCollegiate, where I formed my most lasting friendships and forged my values.
School and guide friends last x
🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633607413793267755
Fifth, are the women I studied and worked with as a Civil Engineer, women who challenged the status quo and made it possible for others to achieve.
🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633607416607588356
And last but by no means least, the women I have worked with and continue to work with day-by-day. They are my strength, my inspiration and I am filled with admiration for all they do each day, as activists, councillors, MLAs and staff.
#HappyInternationalWomensDay2023
🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/naomi_long/status/1633607431904194566