‘The waters are rising, but so am I; I am not going under, but over.' These words are attributed to co-founder of The Salvation Army, Catherine Booth, in her final days. For Catherine, ‘the waters’ was likely a reference to her battle with an aggressive illness. But what can the determined spirit in her words inspire in us today?

The value of women and girls is continually undermined. The Salvation Army believes that both male and female are made in the image of God and are equal in value and therefore is opposed to sexism. We reject any view that subordinates women to men, or men to women. Within the context of gender justice, these ‘rising waters’ represent systemic oppression, covert mistreatment and lack of equity. But the battle is not won! Even as the waters of injustice rise, we see women on the rise, too. Find out more about Women's Ministries commitment to social justice: Battle Cry.

Each story in this exhibition shares something of the greater story of womanhood, resilience and overcoming difficulty with faith and determination. Each story tells how a woman within the Salvation Army’s story has risen up against all odds. As long as there is need, we will continue to raise our battle cry: the waters are rising, but so are we. We are not going under, but over!

Hover or click on the portraits to read inspiring stories and testimonies from women across the world.