In a world that often tells young women to shrink, to doubt themselves, or to fit into predefined roles, empowerment is not just a luxury—it is a necessity. True empowerment comes from recognizing our worth, embracing our individuality, and using our voices to make a difference. This is the heart of R.A.T.S: Revolutionary Army of Teens, We Are One (out June 5, 2025), a novel that embodies the strength, resilience, and unity of young people, especially young women, who refuse to be silenced.
From the beginning, I knew that R.A.T.S needed to feature strong female characters who break barriers—not just through physical strength, but through courage, intellect, and compassion. Empowerment is not about being the loudest in the room; it is about standing firm in our beliefs, lifting others up, and daring to make a change even when the odds are against us. The young women in my book come from different backgrounds, but they share a common truth: they are capable of greatness, and together, they are unstoppable.
The Power of Unity
One of the most powerful lessons I want to share through R.A.T.S is that true strength does not come from standing alone, but from standing together. The slogan “We Are One” is a reminder that when we support each other—regardless of background, religion, or circumstance—we become a force that cannot be ignored. Young women today face immense challenges, but they also have an incredible opportunity to rewrite the narrative of what it means to be powerful.
Society has often placed unnecessary competition between women, but empowerment flourishes when we lift each other up instead of tearing each other down. Every girl deserves to know that her dreams are valid, her voice matters, and her strength is limitless. Whether in literature, real life, or movements around the world, when women unite, they create revolutions.
Courage to Challenge the Norm
The characters in R.A.T.S do not accept the world as it is—they challenge it. They step out of their comfort zones, confront injustice, and take action for the greater good. This is the kind of courage I hope to inspire in young women today.
It takes bravery to speak up in a world that often discourages boldness, but history has shown us that change only happens when people refuse to remain silent. Whether it is standing up for a friend, advocating for what is right, or daring to chase a dream that seems impossible, every act of courage matters. Empowerment is not about never being afraid—it is about acting despite fear.
The Strength Within
Too often, young women are told to seek validation from external sources—whether through social media, relationships, or societal expectations. But real empowerment comes from within. It is in the moments of self-doubt when we choose to believe in ourselves anyway. It is in the quiet acts of kindness, the determination to rise after failure, and the resilience to keep going no matter how hard the journey gets.
In R.A.T.S, each character discovers their own unique strengths, proving that empowerment does not look the same for everyone. Some lead, some support, some strategize, and some heal—but all of them are powerful in their own way. The same is true in real life. Young women do not have to fit into a single mold to be strong; their strength comes from embracing who they truly are.
A Call to Action
To every young woman reading this: You are more powerful than you realize. Your voice matters, your dreams are worth pursuing, and your presence in this world is not by accident.
Empowerment is not about waiting for permission—it is about stepping forward, taking action, and lifting others along the way. Whether through stories like R.A.T.S or through everyday choices, we have the power to shape a future where young women everywhere recognize their limitless potential.
Despite our different colors, religions, and homelands, if we stand together, support each other, and collaborate, we are truly one. Life has its seasons—times of struggle, times of growth, and times of joy—but when we open our hearts, act with faith, and extend a helping hand, we create a world where everyone can thrive. Nothing happens by chance; everything unfolds at the right time according to God’s divine plan. But to reap a better future, we must plant the seeds today—with kindness, unity, and courage.
Because when we rise together, guided by faith and love, we reflect the light of God in this world.
So stand tall. Support your sisters. And never forget: We Are One.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Spanning timelines from ancient Atlantis to a near-future world, “R.A.T.S: Revolutionary Army of Teens: We Are One” (Pegasus Publishing, June 5, 2025) explores climate catastrophe activism and the power of unity, love and respect in the face of global challenges. In 2040, 15-year-old David discovers that he and his friends are Earth’s final defense against extraterrestrial forces determined to steal Earth’s water. Through an alternate reality game, R.A.T.S, created by his grandfather HB, David and his allies undergo training and unite across the globe. As they prepare for an apocalyptic battle, they unravel hidden truths about the universe and their own destinies—while battling environmental collapse and a relentless alien invasion.
Claudia Daher is a Brazilian-born author who is based in Aruba for the past 34 years. As a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and entrepreneur, Claudia is deeply rooted in her family and community, embodying the values of love, unity, and perseverance. Her debut sci-fi novel blends her passion for storytelling with a powerful message about global unity, environmental challenges, and the power of the next generation. Through her writing and life, Claudia offers readers and audiences an inspiring, heartfelt journey of overcoming obstacles and embracing the beauty of human connection. You can connect with Claudia on Facebook and Instagram.