All around the world, mothers play a powerful role in the lives of their children – providing care, support and love. No matter where you go, there’s nothing quite like a bond between a mother and child. Ensuring mothers everywhere have access to the healthcare, resources, knowledge and support they need to thrive will benefit their children, families and entire communities! Improving maternal health is a critical part of the Global Goals to create lasting, sustainable change. To celebrate mothers and the women who do so much to care for us, we've rounded up 15 photos to show the diverse experiences of motherhood across the globe. 

1. Bangladesh

 A mother in Bangladesh shares a smile with her daughter.

2. Tanzania

 This mother from Tanzania keeps her son close by while she tends to the fields.

3. Nepal

 A tender moment between a new mom and her newborn.

4. Myanmar

 48-year-old Daw Khin and her son, Myo Zin, stroll through their lush farm in Myanmar.

5. Bangladesh

 Some quality mother-daughter time!

6. India

 Devkumari’s surrounded by love! Her daughters and children from their community in India have some fun by making silly faces.

7. Burkina Faso

 Grandmothers like 70-year-old Zarata get to shower their grandchildren with love! Zarata joins her granddaughter under a mosquito net in Burkina Faso.

8. Brazil

 In Brazil, Sara finds love and support in the arms of her mother.

9. Syria

 For many mothers, the safety of their children comes first. This Syrian mother has fled her home to provide her child with a safer and brighter future.

10. Uganda

 Winnie may not be Peninah’s biological mother, but she’s certainly the mother figure in Peninah’s life! Winnie has raised Peninah since early childhood, and loves her like a daughter.

11. Peru

 At this early childhood education centre in Peru, mothers learn about the importance of visual and cognitive stimulation for the healthy development of their children.

12. Sri Lanka

 In Sri Lanka, 3-year-old Nimsara’s mom is helping him learn to read.

13. Timor-Leste

 Lucinda and her daughter proudly stand in front of their newly constructed latrine in Timor-Leste. Lucinda’s children were often ill from diseases related to poor sanitation and contamination. Having a latrine means their family will have a clean and safe place “to go”!

14. South Sudan

 Displaced by violence in South Sudan, this mother was fortunately able to access the healthcare and support to safely give birth in this refugee camp.

15. Pakistan

 In Pakistan, this mom is showered with kisses from her two daughters!