Self-sovereign identity empowers individuals by giving them full control over their digital identities. Unlike traditional identity systems where third-party organizations (like governments or corporations) retain control over personal data, SSI allows individuals to manage their identity through cryptographic keys and decentralized networks. Users can selectively share their identity information with different entities according to their needs, enhancing privacy and minimizing data breaches. SSI is typically implemented using blockchain technology and it aims to reduce the dependency on intermediaries while providing a secure method for verification.