Women in male-dominated industries

Desiree GasesIncreasing gender diversity in traditionally male-dominated industries can be an effective means to address escalating challenges as well as facilitate and accelerate progress toward global sustainable development. Women are a major but often overlooked or even neglected source of talent.Amid growing advocacy movements for gender equality and diversity in Namibia and all around the globe, there is evidence demonstrating significant business, economic, and social benefits associated with increasing women’s participation.According to data collected by Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL) In 2021, we have reached a significant landmark, with nine in 10 businesses worldwide having at least one woman in their senior management teams. By comparison, in 2017 that figure stood at two-thirds, with only 66% of businesses having at least one female leader. That there has been a three-percentage-point improvement.The rate at which women are striving for everything they deserve is increasing every year. Male-dominated industries and occupations are particularly vulnerable to reinforcing masculine stereotypes that make it even more difficult for women to excel. Women face challenges working in male-dominated workplace cultures, like societal expectations and beliefs about women’s leadership abilities. Rochelle Neidel, a businesswoman in agriculture, says: “While there is so much risk in the business, there is also so much opportunity for great deals and great growth. The male-dominated industry is very locked off and it is very easy for men to say that the table is full, but it is important to create a space for yourself.”Jane Auala, a businesswoman in poultry farming, adds: “As much as there are so many people that one can learn from in our unique industries, because you learn as you go but it is so much harder to learn from men genuinely.”

Women in male-dominated industries

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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Women in male-dominated industries

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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