PARADIGM-BREAKING: HOW TO MOVE FROM PLAN TO ACTION
Over the years we have seen with pleasure and pride, how the issue of inclusion has transcended one of the traditionally male sectors, I am referring to our beloved maritime-port sector. There have been many initiatives from different spheres: governmental, regulatory or private, among others, all focused on empowering women and recognizing their great contribution.
Many examples have been pointed out from different fields, where women have transcended circumstances that years ago were not so favorable, to set the guidelines for a new and promising future for the new generations.
However, there is still a long way to go. While it is true that in countries such as the Dominican Republic, there is already a ship with a 100% female crew, as well as port operators with a female participation of more than 10% in key areas, it is no less true that the effort to increase the female presence needs to continue promoting the issue from key pillars, such as education, working conditions and general policies, both internal and governmental.
The only resource that can lead to the next level in the incursion in sectors mostly dominated by men is education. It is necessary to establish educational offerings in the sector and for women to have access to it. But no less important, is to continue working on the values and self-esteem of the female sex, empowering girls and allowing them to explore non-traditional careers for the gender; as I have always mentioned, "raising warriors and not just princesses".
Likewise, statements of compliance from the private sphere must always be accompanied by favorable conditions for the female gender in complex work environments, such as docks and ships. Ensuring access to sanitary facilities in good conditions that meet due privacy, lactation rooms, family involvement programs, access to proper communication, among many other topics, which may seem simple, but for women represent important points when choosing and/or keeping a job.
All this must always go hand in hand with government policies focused on guaranteeing several factors: equal opportunities, equal conditions and efficient promotion of the sector together with the sector's associations and private companies.
Globally, there has been notable progress and efforts to promote the inclusion of women in the sector. Associations such as Red MAMLa help to promote existing opportunities and empower a gender that has been discriminated against for years.
Let's make a change in history together, we can all contribute a grain of sand, the foundations for a great future are ready, we just need to move from plan to action.