Women have, over the years, proved their mettle and become a part of growing industries all over the world. There are still some fields that are dominated by men, and have remained closed off to women. We talk to the ladies who dared to step into these professions, and have proved that they deserve to be there.
Speaking to Aashima Sharma, the General Manager of Park Hyatt, it is evident why she rose to the top in such a short span of time. She tells us, “I had never thought of a foray into the hospitality industry. I have always enjoyed conversations and any industry, especially hospitality, requires you to have a connect with people; they give me a sense of joy.”
She adds, “A woman needs to work harder to convince people, but if you are respectful and fair, people will start seeing you as a person and not just a woman. You should believe in yourself and trust that you are capable.”
Sweta Sutar, Chief Officer in the Merchant Navy tells us, “The initial days were difficult despite my passion for working in a field where there are not many women. People weren’t ready to accept women onboard and used to make disparaging remarks but after three months on the ship, my captain and chief officer told us that we were the most hardworking cadets they had ever sailed with. All I want to tell women is to be fearless and to work hard.”
The female bartender making waves across the city with her fantastic concoctions who goes by the name Chula Barmaid, also spoke to us, “Contrary to popular perception, being a woman opened doors to this profession. Being one of the first Latin American bartenders also got me respect from male colleagues. I still see some small differences in men and women here, but in South America, where I come from, these differences are in the past. Dare to be different and go find your dreams!”
