WOMEN today undoubtedly lead better lives, thanks to social and economic empowerment, with far greater opportunities offered to them than the generations before.
Growing up, I had few role models and the television (TV) became my window to the world.
Seeing female newsreaders and TV talk show host Oprah Winfrey left a lasting impression on me.
At a time where it was rare to see women leaders, here she was with her own talk show.
Years later, I became the first female from both sides of my family to attend university.
However, without a clear role model, my journey was often one of trial and error.
Today, I am a mother of two and I have worked in the media industry for more than two-and-a-half decades.
Last year, I graduated with a Master’s degree.
My 82-year-old father was truly proud of me as it reflected his success in raising his daughter well.
Over the years, I have seen opportunities for women expand across almost every sector.
However, the support systems for working mothers remain inadequate.
A friend recently shared her experience of returning to work after taking a three-year break to care for her three young children.
During job interviews, she was often asked who would care for her children if she was hired and whether she planned to have more.
Eventually, she chose not to disclose that she had children.
She has since been hired and has progressed to lead a department in the engineering sector.
We both agreed that male candidates are rarely asked these questions, with employers focusing instead on what they bring to the table.
When I attended the 11th Global Investigative Journalism Conference in Hamburg, Germany in 2019, I was asked whether I required daycare support for my children.
I was surprised that my children’s well-being was taken into account.
Although I had not brought them along, I was encouraged by the offer.
With International Women’s Day being celebrated tomorrow, we need to give attention to how working mothers juggle their responsibilities between career and family.
There needs to be a shift in mindset, along with stronger support systems and initiatives that support family well- being so that working mothers can realise their full potential.
After all, women make up half of the world’s population.
It is only right that the world becomes a more supportive place for us in every aspect.
More initiatives that support family well-being must be introduced if we are serious about unlocking the full potential of women.
