I am Sundus Khalil, currently working as an industrial engineer in a labor-intensive manufacturing company within a male-dominated community. In my role, I interact and collaborate with male counterparts daily, handling tasks that range from managing workers on the production floor to engaging with upper management at Vision Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd, Pakistan.
Before I embarked on the Fairtrade Gender Leadership journey, I had no access to mentors who could advocate for my career growth, which made navigating my professional path even more challenging. As I worked to promote gender diversity in my field, I encountered resistance rooted in assumptions that women are less capable of handling physically demanding tasks.
Additionally, balancing work and family responsibilities became a significant challenge, as I am the primary caregiver for my family.
Facing Gender Challenges
I had to overcome personal obstacles to step into a leadership role. But the most difficult challenge came from within. I was plagued with self-doubt. Being one of the few women in the workplace, I sometimes felt isolated and pressured to represent all women, fearing that any mistake I made would reflect poorly on my gender as a whole.
Finding Motivation and Joining the Fairtrade Gender Leadership Training
I was determined to add value to my organization by breaking stereotypes in my field and inspiring other women to contribute to community development. To achieve this, I realized I needed comprehensive training on gender rights, communication, and leadership skills.The Fairtrade Gender Leadership Training Program offered me valuable insights into gender roles, labour rights, women’s rights, and gender-based violence. Through group activities and discussions, I also gained essential skills in communication, negotiation, and leadership, which became instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
The Gender Leadership Training Experience
The Fairtrade Gender Leadership Training opened my eyes to systemic inequalities and unconscious biases that existed in society as a whole. The training covered a range of topics from gender equality, labour rights, and leadership development, to communication and negotiation. The group activities and discussions gave me the tools I needed to grow as a leader. Over three rounds of training, spread over nearly two years, I developed critical skills like financial management and project management.
More importantly, the training gave me the confidence to step into leadership roles with authority, to believe in my abilities, and to realize the importance of advocating for inclusivity and equity in my workplace and community.
Stepping into Leadership and Driving Change
After completing the training, I was appointed as the Gender Focal Point for my organization. My responsibilities now included integrating gender considerations into all aspects of our work, from policy development to program planning. This position allowed me to drive meaningful change within my organization.
I initiated several programs to promote gender equality, including replication of Gender training at organisation level, managing a Day Care Centre and a Technical Skills Development Centre for women, organizing International Women’s Day celebrations, and leading knowledge-sharing sessions on gender rights. My work extended beyond my organization when I represented Pakistan at the 1st International Youth Conference in Indonesia, where I spoke about climate change’s impact on Pakistan and contributed to the Fairtrade youth strategy formation.
I was also honored to be nominated by Fairtrade NAPP as a panelist for an event organized by SCCI on International Women’s Day 2024, where I spoke on the theme “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Transition of Women into the Workforce Post-Higher Education.” This platform allowed me to share insights on the barriers women face and the importance of fostering inclusive work environments.
I also had the opportunity to participate in Fairtrade NAPP’s Gender Strategy Consultation, where I contributed to shaping gender policies and strategies at the organizational level, ensuring that women’s voices and perspectives are represented and valued.
Impact on the Organization and Community
The initiatives I’ve led have transformed our organization. Women are now more actively involved in decision-making processes and hold leadership positions. Many of the women I’ve trained have moved into higher roles within the organization, and they’re now mentoring others, creating a ripple effect of empowerment.
In the wider community, the changes have been just as profound. Women are now more aware of their rights and the crucial role they play in the economy. Their newfound skills and employment opportunities have resulted in increased income and improved living standards. The community as a whole has started to shift its perception of gender roles, thanks to the increased visibility of women in leadership.
Reflection and Lessons Learned
Looking back, the gender leadership training helped me recognize my own unconscious biases and taught me the importance of fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. I am more confident now, more empathetic, and a stronger leader. I’ve learned that the most meaningful change happens when diverse voices are heard, and I’m committed to ensuring that this continues in my workplace and community.
Advice to Other Women Leaders
To other women aspiring to leadership roles, I would say this: trust yourself. Believe in your vision, and never let self-doubt hold you back. Stay committed to your goals and remember that you are capable of creating meaningful change.
Fairtrade NAPP’s Role in My Journey
Fairtrade NAPP has played an invaluable role in my journey. The training and opportunities they provided gave me the skills and confidence to grow. They offered me platforms to share my experiences at national and international levels, such as being a panelist on International Women’s Day 2024. They’ve also connected me with other leaders, helping me build a strong support network.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue leading community development campaigns, focusing on Sustainable Development Goals within my organization. I believe we can build a future where gender equality is no longer a goal but a reality.
In the end, this journey has taught me that change is possible, and I’m proud to be a part of that change.
Sundus’s story is just one of many examples of how Fairtrade NAPP’s initiatives are making a lasting impact on individuals, organizations, and communities. By fostering leadership, promoting gender equality, and providing platforms for women to excel, we are working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Sundus’s determination to continue championing these causes within her organization and beyond is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when women are given the tools and opportunities to lead. As we move forward, we remain committed to supporting more women like Sundus in their journeys toward leadership and community empowerment.
