Fueling Equality with Suman Ayub

Suman Ayub is a petrol filling operator at Pakistan State Oil (PSO) Pakistan’s largest energy company. She works at the station to contribute financially towards her household to ease the burden on her father, as well as her brother who is the only son of 7 siblings.

Suman started this job during the COVID-19 outbreak and has been working dedicatedly since. While sharing her impactful journey, she shared that at first her parents were hesitant about her working, but eventually, they gave her permission.

Watch Suman Ayub’s Impact Story Video Below:

Making Ends Meet Through Equality

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of women taking up roles in male-dominated industries in Pakistan. Changing times and economic pressures have compelled women to seek jobs.

Suman’s story is encouraging and inspirational.  More women are stepping out of their comfort zones and entering traditionally male-dominated fields. This shift is a significant step forward for gender equality and women’s economic empowerment in the country.

Many women like Suman Ayub have found employment at petrol pumps as attendants or managers. Suman is greatly appreciative that PSO has provided a safe environment for women to work with ease and flexibility. Since they interact publicly, any issues, including harassment can be reported to the management without hesitation. Their male co-workers are also very cooperative and provide guidance and support wherever required.

With their hard work and determination, the women are challenging gender stereotypes and proving that women can succeed in any field they choose.

While things are moving positively ahead,  there is still a need for more support and resources to be provided to women in various fields. This includes mentoring, training, and networking opportunities, as well as policies that promote equal opportunities and fair treatment for all workers.

The introduction of platforms such as the Women in Leadership Programme is giving women a chance to defy the odds and make their rightful place up the ladder. The programme equips young leaders with the skills needed to seize the day.

Women in Leadership Series: Navigating the Path to Equity & Success

WOW360 Impact Stories Series

Impact Stories is a series of videos for the Women in Leadership Programme to inspire and empower women leaders at all levels. This series will highlight women who have taken up the challenge to break barriers and challenge norms.

By highlighting these stories, we hope to empower future women leaders to pursue their journey to leave a powerful impact on the community, city, and the country overall.

Together, we can give women the platform they need and require to take the first step. Today, our Impact Series Video features the norm-shattering Suman Ayub.

Disclaimer

This article is produced in a strategic partnership with SEED Ventures for the British Council’s Women in Leadership (WIL) Programme based on the Clore Social Modules. 

It is a comprehensive training and development initiative aimed at empowering and equipping women to reach their full potential as leaders in their respective fields.

The WIL Programme was designed to address the ongoing issue of gender inequality in the workplace and at home and to provide women with the tools and skills necessary to succeed as leaders in a rapidly changing world.