Construction has always been perceived as a traditionally male-dominated industry, especially here in the Philippines. However, more and more women are breaking boundaries and making it big in the world of construction.
For Commercial and Contracts Head Zarah Izee Indidaño, as a young female engineer who’s barely 5ft-tall, she always feared not being able to manage to stand and survive in a man’s world. But she took the leap of faith and shares that: “Looking back, I’m grateful for those disparate circumstances, countless challenges, and triumphs. It made me who I am today.”
At Vision, she is proud to have grown with a group of strong, intelligent women working with diverse people and breaking the stereotypes. Working with and collaborating with talented and skillful people, saying that: “…having around with such amazing personas in a dynamic and challenging environment, I can think of myself that I am amazing too, right?”
In advocating for more women in the industry, Izee thinks that the industry can attract more female candidates by increasing publicity and awareness. And goes on to say that “…many people have a preconceived idea about what it’s like to work within the construction industry, and some of these ideas may deter women from applying for construction roles as it’s such a male-dominated industry. For example, women might be unaware of the opportunities available to them. We need help to bust some of the myths around construction work by educating the wider public about the wide range of roles in the industry.”
Her advice to young women interested in pursuing a career in construction: “Bloom where you planted”. Construction is a vast and dynamic world. When times get tough, rather than quitting, appreciate the present and accept changes and setbacks. Look for opportunities where you can – take risks, make connections, work your hardest, and make the most of each day. Try to be a positive force from one day to the next. And ends with “Who knows, it will lead you to your breakthrough in the industry- to the reality of your ideal.”
For whatever reason it may be, whether challenging a decades-old norm of construction being a “man’s world”, or simply following their dreams, Vision aims to highlight the extraordinary roles of the women of Vision and how they are trailblazers and advocates of change, this Women’s Month - how they are #WomenWithVision.
Interested to #WorkWithVision? Check out our Careers Page for more information.