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Breaking Barriers. By Falilat Oreoluwa Dikko
For centuries, the narrative of certain professions has been like an impenetrable fortress, where women were seen as strangers at the gate. But as the saying goes, “What a man can do, a woman can do—and sometimes even better.” Today, women are not just knocking on those doors; they are kicking them wide open, proving their mettle in fields traditionally dominated by men.
From scaling the heights of skyscrapers as architects to navigating the labyrinth of global politics, women are rewriting the rules of engagement. They are not only breaking the glass ceiling but are building bridges for others to cross.
Trailblazers Lighting the Way
Consider the remarkable Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organisation. She has shown the world that brains, not brawn, rule the day in the corridors of power. Likewise, Olajumoke Adenowo, a Nigerian architect often referred to as the “Starchitect,” demonstrates that the strength of a woman lies not in her muscles but in her mind.
In industries like engineering and technology—domains once described as “no place for a lady”—women are now the pacesetters. The likes of Dr. Omobola Johnson, Nigeria’s former Minister of Communication Technology, have turned sceptics into believers. As the Yoruba proverb says, “Two heads are better than one. With women in these fields, societies gain perspectives that enrich and enhance progress.
It is said that smooth seas never made skilled sailors, and for these women, the journey to success has been anything but smooth. Societal expectations often act like shackles on their feet, while workplace biases loom like dark clouds. Yet, they persevere.
Many have faced the condescension of colleagues who believe women are too “soft” for leadership roles. But as an Igbo adage wisely puts it, “An old woman who survives a battle knows how to carry a child on her back”. In other words, experience and resilience are powerful weapons, and women have them in spades.
A bird cannot fly with one wing, and a society that sidelines women only cheats itself of half its potential. The onus is on all of us—men, women, and institutions—to create environments where women can soar. This includes mentorship schemes, equitable workplace policies, and a shift in mindsets that still view certain professions as “a man’s world.”
Young girls must be encouraged to dream without limits, whether their ambitions lead them to the courtroom, the boardroom, or even outer space. Parents, teachers, and community leaders must fan the flames of curiosity in these budding minds. After all, “a child who aspires to greatness must first climb a mountain”.
Every time a woman ascends to the top of a male-dominated field, she becomes a torchbearer for those who follow. Her success is not just her own; it echoes through communities and across generations. For example, the rise of women in tech has inspired initiatives like She Code Africa, empowering thousands of young girls with coding skills.
When women succeed, society benefits. Research shows that organisations with diverse leadership outperform their competitors. As another proverb reminds us, “When the moon shines, it lights up the whole village.” The brilliance of women in leadership illuminates the path for everyone.
The road to equality may be long, but it is not without milestones worth celebrating. As more women rise to the challenge, they leave behind footprints for others to follow. Let us cheer them on, for their victory is a collective triumph.
Indeed, the future is bright, not because the path is without hurdles, but because women are proving, time and again, that no mountain is too high, no ocean too deep, and no barrier too strong to hold them back.
Falilat Oreoluwa Dikko, a feminist/ public affairs analyst writes from Lagos Nigeria
Email address
Kehindedikko@gmail.com
Tel- 07034484445
