Women in Command: The Future of Female Professionals in Brazil
A street survey reveals the growing acceptance of women in all professions, including the cockpit of an airplane.
In the segment 'Connecting Voices and Stories,' Livia Matos from Donas da Voz took to the streets of São Paulo to ask the public about women's capabilities in any career. The discussion ranged from female firefighters to airplane commanders, revealing a largely positive and encouraging view. Discover how society perceives female empowerment in the workforce and the breaking of old stereotypes.
In the vibrant streets of São Paulo, Donas da Voz, through its host Livia Matos, posed a provocative question: "Would you fly on a plane piloted by a woman?" This and other questions about the presence of women in historically male-dominated professions were the focus of the segment "Connecting Voices and Stories," aiming to understand public perception of female empowerment and capability in the job market.
Breaking Professional Barriers: What Society Thinks?
The first major question asked was: Can a woman pursue any career she wants? The majority's answer was a resounding "Yes, absolutely!" Many interviewees showed a progressive view, stating that women can be firefighters, police officers, airplane commanders, and anything else they desire.
Some key points highlighted:
- Attention and Empathy: Some interviewees mentioned that women are "much more attentive than men" and that certain professions "require an empathy" that they can offer.
- Equality of Opportunities: The idea was reinforced that "everyone should be equal, both men and women," and that if a woman wants something, "she must be valued the same way."
- Slow, But Continuous Progress: Some pointed out that women "should already be performing these roles," but that the process is "very slow" due to "very primitive relations" that still persist in society.
Women in the Cockpit: Confidence and Safety at High Altitudes
When the question became more specific – "Would you feel safe getting on a plane and seeing that the commander is a woman?" – the acceptance was almost unanimous and enthusiastic. Responses ranged from "Yes, I would!" to "Of course!" and "With great pleasure!".
- Positive Experiences: One person even shared the experience: "I've already been on a plane where the commander was a woman."
- Pride and Happiness: Many expressed feeling "very happy about it" and "extremely happy when I see it's a female pilot."
Although the overwhelming majority demonstrated confidence and support, one curious response highlighted how, even with acceptance, there's still room for comments that reinforce stereotypes, such as the "joke" about the pilot having resolved issues with her husband before flying. This shows that the journey towards full equality still faces subtle challenges, but the desire to see women thriving in all areas is clear.
Donas da Voz emphasizes that "we can have any place we want. We just have to want it." The Donas da Voz community aims to be a space of support, where women support each other to celebrate achievements, overcome challenges, and build the future they desire. May the sky be the limit for all women who dream of commanding, whether it's a plane or their own lives.