When Maya Angelou said, “I am Woman, Phenomenally, Phenomenal Woman, that’s me,” ― she summarized the strength of every woman who dares to do. Such strong, free and educated women are indeed the greatest pillar upholding society at large. In fact, they have over the years, shattered barriers, inspired change, and redefined leadership and their words continue to ignite courage, resilience, and ambition in generations to come. Today, Team SheAtWork has the privilege of sharing the views of one such woman of strength – Dr. Sulochana Segera. A true asset to her nation, she serves as Chairperson of Women in Management. She is one of Sri Lanka’s most distinguished social entrepreneurs, seasoned trainer, motivational speaker and podcaster.
Here, Dr. Segera shares with us Sri Lanka’s perspective on women in leadership roles, the birth of ‘Women in Management’ and glimpses of her impactful work. From facing challenges personally to starting an organization where ‘women can be women’, Dr. Segera does not shy away from speaking the naked truth. Delve into this relatable conversation to know about how women have risen above biases and prejudices to stand tall where they are today.
Ques. In most parts of the world there is still an under-representation of women in leadership positions across the corporate world – is that true about Sri Lanka too?
Ans. Unfortunately, that is just the case in Sri Lanka as well. Our population comprises of 52.6% women, 56% women voters, 70% women in universities, yet Sri Lanka witnesses less than 5% women representation in boardrooms and less than 20% women in leadership roles. Now what needs to be assessed is that if women themselves want to be in leadership positions or not and if the system is allowing them to move ahead to assume leadership positions.
Again, Sri Lanka has a more ageing population and hence women have more roles to play- the responsibilities and work baggage is huge. Caregiving is a continuous process and an organized system of child care facility/elder care facility is not in place. This pushes women to take a back seat in their professional aspirations and gradually give in to complacency. Also, there is not enough policy support to uplift women professionally in private/public sectors in Sri Lanka. Additionally, the lack of mentorship is a glaring gap in the path of progress for women.
Ques. What inspired you to create ‘Women in Management’? What kind of work do you do through it and how impactful are these efforts?
Ans. I had a very comfortable life and everything was provided for me. However, when the world pushes you into a box, drawing boundaries for you, you feel the need to break free. The same happened for me – at a young age, my personal life collapsed – only to begin afresh. Suddenly I understood that the true meaning of women empowerment was not simply being ‘the lady’ of the house. This inspired me to form an organization where women could be women, could be recognised for their abilities – and be respected for it! Hence, ‘Women in Management’ was born – a professional organisation, where women can showcase their abilities, skills and services and earn a profit. It took me an entire year to get ‘Women in Management’ registered. Following this, I also started a single mother support unit but I was warned by policy makers as according to them, this is not abide by our nation’s ‘culture’!
However, I went ahead anyway and today we recognise the efforts of women who have broken the glass ceiling, recognise women entrepreneurs who have achieved commendable feats, recognise women in all walks of life. We also empower single mothers and give scholarship to children and run a free kitchen which provides food to many children.
Ques. At any given point of your career journey, did you face biases and prejudices because you are a woman?
Ans. Yes indeed! If as a woman you do not have a male partner or colleague backing you at the work place, or if you are not married, you do not get the respect you deserve. Again, if a man stands alone to work towards a goal, he is stamped as ‘brave’, but a woman who dares to do, is stamped are ‘arrogant’. These prejudices, though baseless, are a reality for women in general. What is the worst is that while men keep trying to put women down, some women too join them in their crusade to put down women striving to achieve.
Ques. What is that single biggest advice you would give a young woman ready to embark on her career journey?
Ans. My advice would be, if you aren’t offered a seat at the table, take a stool and sit next to them – make a place for yourself anyways! Let your work speak about your abilities and skill, and keep yourself upskilled. Never be afraid of apologising and asking for help.
Avtar Madan
Poonam Sinha
Ruby Sinha
