Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: A Cross-Generational Conversation on Gender Equality

Educational Journeys: Support Systems and Changing Landscapes

Yesutor's educational path was shaped significantly by growing up on a university campus where her father worked as a lecturer. "Living on the university campus where my father was a lecturer and attending the university's primary school shaped my early education," she explains. She developed a love for writing and performing arts, with many teachers recognizing and encouraging these passions. However, her parents inspired her most: "They have been my biggest motivators. Pursuing three graduate degrees might sound daunting, but their unwavering support and encouragement have kept me going."

While she didn't face direct gender barriers, she noted how gender affected educational tracks during her youth: "Technical schools were primarily for males while vocational schools were designated for females." She reflects, "Many of my teachers and my parents believed I had the potential to study science. However, I didn't want to pursue that path. This was during a time when more males than females were entering the field of science."

My experience: My educational journey, though different from Yesutor's, was also marked by subtle gender expectations. Growing up, I noticed that while both men and women were encouraged to attend school, there were clear, unspoken boundaries around career ambitions. Men were expected to become doctors, while women's aspirations were often limited to nursing roles. As a child, I struggled to understand this distinction, why couldn't women be doctors too? These implicit limitations confused and frustrated me, as they seemed arbitrary yet were treated as natural by much of society. This early recognition of gender-based career tracking sparked my interest in understanding and challenging these systemic barriers.

One of the most significant changes Yesutor has observed is the increasing presence of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. "Especially in the sciences and technical fields, I've noticed a significant increase in female participation. For example, there are more female carpenters, engineers, and other professionals in technical roles. Additionally, technical schools, which used to predominantly admit males, are now open to admitting females, unlike in the past."

Career Paths and Workplace Attitudes

Yesutor comes from a family where independent careers for women were not just accepted but expected. "I come from a family of industrious women, where having a career outside the home was considered very important," she shares. "Once I completed secondary school and throughout my university education, I worked during every vacation, building my resume and gaining valuable experiences for the future. There was never a dull moment." With 15 years in her industry, she attributes much of her success to family support: "My family, in particular, has been an unwavering source of encouragement and assistance throughout my journey."

However, she notes some persistent challenges: "In my field, much like education and nursing, women are more prevalent than men. Unfortunately, this has sometimes led to exploitation, with clients wanting to pay less for services in a female-dominated space. As a Speech-Language Therapist, I've also encountered situations where male clients prefer to speak with a male, even if the male is my subordinate or intern. This is especially common when dealing with individuals from religiously or traditionally patriarchal societies."

When asked about advancement opportunities, Yesutor states: "Yes, I believe that women in my profession have the same opportunities for advancement as men. We must continue to make our voices heard and advocate for our contributions and expertise."

We must continue to make our voices heard and advocate for our contributions and expertise

My experience: As a newlywed, I dreamed of becoming a movie producer, but quickly encountered different expectations for women in the industry. The film world struggled to accommodate the unique perspectives women bring, especially after I had my son. The expectation of balancing location shoots with family responsibilities was challenging. During my time at an advertising production agency, I often went an entire day without seeing my family. Eventually, I had to pivot my career path because maintaining a healthy work-life balance was essential to me. This experience illuminated how certain industries are still structured around traditionally male life patterns, with limited flexibility for those with caregiving responsibilities.

Family Dynamics and Cultural Influences

Perhaps most striking in Yesutor's story is her family's approach to gender roles. "I have always valued family as the most important unit of society, believing that as a family, you can create your own culture," she shares. Her maternal grandfather had five daughters and "ensured that all of them received an education to the highest level possible (depending on their ability), so they could be economically independent. He held them in high esteem and equipped them to compete equally with men."

She describes how her mother would take on traditionally masculine tasks: "Growing up, it was common to see my mum painting the house, mending doors, mixing cement to plaster scraped walls, and undertaking other hardcore technical home maintenance activities. My family has a culture of breaking stereotypes there is no such thing as a man's role or a woman's role in the family. We do what we are able and continually add to our skills, as it all serves to support the family."

When asked about pressure to prioritize family over career, she notes: "Not from my own family. I would say the pressure has come more from outsiders, but I do not let that bother me. My family has always been supportive of my personal and professional goals."

Regarding the evolution of gender roles, Yesutor observes: "Yes, I believe gender roles in family dynamics have evolved in society. Growing up, it was quite common to see mothers attending Parent-teacher meetings, taking their children to the hospital, and fathers driving the car. Today, these roles have changed in society." However, her own family defied these traditional patterns: "In my birth family, I witnessed my dad helping with chores and caring for us while my mom was away or busy with work. My mom drove us around, even though it was my dad's car, and my dad took us to the hospital more often than my mom, and helped us with homework because his schedule was more flexible."

My experience: My family structure differed significantly from Yesutor's. As the only girl with four brothers, traditional gender roles were clearly demarcated in our household. I often questioned these divisions and was sometimes labelled rebellious for doing so. This experience has directly informed my approach to parenting. Now, as a mother of two boys, I'm consciously teaching them a different perspective—one where capabilities and interests, not gender, determine roles and responsibilities. This represents a deliberate generational shift in how gender roles are understood and practised within my family.

As a mother of two boys, I'm consciously teaching them a different perspective—one where capabilities and interests, not gender, determine roles and responsibilities

Navigating Cultural Complexities

Yesutor offers a nuanced perspective on gender equality's evolution, particularly in the Ghanaian context: "Before colonialism, some African cultures were egalitarian in terms of gender. History indicates that white colonizers initially preferred to educate males, as they were reluctant to engage with black women, coming from a very patriarchal society themselves. This shift marked the beginning of changes in gender dynamics."

She continues, "In my lifetime, while gender equality may have improved for females, it is essential to acknowledge that the issue is multifaceted. For instance, considerations like income disparities, the number of toilets available for males versus females in public spaces, and maternity leave policies all play a role in shaping gender equality."

She also highlights cultural practices that impact gender equality: "Among the Ewe people, Trokosi is a form of slavery where young women (usually virgins) are chosen from a family to serve the gods as restitution for the sins of the family. However, some of these women voluntarily choose this path, so it cannot always be said to be detrimental, especially if it is a choice."

She adds, "In some families, there is a general preference to favour boys over girls when resources, especially for education, are lacking. The assumption is that the male will get established and support the rest of the family. I have been fortunate to come from families where males and females are treated equally, with many examples of equality in upbringing on both my mother's side and father's side."

My experience: In Nigeria, particularly in Osun state, we have a similar cultural practice where a virgin is selected to be the calabash carrier for the goddess of the river Osun. While this role is considered an honour within the community, it illustrates how cultural practices can place disproportionate pressure on girls regarding their sexuality. Young women must maintain their virginity to qualify for this prestigious position, while young men face no equivalent expectations or scrutiny. This disparity reflects broader societal patterns where women's bodies and behaviours are regulated much more strictly than men's, creating uneven standards for respectability and worth.

Challenges and Breaking Stereotypes

When asked about challenges faced as a woman, Yesutor shared an experience from her early career: "One of the biggest challenges I faced as a woman occurred when I worked as a manager intern at one of Ghana's biggest retail stores. After choosing to resign due to the exploitation of locals, including myself, a foreign male manager made a comment that 'this work was not for women.' He came from a very patriarchal society and was quite upset that I had been hired a young woman of just 23 years old."

She continues, "To overcome this challenge, I relied on my inner strength and the support of my family and mentors. I knew that such biased opinions did not define my capabilities or worth. I used this experience as motivation to prove my skills and competence in other opportunities that came my way."

Her hands-on approach to home improvement projects continues to surprise some: "When I pick up a hammer, saw, spanner, or drill for any home improvement project, artisans and professionals in these spaces marvel. However, it is becoming increasingly common these days to see younger ladies engaged in these activities."

Regarding involvement in gender equality movements, Yesutor notes: "Aside from directly mentoring females to be anything they put their minds to and facilitating their exposure to various fields of interest, I have not been involved in any formal movements to promote gender equality."

My experience: I identify as a "girly girl," embracing traditionally feminine interests and aesthetics and I believe that's perfectly valid. Similarly, when women gravitate toward traditionally masculine tasks, that should be equally respected. What matters isn't who performs a task, but that the work gets accomplished effectively. Rather than judging activities through a gendered lens, I advocate for focusing on competence and results. This perspective shifts the conversation from who "should" be doing what based on gender norms to celebrating diverse talents and interests regardless of gender identity.

Rather than judging activities through a gendered lens, I advocate for focusing on competence and results

A Balanced View of Gender Equality

What stands out in Yesutor's perspective is her holistic view of gender equality: "I find that discussions about gender equality often focus on women, sometimes at the expense of men. Growing up, there were campaigns to send the girl child to school, but over the years, we have seen boys fade into the shadows. No one seems to care if they drop out, and many young men put their lives on hold to care for their younger siblings. As a Sunday school teacher who taught Christian children for close to 15 years, I have seen more successful girls from my Sunday schools than boys, more girls willing to further their education, while boys often feel the need to find a good income quickly. At the end of the day, some boys are dissatisfied that their female peers are taking top positions and sometimes earning more."

She emphasizes: "To further support gender equality, we need to pay equal attention to both genders. Gender equality is a multifaceted concept that should not just focus on women. We must re-examine our approaches and ensure that both males and females receive the necessary support and opportunities to thrive. It's about achieving human equality over gender equality, recognizing the unique needs and challenges faced by all individuals."

It's about achieving human equality over gender equality, recognizing the unique needs and challenges faced by all individuals

My reflections: I wholeheartedly agree with Yesutor's balanced approach. At our core, we are humans first, each with unique strengths and weaknesses that transcend gender categories. True equality means recognizing our shared humanity while appreciating how our differences can complement one another. By focusing on human dignity rather than strictly gendered frameworks, we create space for authentic collaboration and mutual respect. This perspective acknowledges that gender equality isn't about sameness but about ensuring everyone has equal access to opportunities, respect, and autonomy regardless of gender identity.

Looking Forward: Advice for Future Generations

Yesutor's advice for young women is empowering: "Don't let anyone stop you. You create your own worth and value don't wait for anyone to put it on you. Even if your past did not provide you with the necessary foundation, seek out opportunities that can help reconstruct that foundation, and upon it, build your dreams and aspirations. Never stop learning because once you do, you stop growing and start dying. No one can stop you except yourself, but that is only possible if you do not know your purpose. The sky should never be your limit because there are galaxies beyond that can be reached."

The sky should never be your limit because there are galaxies beyond that can be reached

My aspirations: I envision a society where girls grow up seeing possibilities rather than limitations. Where earning potential and career opportunities aren't influenced by gender but by passion, skill, and determination. I hope future generations understand that economic independence and professional achievement are human rights, not gendered privileges. By dismantling these artificial barriers, we create space for everyone to pursue their authentic ambitions and contribute their unique gifts to society.

Conclusion

My conversation with Yesutor revealed both progress and persistent challenges in the journey toward gender equality. Her family's breaking of gender stereotypes across generations demonstrates how cultural change can begin at home, while her professional experiences highlight the ongoing need for vigilance against gender-based discrimination and exploitation.

What strikes me most is the importance of balance in our approach to gender equality ensuring that our efforts lift everyone rather than inadvertently creating new inequalities. As we celebrate International Women's Day 2025, perhaps this balanced perspective offers the most promising path forward.

Through this interview process, I've gained a deeper appreciation for how arbitrary many gender roles truly are. Who decides what roles belong to which gender, and why can't these expectations evolve? By questioning these fundamental assumptions, we open ourselves to more authentic ways of being and relating. Perhaps the most profound form of gender equality lies in this freedom, the liberty to define ourselves beyond prescribed roles and to recognize the full humanity in one another beyond gender categories.

The most profound form of gender equality lies in the liberty to define ourselves beyond prescribed roles and to recognize the full humanity in one another beyond gender categories

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