Why must Caribbean Women Leaders step up and be role models in male-dominated fields

Celebrating International Women's Day March 8, 2025

Happy International Women's day.

Why is this day particularly important for Women in Caribbean Aquaculture?

HIGHLIGHTING WOMEN IN THE AQUACULTURE FIELD

Did you know that a higher percentage of women in the Caribbean pursue higher education in aquaculture than men? Yes, there are more Women Aquaculture Scientists than there are male scientists. Yet, when it comes to leadership roles in Aquaculture-centered NGOs and organizations located in the Caribbean, women from the Caribbean remain underrepresented.

Why does this gap persist, and how can we address it?

There is an example of a very recent case of a Caribbean woman applying for a position as an Executive Director in a prominent NGO in the region. She was requested to update her CV with her birthdate and consequently denied an interview because of her age - Despite being highly qualified with a string of degrees and years of experience behind her name. Ageism for women in 2025 in the Caribbean still exists. This is a stark reminder why I am dedicated to building a community of women that can support each other and why I am committed to fostering a network of women leaders in aquaculture across the Caribbean.

Aquaculture is critical to food security, livelihoods, and sustainable development in our region. Women bring unique perspectives, skills, and innovative approaches to the industry, but systemic internal barriers and fears amongst young women often hold them back from leadership positions.

In male-dominated fields, Caribbean women often face challenges—ranging from systemic internal bias to a lack of representation—that can make the journey to success feel isolating.

These barriers, however, also create an opportunity for those who break through to become powerful role models for the next generation. And these women who become leaders need to step up to assist the next generation.

Representation matters. When young women see someone who looks like them thriving in a field where they are underrepresented, it sends a clear message: You can do this too. This visibility is crucial for breaking stereotypes and inspiring confidence in those who might otherwise shy away from pursuing their ambitions.

Here’s why we need more women leaders in aquaculture:
✅ Diverse leadership drives innovation – Women in leadership bring fresh ideas that can transform aquaculture.
✅ Representation matters – Women leaders inspire the next generation to pursue their goals.
✅ Collaboration fosters growth – Inclusive leadership strengthens the industry as a whole.

Role models serve as a bridge, offering mentorship, guidance, and practical advice that comes from lived experience. They provide a roadmap for navigating the challenges of inequality, showing younger women that it’s possible not just to survive but to thrive in these spaces.

But the importance of role models goes beyond the individual. When women lead, they challenge the status quo, paving the way for systemic change. Their successes expand the narrative of what women—and particularly women of colour—can achieve, creating a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.

So, to Caribbean women working in male-dominated fields: Your visibility matters. Your voice matters. By sharing your stories, struggles, and triumphs, you inspire the next generation to dream big, persevere, and claim their place at the table. Let’s empower each other and ensure that the road to success becomes a little less lonely for those who follow in our footsteps.

Together, we can redefine the future.

---

SUPPORT Women in Caribbean Aquaculture by attending the first Leadership Summit for Women.

REGISTER NOW

https://www.caribbeanaquaculturehub.com/women-in-caribbean-aquaculture-leadership-summit

Join us March 10th for our session with a most inspiring Leader of Women in the seafood industry Mrs. Patricia Francis