Bisma Rafique
In recent years, Pakistan has made strides toward gender inclusivity, with women breaking barriers in fields once considered the exclusive domain of men. From female astronauts like Dr. Sarah Al Amiri of the UAE to Pakistani women driving taxis and running delivery services, the narrative is changing. Yet, despite these advancements, a troubling trend persists in our society: the association of certain jobs with specific genders. Professions like teaching, nursing, and caregiving are often labeled as “feminine,” while roles in engineering, technology, and driving are seen as “masculine.” These stereotypes limit opportunities for individuals based on their gender rather than their skills or talents. This mindset is not only regressive but also counterproductive in a world that increasingly values diversity and meritocracy.
The idea that certain jobs are better suited to a specific gender is rooted in archaic societal norms. Historically, men were seen as breadwinners, while women were confined to domestic roles. However, the 21st century has shattered these notions. Women are now astronauts, engineers, pilots, and CEOs, proving that no profession is beyond their capabilities. Similarly, men are excelling in fields like nursing, teaching, and fashion design; areas traditionally dominated by women. These examples underscore a simple truth ‘talent and skill know no gender.’
Namira Salim, Pakistan’s first woman in space, exemplifies how women can excel in unconventional fields. Her achievement is a testament to the fact that women can excel in even the most challenging and unconventional fields. Closer to home, we have women like Zar Aslam, who founded Pakistan’s first all-female ride-hailing service, “Pink Rickshaw,” empowering women to take on roles as drivers in a male-dominated industry. These women are not exceptions; they are proof that given the opportunity, women can thrive in any profession.
Similarly, men are increasingly breaking free from traditional gender roles. In Pakistan, we see men working as makeup artists, flight attendants, and care givers roles that were once stigmatized as “feminine.” This shift is a positive sign that society is beginning to recognize the value of individual choice and capability over rigid gender norms.
Despite these advancements, the association of certain jobs with specific genders remains a stark reminder of the biases that still plague our society. For example, teaching is often seen as a “soft” profession suited for women, while technical roles like engineering are labeled as “tough” and masculine. Such stereotypes not only discourage individuals from pursuing their passions but also perpetuate harmful norms. When we label teaching as a “woman’s job,” we undermine the contributions of male educators who bring unique perspectives to the field. Similarly, when we assume that only men can excel in technical roles, we overlook the countless women who are driving innovation in these areas.
The consequences of these gendered associations are far-reaching. They reinforce the idea that certain professions are off-limits to one gender, discouraging individuals from pursuing their interests. They also create a hostile environment where people are judged not by their performance but by their ability to conform to gender expectations. This not only stifles innovation but also limits the potential of organizations and societies to benefit from diverse perspectives.
It is time for us to recognize that talent is gender-neutral. Professions should be defined by the skills and expertise they require, not by outdated stereotypes. A teacher’s ability to inspire students, a nurse’s capacity for empathy, or an engineer’s problem-solving skills have nothing to do with gender. By breaking free from these stereotypes, we can create a society where individuals are free to pursue their passions and contribute to their fullest potential.
As a society, we must also challenge the stereotypes that underpin these practices. Parents, educators, and policymakers have a role to play in encouraging young people to pursue their interests, regardless of gender. Schools and universities should promote STEM education for girls and humanities for boys, breaking down the artificial barriers that limit their choices. Media and advertising should also reflect a more inclusive vision of gender roles, showcasing men and women in diverse professions.
The examples of female astronauts and Pakistani women taxi drivers remind us that the only limits we face are the ones we impose on ourselves. It is time to move beyond gender distinctions and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed based on their abilities, not their gender. After all, the sky is not the limit—it is just the beginning.
The writer is a freelance journalist. She tweets/posts @bismarafique and can be reached at: rafiquebisma00@gmail.com
