International Women’s Day (IWD) is an annual event to celebrate women’s achievements and spread the message of female empowerment and gender equality across the world.
As the day grows near, Bahrain Confidential celebrates the achievements of women in Bahrain and around the world by putting them on the spotlight and knowing how they #ChoosetoChallenge every day.
Today’s spotlight is on Hend Alawadhi, Aircraft Engineer and Senior Airworthiness Inspector.
What does the 2021 International Women’s Day slogan, #ChoosetoChallenge mean for you in your work life?
My career life since day one was a challenge. As choosing a male dominant field that has minimum to no women (aviation) isn’t easy and deciding to continue down this path with all the obstacles every single day, I believe answers your question.
What barriers have you faced, as a woman, in becoming successful in your field? How did you overcome them?
The first and biggest barrier was being a woman in a man dominated field. People also thought I was not aware neither fit enough to what I’m getting myself into because I was young. These stereotypes all changed once I actually achieved the first goal of being one of the first female aircraft engineers. But I didn’t settle there.
My urge for self-development and taking up challenges gave me new opportunities and possibilities – leading me as a pioneer in the aviation field. With it, I was given a new role as a Senior Airworthiness Inspector at Bahrain’s Civil Aviation, which also makes me the first woman to hold this position.
What’s one tip that greatly impacted you and your career trajectory?
Always go with the choices that scare you the most, because they are the ones that are going to help you grow the most.
On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?
My personal quote “It’s your life, it’s your choice, so choose wisely”.
What do you enjoy doing the most when you’re off work?
Travelling and blogging.