Instead, it is the constant scrutiny of their work ethic, capabilities and their commitment to the job they do that becomes the challenge.
"As a female in a male dominated environment, you will always be under scrutiny. This means your every move will be examined," says Nthabiseng Nakwela.
Anne Vertue is passionate about the work she does. Driven by the desire to help those in need, she says nothing can be more awarding than helping others, saving lives and the environment.
Back in 2007, Anne became the first woman to join the PetroSA fire team. "This is my destiny; it is in my blood," says Ann.
As a woman, Adel argues that society must not accept females as employees doing their job, not as someone simply there to fill a spot.
"Regardless of the role we play or the industry we work in, we give our utmost best at any given time or task," says Adel. The environment they work in has its challenges. "Looking at an incident while we extinguish a car fire, knowing that the man involved is a father who has lost everything, his wife and children, is no easy task."
These ladies echo that the sky is not the limit, the individual is. If one want to reach that goal, be aware it will not be easy; there will be challenges, but it is certainly attainable.
Senior fire officer at PetroSA Nthabiseng Nakwela faces up to the many challenges of her working environment with a smile.
Adel Supra sees her work as an exciting challenge.
'We bring you the latest Mossel Bay | Garden Route news'
