This week marks International Women’s Day – a chance to celebrate the achievements of women around the world, remember those who have fought for their rights, and reflect on how we can continue the fight for equality. One of IWD’s key missions is about supporting women at work – to forge inclusive work cultures where women’s careers thrive: a mission which Indeed Flex wholeheartedly believes in. From finance to retail, construction to logistics, to roles spanning the entire industrial sector, women are now playing a bigger role in industries historically dominated by men – but more needs to be done. According to data gathered by the Office for National Statistics, women hold only 17% of chef positions in the UK, and only 13% of roles in warehouse, delivery, and logistics. To celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, we asked some of our female Flexers who are thriving in these traditionally male-dominated roles, to give their views on what it’s like working in these fields, and to share their advice for other women pursuing similar career paths. 
Carmen, delivery driver by day / sound engineer by night “My favourite job is being a delivery driver – I’m outdoors and meeting new people a lot. Customers always assume I’m male, and are surprised and encouraging when they see I’m a woman. Don’t be afraid to take on a challenge or do something different. Once you do, you’ll feel like you can achieve anything.” 
Courage, Masters Student and Warehouse Operative “Working in a warehouse is the same for women and men. I’ve had no issues and everyone’s been really friendly and helpful. As women, I believe if we put our minds to it, we can accomplish anything.” 
Despoina, Chef “Being a female chef is still very hard. Of course, things have progressed since I joined the industry 28 years ago, but there’s still a lot more to be done until we’re on the same level as men. Women have to work three times as hard as men to prove our talent and strengths, and we’re underestimated a lot. We have to adapt to the environment and try to act like a man to command the same level of respect. I’ve wanted to be a chef since I was young, and I’m really proud that I followed my dream and now do what I love. I want to see other strong women fighting for what they want, not listening to those who tell them they won’t make it, and being proud of what they do.”
