Dr Cavell Francis, Red Stripe’s Special Projects Manager

What do you think is the biggest barrier to achieving true equality, and what steps can, or have you personally taken, to empower more women to claim their rights?

THE principal obstacle to achieving true gender equality and equity lies in the persistence of systemic barriers and ingrained biases that both men and women must consciously unlearn and dismantle. Despite the profound contributions women have made—and continue to make—to workplaces, communities, and society at large, their work remains undervalued. This devaluation is evident in persistent disparities in salaries and promotion practices, even in environments where women perform at par with their male counterparts.

While women today are more educated than previous generations, parity remains elusive. The root of this imbalance lies in a deeply embedded yet unsubstantiated belief that women’s work holds lesser value. Addressing this requires a fundamental cultural shift, spearheaded by businesses, governments, and civil institutions. These entities must lead by example, ensuring gender parity through deliberate policies and practices. With sustained and collective effort, we can begin to unlearn harmful biases and replace them with equitable norms that recognise and reward women’s contributions fairly.

However, institutional change alone is insufficient. On a more personal level, individuals—especially those in positions of influence—must commit to being active allies in the pursuit of gender equality. Allyship is not a passive role; it involves advocating for equal opportunities, challenging discriminatory practices, and amplifying the voices of women in decision-making spaces.

It is not enough to solely aim for equality; the process of achieving it must also be just and fair. Gender equality and equity should be pursued with integrity, ensuring that every woman’s journey is free from systemic hindrances. True progress occurs when we move beyond performative gestures and implement tangible, transformational actions. We can collectively pave the way for a future where gender equality is a lived reality by creating a culture of allyship, accountability, and intentional inclusion.