[www.inewsguyana.com] – Two female stalwarts in aviation were today honoured as Guyana joined with the rest of the world in observing International Civil Aviation Day.
Ms. Paula Mc Adam who was the first female air traffic controller in Guyana, and has spent over 40 years in this field was presented with an award alongside Ms. Sandra Persaud who was the first female in airport management in Guyana.
Ms. Chitrani Heeralall, who is also a woman in aviation, reflected on the lives of these women who dared to pursue their careers in this area, a career which was followed by men only for over 30 years.
Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn during his remarks noted that women have played a key role in the development of the local aviation sector, and the efforts of the first women in aviation in Guyana were recognised. He urged more women to get involved.
“The development needs of our country means that we have to call upon the efforts, the knowledge and skills of women, which they have as much as we do: perhaps they have more than we do because we are not engineered for some other purposes.”
He added, ” we have to facilitate and foster a culture that brings in women in our work force, the administration and all levels of the things we do to be able to develop our country rapidly.”He noted that the country is constantly growing and “we have to call upon all resources.”
Both women expressed their gratitude to the Ministry and the sector for this undertaking. Ms. Mc Adam encouraged young women to never consider themselves weaker than males, but instead stand their ground and be confident in what they do.
Meanwhile, Ms. Persaud encouraged women not to be complacent, and men to give them the chance because they can bring a lot to the table.[Extracted and modified from GINA]
