This article celebrates the impactful contributions of female MSF staff in South Sudan, highlighting their roles in challenging gender stereotypes and empowering their communities. Four women share their inspiring stories of resilience and professional growth within various capacities in MSF, illustrating how they are redefining women’s roles in society.
On International Women’s Day, we honor the remarkable contributions of female staff at Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in South Sudan. Women like a nurse in Boma, a community health leader in Renk, and a logistics supervisor in Juba challenge gender stereotypes and inspire their communities through resilience and dedication in challenging environments. They serve as powerful role models, demonstrating that women can excel in various fields, including those traditionally dominated by men.
Marlindo Kifranco Ani, serving as an AC technician in Juba, reflects on her journey since joining MSF in July 2022. Her responsibilities include maintaining AC systems, and she expresses her pride in her work, stating that it grants her confidence and capabilities in technical tasks. Despite facing resistance from those who assert that such roles are exclusively for men, she remains committed to her career aspirations and aims to empower other women to pursue similar paths, asserting, “If I can do it, they can too.”
Akuol Elizabeth, head of community health workers for the Renk emergency project, oversees a devoted team that provides essential health services. Daily, they assess community health needs, particularly for vulnerable groups. Akuol emphasizes her commitment to community empowerment through health education and is motivated by her passion for improving lives, stating, “My team and I are at the forefront of the MSF Renk emergency response.”
In Boma, Martha Korok stands out as one of the few female nurses, challenging societal norms concerning women’s education. She advocates for women’s roles in healthcare and acts as a mentor within the MSF Academy, inspiring young women in her community. Her dedication is evident in her belief that by showcasing women’s capabilities, societal mindsets can change to value education for girls.
Susan James Jokudu, a warehouse supervisor in Juba, shares her story of resilience after facing hardships during her childhood as a refugee. Despite stereotypes regarding women’s roles within MSF, she pursued logistics and now encourages young women to redefine their career possibilities. Her experiences have inspired her to ensure the next generation receives the educational opportunities she fought for.
These female MSF staff members in South Sudan exemplify strength, determination, and the transformative power of women’s participation in all fields, standing as testaments to the capacity for change and advancement in their communities.
The stories of these four remarkable women underscore the significant role of female staff in MSF and the impact they have on their communities in South Sudan. They exemplify resilience in overcoming societal norms and inspire the empowerment of women in various fields. Collectively, they demonstrate that with determination and dedication, women can break through barriers and achieve excellence wherever they choose to serve.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
