Mastering male-dominated professions requires inner strength and resilience. Many women in Toronto perform challenging work across various fields, overcoming obstacles along the way. Each has her own story. Learn how these women achieve what many might consider impossible for a woman at torontonka.
Photography as a Life Purpose
Photography is often considered a male-dominated profession. When we look at the founders of camera brands or experts selected for panel discussions, they are usually men.
However, Danielle Da Silva defies this stereotype. As the head of Photographers Without Borders, an organization that provides video and photo services to various companies, Danielle shared in an interview with CBC that when she is working, she feels like a queen. She finds joy in creating photo stories that positively impact people’s lives.
Danielle frequently works on sets and in studios where she is the only woman present, yet she feels no discomfort. Her photography spans people and nature across the globe, and her years behind the camera have given her a wealth of experience, subtly reshaping stereotypes about the profession and men’s roles within it.
Often, people on set don’t notice Danielle as the photographer, assuming a man must be behind the camera. She has also encountered unequal pay for the same work. During interviews, people sometimes assume she lacks the technical skills or the strength to handle and carry equipment.
As CEO, Danielle is committed to mentoring aspiring photographers and creating a safe space in her workplace. She believes in fostering a positive environment, upholding a supportive work culture, and leading by example. Her goal is to show women that they can do whatever they set their minds to.
Danielle has also noticed more women entering the photography field. She hopes that equal and fair pay will soon become the standard in this industry.
Leading a Manufacturing Plant
Ali Woodley holds the position of Plant Director at Honda Canada in Alliston, Ontario. From a young age, she was interested in cars. Her father, who worked for GM and Ford, instilled in her a love for automobiles.
Her first job was born of necessity, as she needed the money. In 1986, Woodley started working at Honda Canada’s manufacturing plant in the paint department. She eventually rose to the position of plant director, overseeing production of over 800 Civics per day.
In her interview with CBC, Woodley describes the automotive industry as one of the most dynamic fields, where she faces challenges every day—from putting out fires to painting and welding structures.
Throughout her career, Ali has seen many changes at the plant, including an increase in female employees. As of 2018, approximately 15% of Honda Canada’s engineering and technical staff are women.
Working in a male-dominated industry has never been an obstacle for Woodley, who enjoys the respect of her colleagues. She believes that attracting more women to the automotive industry starts with increasing the number of technology courses in school curriculums.
Women shouldn’t sit back and wait for change. They should fight for their rights and pursue work that they love.
Reflecting on these two inspiring stories, it’s clear that women can master male-dominated professions and perform their duties on par with men.