This article celebrates the stories of four female MSF staff in South Sudan who confront gender norms and make significant contributions to their communities. They serve in various roles, from technical positions to community health leadership, showcasing resilience and dedication. Their experiences are inspiring examples of female empowerment and the importance of education for young women.
On this International Women’s Day, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) honors the transformative contributions of its female staff in South Sudan. These women actively challenge traditional gender roles within their communities, demonstrating resilience in their respective fields. From nursing and community health leadership to technical and logistical roles, their dedication makes a significant difference in the lives of those they serve.
Marline Loki is an AC technician at MSF in Juba. Since joining in July 2022, she has been instrumental in the installation, servicing, and maintenance of air conditioning systems. Marline’s interest in the role stemmed from the impactful work of MSF, which inspired her commitment to technical education. She has benefited from extensive training, including a specialized course in South Africa, and aims to empower other women to pursue careers in technical fields, asserting, “If I can do it, they can too.”
Akuol Elizabeth serves as the head of community health workers in the Renk emergency project. Leading a team of ten, she participates in household health visits, managing care for vulnerable populations and providing essential health education. Despite the significant challenges faced, including environmental and societal factors, Akuol remains steadfast in her mission, reflecting that, “Giving health messages to someone means a lot – you have changed someone’s life.” Her leadership fosters growth and skill enhancement within her team.
Martha Korok is one of the few female nurses in Boma, where cultural norms often restrict female education. As a graduate of the MSF Academy for Healthcare, she mentors aspiring nurses, leading by example to promote female education in her community. Martha expresses her pride in representing women in nursing, emphasizing the need for more girls to access education. She states, “I want my community to understand that women are important.”
Susan James Jokudu, now a warehouse supervisor in Juba, has a compelling story of resilience. Born in Kajo Keji and raised in a refugee camp, her determination led her to acquire a degree in logistics. After joining MSF in 2015, she has worked to debunk gender stereotypes in her position, advocating for women’s roles beyond traditional nursing and midwifery. Susan reflects on the importance of her work, stating, “My work is more than a job – it changes lives.”
These four inspiring women exemplify how female empowerment can reshape communities and challenge societal norms in South Sudan. Their impactful journeys not only illustrate personal achievements but also serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging future generations to pursue diverse career paths regardless of gender restrictions. By advocating for education and professional development for women, they are creating a ripple effect of positive change in their communities.
In conclusion, the stories of Marline Loki, Akuol Elizabeth, Martha Korok, and Susan James Jokudu highlight the profound impact of female MSF staff in South Sudan. Their commitment to their roles not only breaks down gender barriers but also inspires future generations of women to pursue diverse careers. As they continue to face challenges, their resilience and determination serve as a testament to the potential of women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.ca
