We often struggle to make choices because we've often been told that we can't have it all. But why can't we have it all?
Today's Shero, Susan Perez who works in the field of global health management tells us about her line of work, what the struggles she faces are all about and how women can in fact have it all!
What line of work are you in?
I have been working in the field of global health for nearly 20 years and am now co-director of a small community-based global AIDS and health consulting firm called AIDS Strategy, Advocacy and Policy (ASAP). With associates around the world who share a clear commitment to confronting AIDS and poverty, ASAP supports organizations, projects, initiatives, and programmes that deliver a real difference to people's lives, especially women.
How did the inspiration to be part of this field of work come about?
I became inspired to work in health when I worked as a volunteer in a small town in the Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire), West Africa. I spent two years in this town right after earning a university degree and worked with the community to plan, develop and conduct a series of health education sessions for new mothers and young adolescent girls. It was amazing to see them become empowered with the new information they were learning. This experience gave me my first exposure to working in the health field and I became hooked.
Professionally, where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?
I see myself as a lifelong passionate advocate for accessible and quality health services for all women and those most marginalized and vulnerable.
What long term objectives do you have for your area of work?
I aim to be an effective leader for ASAP to ensure that we continue to do projects that make a difference for people.
What top challenges do you face in your field and how do you overcome them?
Funding is always an issue for AIDS and global health as there are so many competing priorities. People working in AIDS and global health constantly have to make the case that investing in health should be a top priority of governments.
Any words of advice for other Sheroes?
I've met a lot of women who are at a crossroads between choosing a career or a family. I've met women who have stopped working to have a family and then were trying to figure out how to get back to a career. My experience has taught me that it's ok to not have it all figured out with a clear plan. Sometimes and maybe more often, taking risks that are uncomfortable at first can lead to the best results. Women can have it all!