What would you say are the main challenges in your work as a woman?
It was naturally a challenge working in fields like water engineering, water supply and sanitation, hydraulic infrastructures, known in the past as fields more for man. It was mainly a man's world and I had to learn to "not to listen" to what people would say about my capacity to do the work. At home I got all the need support to be able to do my work.
What have you done to overcome these obstacles/challenges?
First of all I accepted the challenge to work in something that would directly improve women's lives in Mozambique. This was important as it helped me to better influence the policies and strategies. Also I kept updated with the new approaches in the water field, so that my colleagues would see my inputs as an added value to the institution. I also attended courses to improve my knowledge. Today I hold a Master Degree in Water and Environmental Management and a Master Degree in Project Management. From 2011 to 2015 I was the National Director for Water in Mozambique and during that period policies and plans were implemented contributing to improve the national coverage in terms of access to water and sanitation.
What advice would you give to other women in similar situations (in the water world)?
First of all you have to believe in your won capacities with no doubts, than make use of the advantage (someone may say that it is an disadvantage) of being a woman to influence policies that will contribute to other women. I believe that those who feel and understand the problem are those who are in a better conditions to push others, and be more committed to do everything to change the situation. It is also important for women to get the support from the family.