Demystifying the Perception: Are there Sustainable Careers for Women in Media?

A persistent notion claims that 'Women can't sustain long-lasting careers in the media industry.'

Gender Inequality in Indian Media is an attempt to quantify gender diversity across Indian newsrooms.

Intrigued by the 'why'

I explored some apparent reasons for women in media not being able to place themselves as easily as their male counterparts:

👩‍🔬 Underrepresentation: While the media industry showcases popular 'faces,' there's a noticeable dearth of representation behind the camera and in producer roles.

Changing the way women are portrayed in the media: a cause for celebration

👧 Project-Based Work and Structural Challenges: There's a prevailing belief that women pursuing media careers require an exceptionally supportive partner or none at all. The irregularities during shoots or the chaotic nature of media production can be inconvenient for women.

Consider a 35-year-old female producer with a 3-year-old child. She either needs a full-time nanny or must ensure flawless production to balance work and family responsibilities. This assumes her partner is either employed or a full-time homemaker, highlighting the need for shared parenting responsibilities.

The New Urgency for Work-Life Balance: Why Women Are Quitting Their Jobs and Redesigning Their Lives: RealSimple.com

👩‍🎓 Challenges in Advancement: Women often lack familial support unless they achieve significant success or substantial earnings. Uncertainty about promotions, salary structures, and the dynamics of the media industry deters women from joining or prompts early exits.

Gender Lens In The Media: Why Representation Is Important – Breakthrough Trust

The question arises:

How do we address this? As an industry, isn't it our responsibility to initiate change? Where do we start?

Fostering diversity, providing transparent career paths,

and cultivating a supportive environment can dismantle these barriers, enabling women to succeed as leaders in the media industry. It's time to challenge stereotypes and create an inclusive space for everyone to thrive.