Tough for women to become leaders: poll
Many young women want to take up more leadership roles in society, according to a recent survey.
The Young Women's Christian Association polled more than 1,000 women aged 18 or above in the past three months. Nearly two-thirds of the respondents have such career ambitions, but only one-fifth have achieved them.
More than 40 per cent felt their contributions were underestimated or unrecognised.
Overall, women rated their satisfaction with their level of social involvement 5.2 out of 10.
YWCA women's affairs supervisor Tammy So Yim-fong said the results are troubling. They show gender stereotypes still exist, preventing women from climbing the corporate ladder. 'It is tough for women to handle dual roles - to work and run the house at the same time,' So said.
'As the ageing population increases, families increasingly expect women to stay home.'
She said it's time to share the responsibilities within a family. She also urged the government to set up leadership training schemes for women.
