Indahyani is a young girl who believes that everyone, regardless of gender, deserves the same opportunities. Traditionally, the position of foreman is considered to be dominated by men, but Indahyani is challenging this gender bias.
At just 24 years old, she began her career at PT Sukses Tani Nusasubur (STN), a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk (AALI), a palm oil company.
Hailing from Tirta Mulia Village in Bungo Regency, Jambi Province, Indahyani studied at the Stiper Plantation Community Academy in Yogyakarta (AKPY-STIPER), where she majored in Oil Palm Nursery.
Her passion for the subject comes from her recognition of the vital role that oil palm plays in the Indonesian economy and its promising business potential. ‘I wanted to learn and understand how to use good and correct oil palm nursery techniques according to the standards so that the productivity of the plants is maintained and the results are of high quality. After I enrolled in the oil palm nursery programme, I learnt about the process of how oil palm grows until it can produce and earn money,’ Indahyani said.
Indahyani’s strong desire to build a career in the industry motivated her to take the test and interview when Astra Agro conducted recruitment for students at AKPY-STIPER.
After successfully navigating the selection process, she was accepted for an internship at Astra Agro and assigned to PT STN in East Kalimantan.
During her six-month internship, Indahyani showcased her dedication and competence, which ultimately led to her appointment as a permanent employee at PT STN, where she currently serves as a Rawat Foreman.
Working as a female Nursery Foreman in a palm oil company presents its challenges for Indahyani. With significant duties and responsibilities, she faces various obstacles in a male-dominated industry, where the job is often considered too physically demanding for women.
Despite these challenges, Indahyani believes that men and women have equal rights to choose their workplace. She sees that opportunities in the oil palm sector are expanding, and more women are showing interest in pursuing careers in the industry.
“Everyone deserves the same opportunities, both men and women. Here, I am proving that I can be a female foreman, even in a role predominantly held by men,” said Indahyani.
According to her, it is possible for women to get equal career opportunities with men as long as they keep working hard, do not close themselves off, and are always curious in learning new things.
Indahyani also dismissed the notion that the palm oil industry is not gender-friendly. She emphasised that while working at PT STN, she has never felt differentiated based on gender.
Instead, the work environment is supportive, nurturing, and provides equal opportunities for all employees.
Although she has limitations as a woman, it does not discourage her and she continues to maximise her potential.
‘Here, everyone is treated professionally. Women can still contribute according to their capacity, and I always try to maximise my potential,’ she added.
Although she realises that challenges will increase with the changing phases of life, such as getting married and having children, Indahyani remains optimistic that she can continue to work and give her best in her job. PT Sukses Tani Nusasubur (STN) Administrator, Victor Aybund, is proud of Indahyani’s achievements to date. Of course, it is not easy to work in a place that is far from family, especially since she is a woman.
However, the company has always practised gender equality, giving women the same rights and opportunities for a career.
‘As a competent professional, regardless of gender. Indah is an inspiration or role model for other women to pursue a career in this masculine field. I recognise Indah’s ability and dedication in carrying out her duties,’ Victor said.
Gender equality for workers is not new to Astra Agro.
The company has been implementing this principle for a long time and it has become an inherent work culture in its operations.
Indahyani hopes that her presence in the palm oil industry can inspire and motivate young people and other women who want to pursue a career in oil palm plantations.
In addition, she also wants all companies to continue to strive to create a safe, comfortable, and friendly work environment for women and children.
Source: Tribun News
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