Ms. Froso Kola, Chief Accountant of Commercial and Technical Department, speaks to Economy Today about International Women’s Day, emphasizing that March 8th is not just a celebration, but a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equal opportunities and wage equality.
Today, we see more women than ever leading in politics, business and science. Do you think it’s time to stop focusing exclusively on women and talk about social justice as a whole, or should March 8th be a reminder that, despite progress, inequalities persist?
I believe that enormous progress has been made regarding the position of women, but their role remains one of the key issues that concern society. Especially in the professional field, women do not enjoy equal treatment compared to men. I believe that, in order for balance to prevail in society, social justice needs to triumph first. March 8th is not just a celebration. It is a day of remembrance and highlighting the inequalities that prevail at a social, professional and economic level. It is a day of commitment for all women to continue the struggle to promote their rights for equal opportunities for professional advancement and wage parity.
What is the biggest myth about women in the professional world that you would like to see dispelled?
There are many myths about women in the workplace. The salary scale in which they are included is perhaps the biggest myth that creates unequal employment conditions for women. Unfortunately, in Cyprus, we are far behind in terms of opportunities for women to advance in the pyramid of a company. Although new generations of women resist these prevailing perceptions, it takes time for society to accept reality and for perceptions like this to disappear.
If you could give one piece of advice to young women who are just starting out on their careers, what would it be?
Modern women have nothing to envy from their male colleagues. My 40-year career in finance has taught me that perseverance, belief in our abilities, the courage to demand what we deserve and our determination are the keys to a successful career. I would advise young women to do the same!
A great woman who is a source of inspiration for you.
Malala Yousafzai
Short CV.
Froso Kola was born in Limassol, graduated from St Mary’s School and holds the LCCI. During her 40-year career in the job market, she was called upon by her position to manage important issues and take on tasks in the field of financial management. Her professional career in the Group began in 2006 (the year of the Group’s establishment) with a remarkable contribution, and today she holds the position of Chief Accountant of Commercial and Technical Department of the Green Energy Group.