Women entrepreneurs in this field demonstrate remarkable resilience, determination, and ability to overcome these challenges and achieve our goals.
SANTO DOMINGO – Wanda del Orbe, Team Leader at Keller Williams Realty, believes that International Women's Day is the perfect occasion to recognize and celebrate the role of women entrepreneurs in all fields, and of course, those in the real estate sector. “Women who venture into this field face unique challenges, but we also have the opportunity to leave a significant and transformative mark on the industry,” she states.
This High-End Woman believes that when working in real estate, "we are not only contributing to the economic growth of society, but we are also challenging stereotypes and demonstrating the ability to lead and thrive in a sector historically dominated by men.".
She adds: “It’s essential to recognize that the path to success in real estate can be fraught with obstacles, from gender inequality to biases deeply ingrained in corporate culture. However, women entrepreneurs in this field demonstrate remarkable resilience, determination, and ability to overcome these challenges and achieve our goals.”.
Del Orbe believes there has been significant progress in the role of women as societal changes occur. She argues that in the Dominican Republic, as in many other parts of the world, the recognition of women's rights has advanced in some areas, but that much remains to be done in others.
“The need to implement laws that more effectively protect women’s rights, such as the Law Against Gender Violence, which seeks to prevent, punish, and eradicate violence against women in all its forms. However, we must not overlook the fact that the effective implementation of these laws can be a challenge for us as a society,” explains the prominent real estate advisor with 14 years of experience in the sector.
She adds that while progress has been made in terms of access to education and participation in the workforce, challenges remain regarding equal opportunities and equal pay. “Furthermore, gender stereotypes persist that limit women’s educational and professional options,” she emphasizes, in response to questions for El Inmobiliario on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
She says she has seen progress in the representation of women in Dominican politics in recent decades, but clarifies that there is still a significant gap in representation between men and women, because the female population continues to face barriers to accessing leadership and decision-making positions.
This captain of KW Capital feels valued in her true dimension for several reasons: “Firstly, because the recognition and appreciation comes from my clients and colleagues within the industry, who can appreciate the professionalism with which I dedicate myself to my work, the market knowledge I have and why not, the negotiation skills that I have been developing over these years.”.
He adds that a sense of value can be derived from the positive impact their work has on clients' lives, helping them find the perfect home or make successful investments in the real estate market, which can generate gratitude and recognition.
Del Orbe maintains that as a Keller Williams real estate agent in the Dominican Republic, he occupies a crucial position in the local real estate market and that the brand he represents is known internationally for its innovative approach, cutting-edge technology, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in customer service.
“In this context, my role takes on significant importance. In our country's real estate market, where competition is fierce and the demand for properties is constantly changing, I believe I have developed the ability to adapt, innovate, and stay abreast of local trends, which is fundamental,” he emphasizes.
She adds that her position as a Keller Williams real estate agent in the Dominican Republic is a responsibility she takes seriously and with pride, and that she is committed to excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction, and strives to exceed expectations in every transaction she conducts.
Regarding the role of women in today's society, she believes that in the workplace, Dominican women occupy important roles in various sectors, including tourism, health, education, the textile industry and others, although she feels that challenges still persist in terms of salary equality and representation in leadership positions.
For Wanda del Orbe, being a woman in the Dominican Republic involves considering various cultural, social, and personal aspects that influence the experience of that gender.
“First, being a woman in the Dominican Republic means confronting deeply ingrained gender norms in society, which often dictate specific roles and expectations for women. This can include traditional gender roles, such as caring for the home and family, which still largely persist. However, it is important to note that these norms are gradually changing, with more women seeking education and professional opportunities outside the home.”.
Furthermore, she argues, being a woman in our country can mean dealing with specific challenges related to gender inequality, such as the gender pay gap, workplace discrimination, and gender-based violence. Although significant progress has been made in legislation and policies to address these issues, much remains to be done in terms of changing deeply rooted cultural attitudes and ensuring full gender equality.
Wanda del Orbe. (External source).
“In short, being a woman in the Dominican Republic is a complex experience that involves facing challenges, fighting for equality, and celebrating the diversity and strength of women in all their facets,” she explains.
She urges women to rise each day with renewed strength, to look in the mirror and see the most valuable woman of all, and to know that they can achieve anything they dream of. She also encourages them to believe in themselves, to trust in their worth and abilities, and in their capacity to achieve their goals.
“To raise our voices and not be afraid to express our opinions and defend our rights. To support other women, because together we are stronger. To fight for gender equality in all its forms. To take care of ourselves, prioritizing our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. To never give up in the face of the challenges and obstacles that come our way, without losing our determination or hope.”.
And she asks younger women to cultivate strong self-esteem and self-confidence, to recognize their worth, and not to let anyone make them feel less than. She urges them to empower themselves to lead and make their voices heard in their communities and in society at large, because their ideas and opinions matter.
“They should demand to be treated with respect in all areas of their lives, whether at home, at work, or in their personal relationships. Let's not tolerate abuse or discrimination. They should seek out role models and find inspiration in women who have achieved extraordinary things in different fields. They demonstrate that anything is possible with determination and hard work,” Del Orbe concludes.
