International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call for gender equality. In the overall construction industry, this day is particularly significant because the field has traditionally been dominated by men. However, over the past few years this is starting to change as women have stated to provide significant contributions in the sector.
Construction Business News ME spoke with Rana Abuauref, Health & Safety Manager at Red Sea Global, who is part of Saudi’s most ambitious giga project – The Red Sea Global.
What inspired you to get into your line of work?
For those looking to make a real difference in the world, the health and safety sector offers incredible opportunities. It’s not just about hard-hats and hi-vis vests. It’s a highly rewarding profession that involves supporting employee health and wellbeing, and keeping them safe, so they can return home to their loved ones. It is fundamental to businesses and plays a vital role in creating a sustainable, healthy, and productive workforce.
What attracted you to RSG and why did you choose it over other companies?
I joined Red Sea Global (RSG) in June 2021. In my search for value and a sense of community, I found a place where I have faced with a myriad of opportunities to help me grow.
RSG’s values resonate with me on a deep level. You often don’t see the company’s values prioritize the wellbeing of people, but RSG promises just that.
The company’s four core values start with respect, which lies at the center of everything and is the beating heart of the corporate culture. RSG treats all of us with respect and embraces diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
The second value of responsibility applies to both the natural environment, driven by a commitment to protecting it for future generations, as well as the culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia. RSG is helping to increase opportunities both within the destination’s communities and across Saudi Arabia, with particular focus on empowering women to play a valuable part in achieving the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.
Next, a passion to achieve results with excellence is ingrained in all of us at RSG. We all continually go beyond expectations and strive to achieve the best outcomes every day.
And finally, we embrace collaboration to learn from each other, grow together, and work as a team in a caring and diverse culture. We believe that it is only by coming together as one unit, that we can achieve extraordinary results.
What is different/unique about the team that you are currently working with?
Since I joined the team, I have been amazed all the support and respect I have received. I have learned a lot from my colleagues in each area. They are always happy to answer any questions I have with a warm smile, and continue to encourage me to strive for excellence every day. We all work together and motivate each other. No matter the issues or challenges, you will see us all coming together. We all work with passion, ambition, and care.
How would you describe RSG’s company culture?
I remember my first impression when I joined RSG; it was like a world of its own. You will find a diverse team of people from various countries and cultures, all working together hand-in-hand to achieve the same goals – especially enabling women’s empowerment. Everyone is willing to help and support, regardless of the departments. For example, even though I work in health & safety, if I have a question related to MEP or construction, the team are happy to answer with a warm smile. That’s what makes RSG’s culture full of passion, respect, collaboration, and humanity.
What does a typical day in your work life look like?
Honestly, there is no typical day. That’s what makes life here so special; every day, you are faced with new opportunities that enrich your day. We have various projects on the inlands and offshore, so every day you are promised a new experience.
What energizes and motivates you the most at work?
I most enjoy the after-work activities that are specially organized for women. Activities like ladies’ night, Yoga, Zumba, and the gym makes like off-site even more fun.
At work, it’s the motivation, support, and encouragement that drives us to do better. Everyone in the senior leadership – from John Pagano, Ahmad Darwish, and top management – makes us believe in ourselves and dream bigger.
How do you blend work and life to create the right balance?
Once you organize your time and priorities, the balance comes automatically.
What progress have you seen on gender equality within Saudi Arabia?
The fact is in the figures. According to Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Statistics’ (GASTAT), the percentage of female workforce reached 37 percent in 2022. The drive towards female empowerment was always present, but nothing like what we are experiencing today. The launch of Vision2030 has paved an exciting path for woman empowerment, driven by tangible developments of the national law and policies. Women now can work in any position, at any time, as per their capabilities – be it construction, military, aerospace, and even leading executive positions.
What’s your International Women’s Day message for young women?
Believe in yourself and your dreams, and work hard to achieve them. Reflect on any criticism as a constructive step to reach your goals. Be yourself and enjoy your life.