Empowering Women: Browns Plantations Revolutionizes Gender Roles in Sri Lankan Tea Industry

In the traditionally male-dominated Sri Lankan plantation sector, particularly within tea plantations, a profound shift is underway as women step into roles once reserved for men. Leading this transformation are Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs) like Browns Plantations, which are implementing targeted initiatives to empower and support women through comprehensive training and skill development programs. 

Browns Plantations stands out for its commitment to women's empowerment, allocating significant resources to provide essential amenities and specialized training. With a total budget of over Rs. 7 million, comprising of Rs. 2.9 million for Hapugastanne plantations, Rs. 2.6 million for Udapussellawa plantations, and Rs. 2.3 million for Maturata plantations, Browns Plantations has dedicated over 45,600 training hours to empower women across its plantations, benefiting 3,728 female workers in total across all three plantation companies. These efforts are opening new career paths for women in the hill and low country communities, challenging long-held gender norms.

Comprehensive Training Programs

The training initiatives at Browns Plantations encompass a diverse array of crucial areas for professional growth and empowerment. They span professional skill enhancement, including comprehensive training on agricultural techniques, health and safety protocols, environmental conservation, sustainability practices, labor rights, and leadership development at the estates, alongside training on economic strategies, product quality assurance, email writing, payroll management, and effective communication. These programs are designed not only to boost technical proficiency but also to cultivate confidence and leadership abilities among female participants, preparing them for traditionally male-dominated roles in positions of authority within daily operations.

Christina, aged 34, exemplifies the success of these programs. After eight years as a tea harvester, she was recognized for her diligence and commitment, and promoted to the position of a Field Supervisor. Reflecting on her journey, Christina shares, "I come from a traditional community with people believing that there are certain kinds of work that women can do, and others that only men should. But with the support and training from Browns Plantations and encouragement from my friends and family, I've risen to a position where I now supervise the harvesting, and ensure that my team is able to perform. I’m proud to be among the first few in my estate to be able to take on this role."

Shifting Power Dynamics

Christina's story highlights a tangible shift in power dynamics within the plantation workforce. She now actively advocates for women's welfare, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed. This empowerment extends beyond the professional realm, fostering a sense of agency among women that permeates their personal lives and communities.

Browns Plantations' support goes beyond professional development. The company provides essential amenities like quarters with electricity and water, and Childhood Development Centers staffed by qualified child development officers. These facilities are crucial for working mothers, supporting them to balance their careers and family commitments.

Diverse Opportunities and Inclusive Evaluation

The women who have undergone Browns' training are now being assigned various job roles, including administrative officers, clerks, field assistants, family welfare officers, child development officers, and support roles within tea factories. Their educational backgrounds range from primary education to A/Ls to Diplomas, with Browns also evaluating workers based on their skills rather than formal qualifications. This inclusive approach ensures that talent is recognized and nurtured, regardless of formal education levels.

Sureni Dilrukshika, a junior assistant field officer, shares her transformative experience with Browns Plantations. "Because of the comprehensive training and mentorship that I was provided, I started to become more confident in my own ability to lead a team and today, I oversee around 70 people," she says. Sureni's journey underscores the company's commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for advancement.

A Testimony of Commitment

Priyanthi, an Assistant Superintendent at one of the estates, is another testament to Browns Plantations' dedication to employee well-being. Rising through the ranks, Priyanthi appreciates the career growth and support provided by the company. "We are proud to be part of a company that truly dedicated to taking care of its employees, particularly women. The support, training, and encouragement highlight a collective commitment to ensuring a nurturing environment for all workers," she remarks.

The impact of Browns Plantations' initiatives extends beyond individual success stories. As women take on higher-paying and more authoritative roles, their increased income contributes to the economic upliftment of their families and communities. The presence of women in leadership positions challenges traditional gender roles and promotes gender equality within the community, encouraging other sectors to adopt similar practices. Empowered and well-trained workers are more productive and efficient, leading to better overall performance for the plantations, higher quality tea, and increased profitability. 

Moreover, the amenities and support provided by Browns Plantations, such as medical facilities and child care, improve the overall well-being of the community, ensuring that the benefits of empowerment are felt widely. Women like Christina, Sureni, and Priyanthi serve as role models and mentors for others in the community, inspiring them to pursue their ambitions and break free from traditional constraints, demonstrating that gender disparities can be overcome and opportunities seized through perseverance and determination.

As women like Christina, Sureni, and Priyanthi continue to challenge stereotypes and exceed expectations, their stories inspire countless others in the plantation workforce. Their experiences demonstrate that gender disparities can be overcome, and opportunities seized through perseverance and determination. Christina's declaration resonates across the industry: "There is no such thing as a man's job!"

The transformation led by Browns Plantations is a beacon of hope and progress in the Sri Lankan tea industry, illustrating how targeted initiatives and genuine commitment to gender equality can bring about significant and lasting change.