The attitude towards “different” people is changing step by step, although the lack of tolerance for such is still present. The tight-knit community of the Kaunas University of Applied Sciences Tolerance Initiative “Respect & Support” is not afraid to stand out: they bravely accept various challenges, break stereotypes and desire to achieve much more. They vocally challenge the deeply ingrained beliefs, awaken the desire to disregard stereotypes and learn about a person regardless of their age, gender, skin colour, origin, social status, religion, sexual orientation.

Acquirement of the right to vote, make decisions independently, more active participation in public life and the labour market – that is all remembered as the changes in the roles of women in society in the 20^th century. Although women of recent generations tend to successfully create a balance between family life and climbing the career ladder, and men feel more encouraged to open up about emotional difficulties, it is still can be heard that professions, lifestyles and hobbies fall into only the “masculine” or “feminine” categories. Gabrielė Vaičiulytė, a student of the Applied Communication study programme at the Faculty of Business of Kaunas University of Applied Sciences, is also beating these stereotypes by volunteering at the Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces.

Tell us more about what you do as a volunteer.

I have been serving in the Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces for three years now: I have to do both shooting, tactical hiking and tactical medicine. At the moment, I engage myself in only just these types of activities, as I am still a student.

What motivated you to get involved in such activities?

Nationality and citizenship encouraged me to get involved in these activities. I had been a member of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union for twelve years, and when I turned 18 years old, I thought I wanted to continue my service. I also considered a position in the Lithuanian military. However, I wanted a broader perspective rather than devoting my life to the armed forces only, so I stayed in the Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces.

In your opinion, is there still a noticeable segmentation of work positions between men and women in society?

There is still a perception that some jobs are “masculine” and others are “feminine”. It is often perceived stereotypically that only women can work in the field of beauty and that men have to take a job that requires more psychical strength. Since I am in the military, I hear very often that this is not the place for me. I also hear very often that I don’t belong here.

What do you think could help to beat these stereotypes?

I think there isn’t one exact way to effectively beat these stereotypes. In my opinion, society needs to be educated more to spread awareness. All work positions should be valued equally and not depend on a specific gender.

What does gender equality mean to you?

For me, gender equality means that we are like one undivided person: we should not be limited to jobs according to gender, behaviour, or ideologies. We should all be equal.

Have you encountered the prevailing stereotypes in society about the rights and responsibilities of men and women? How did you react to that?

From my own experience, I can only confirm that there are prevailing stereotypes, especially in the military. I hear sceptical questions not only from the people around me but also from colleagues: “What are you going to do in the military? Only men gather there,” “You can’t carry a machine gun, why are doing here?” However, I believe that a person with a specific goal is needed everywhere and can use the potential one hundred percent. My strength is my persistence – if I start something, I also want to complete it. I am convinced that by putting in the effort, one can always achieve a target goal and be as worthwhile as someone of the other gender doing the same work.

Do you have an authority figure in your field?

The head of my department is a great example for me – he has also graduated and is now in the army and holds the rank of lieutenant. It’s a significant incentive for me to be able to achieve everything if you’re persistent.

What else would you like to add?

Don’t give up and don’t listen if people tell you that it is necessary to work in one or another specific field because you’re a woman or a man. You can choose the work according to your individual needs and interests, the most important thing is to put the effort and pursue it.