Hazel thrives in a male dominated career

THIS Women’s Month, we pay homage to Working on Fire’s fire fighter and crew leader, Hazel Mchunu (33), who has broken the chains of traditional stereotyping to thrive in a career dominated by men.

Hazel was born in Vryheid and grew up in the Bhekuzulu New Location. As a child, she enjoyed playing soccer and was only truly happy when she had an opportunity to be physically active.

After matriculating, Hazel enrolled for a course in electrical engineering but dropped out after falling pregnant with her first child.

“After my baby was born, I started working as a waitress, in order to be able contribute financially toward the household, but I knew that I didn’t want to do this forever. I was eager to progress,” said Hazel.

“I heard that Working on Fire was recruiting fire fighters from a friend and decided to try it out. Even though the physical assessment, which included running, sit-ups, push-ups, etc, was strenuous, I did really well. I passed the interview and, after being offered the post I was sent for rigorous training, which involved marching on foot on rough terrain for 40km at a time, holding fire beaters.”

Hazel has now been a fire fighter for ten years and has progressed to crew leader (type 2). She admits that her heart still pounds whenever she gets a call-out,

“As a crew leader, it means that I now have to command men. It means that I have to raise my voice to give the men on my squad instructions and correct them when they are wrong,” says Hazel.

As a Zulu woman, raised to always act respectfully toward men, and to be passive and meek in the company of men, giving a man an order did not come naturally to Hazel.

“I had to tell myself that this is my job. I am in a position of authority and I have a responsibility to give commands. I gained a lot of confidence in myself after having to stand before the entire squad and give instructions. I am proud, brave and strong. Things are different in today’s world. Women are free. We can do whatever we want to do.

“My message to other women is to believe in themselves, and be strong. No matter what job you get, believe that you can do it,” concluded Hazel.

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