A 21-year-old woman is hoping to inspire more women to take up fishing after she was named trainee fisherman of the year. Brooke Lamond, from Glasnakille in South Skye, started going out on fishing boats with her dad when she was just eight-years-old. She lost interest when she went into secondary school, but decided to give it another go in November when a family friend offered her a job on a boat catching shellfish. Brooke said she still called herself a "fisherman", adding: "I feel like that's the name of the job role." She told BBC Radio'sGood Morning Scotland programme: "I wouldn't want that to change just because I'm a woman, it's almost emphasising the point that it's a woman doing it. "I would definitely say 'fisherman' is my title." And despite doubters saying she wouldn't manage the role in a male-dominated industry, she came top in the category for the Fishing News Awards. Brooke said: "It's nice to be able to say 'I can do that and it doesn't matter that I'm a woman, it doesn't matter who you are'. "I've had that attitude since I was young. My dad's disabled so he's always been looked at like 'surely he can't do fishing'. "It was quite difficult listening to people saying I wasn't going to manage it. But I knew in my head that I could." As the granddaughter of a boatbuilder and daughter of a fisherman, Brooke grew up very familiar with the water. She told BBC Scotland News how she spent her childhood helping her dad on his mobile trawler. "My dad's been fishing for over 40 years now, so I suppose I always had it in me," she said. "Because of the fishing he does, we would stay away for days at a time, sometimes a week. "It was good because it was time I could spend with him. It's very different to the fishing I'm doing now." However Brooke was unsure about committing to the fishing industry as she got older. "When you go to high school, your idea of what you want to do changes because there's so much going on," she said. "I needed a job through the winter last year and I never thought that fishing was going to be an option for me, but it just fell into place and it worked quite well." Family friend and local skipper James Robertson suggested she should try her hand at creel fishing on his boat off Elgol. "At the beginning it was really tough because I was the only woman down here," she said. "And my back was quite bad. "But you get used to it very quickly because you're doing it day in, day out. "As long as the weather is on your side then you're doing it as often as you can." During the 12 hour shifts on the water, the pair catch prawns, lobsters and brown crab which is then taken to a local factory and shipped off to places like Spain and France. Now Brooke fishes in the winter and spends the summers months helping out on boat tours around Skye. "I like the pattern I'm in," she said. "Even thought it's bitterly cold and the weather's not great in the wintertime, it's still enjoyable for me." And she hopes to see other women succeeding in the industry. "The most important thing for me is that people know women are out fishing," she said. "And you need more men like James who wouldn't think twice about taking women on, because a lot of men aren't like that and still think it's a man's job." Like many young people on Skye, Brooke plans to keep her seasonal working pattern. "If I could, a skippers ticket would be quite cool to have," she said. "I've not really made any set plans. I did a gel and BIAB [builder gel in a bottle] nail course the other month, I'm really interested in beauty as well. "Fishing is weather-dependent, so maybe on my off days I could do beauty. "I do what I enjoy and I'm not putting any pressure on myself."
'Fisherman' is my job - even though I'm a woman
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Young Woman Named Trainee Fisherman of the Year Aims to Inspire Others"
Bbc News
7.2
TruthLens AI Summary
Brooke Lamond, a 21-year-old woman from Glasnakille in South Skye, has made waves in the fishing industry after being named trainee fisherman of the year. Her journey began at the tender age of eight, when she first accompanied her father on fishing trips. Although she lost interest during her secondary school years, a chance opportunity to work on a boat catching shellfish reignited her passion for the profession. Brooke proudly identifies as a 'fisherman,' emphasizing that her gender should not alter the title of her job. She believes that using the term 'fisherman' highlights the fact that women can succeed in traditionally male-dominated roles. Despite facing skepticism about her capabilities, Brooke's determination led her to excel in her field, proving that gender does not dictate one's ability to perform in such roles.
Brooke's background in fishing is deeply rooted in family tradition, with her grandfather being a boatbuilder and her father an experienced fisherman. Growing up, she spent considerable time assisting her father on his mobile trawler, which fostered a strong connection to the water. Initially uncertain about pursuing a career in fishing, Brooke found herself drawn back to it when a local skipper, James Robertson, encouraged her to try creel fishing. Her experience has not been without challenges, as she was often the only woman on the boat and faced physical demands that tested her resilience. However, she has found fulfillment in her work, catching seafood for local markets and embracing the seasonal nature of the job. With aspirations to inspire more women in the industry, Brooke hopes to demonstrate that fishing is not solely a man's profession. She envisions a future where more women participate and succeed in fishing, while also considering potential side careers in beauty, reflecting her diverse interests and commitment to doing what she loves.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the journey of Brooke Lamond, a young woman who is breaking stereotypes in the fishing industry. Her recognition as trainee fisherman of the year serves as a powerful example of how individuals can challenge traditional gender roles, particularly in male-dominated sectors. This narrative aims to inspire other women to pursue careers in fields they may have been discouraged from entering.
Purpose of the Publication
The primary goal of this news piece is to shed light on gender equality in the workplace, especially in industries like fishing that have historically been male-dominated. By showcasing Brooke’s accomplishments and her determination to embrace the title "fisherman," the article seeks to encourage women to pursue their interests and careers without feeling constrained by societal expectations.
Public Perception and Impact
This news aims to foster a positive perception of women in non-traditional roles, potentially motivating other women and girls to consider careers in fishing or similar fields. By emphasizing Brooke's success amidst skepticism, the article promotes a message of resilience and capability, countering doubts about women's abilities in physically demanding jobs.
Omission of Broader Context
While the article focuses on Brooke’s personal story, it may overlook broader systemic issues that women face in the fishing industry, such as lack of support, equality in pay, and workplace safety concerns. By not addressing these challenges, the article may inadvertently simplify the complexities of gender equality in the workforce.
Manipulative Elements
The tone of the article is largely empowering, which is effective in promoting a positive narrative. However, the framing may gloss over the challenges many women face in similar situations. The language used is celebratory, which can elicit strong emotional responses, potentially overshadowing critical discussions about gender biases that still exist in the industry.
Trustworthiness of the Information
The article appears credible as it is based on Brooke’s real experiences and achievements. The positive framing and the focus on her accomplishments lend it authenticity. However, the lack of critical analysis regarding the challenges faced by women in the fishing industry might limit its overall reliability in providing a complete picture.
Societal and Economic Implications
The implications of this story could extend beyond personal empowerment, potentially influencing public policy regarding gender equality in the workplace. If more women are inspired to join the fishing industry, it could lead to shifts in labor demographics, economic contributions, and discussions around women’s rights in various sectors.
Target Audience
The article is likely to resonate with women, particularly young women, and those interested in gender equality. It may also appeal to fishing communities and organizations advocating for diversity and inclusion in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Market Influence
While this story may not directly affect stock markets or specific financial instruments, it does contribute to a broader narrative about workforce diversity. Companies focused on gender equality may see increased interest or investment as societal attitudes shift.
Geopolitical Relevance
On a larger scale, the story of Brooke Lamond connects to global discussions on gender equality and women’s rights, which are increasingly relevant in contemporary discourse. It reflects ongoing efforts to challenge traditional roles and promote inclusivity in various fields.
Use of AI in Article Composition
There is no clear indication that AI was used in composing this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have influenced the framing of Brooke's story to emphasize empowerment and resilience, steering the narrative towards a more inspirational tone.
In summary, while the article presents an inspiring story that celebrates a woman’s achievements in a male-dominated field, it could benefit from a more nuanced discussion of the challenges and barriers that remain. The overall message is positive, aiming to inspire change and encourage women to pursue careers in areas where they have historically faced obstacles.