At 24 years old, Marlen Miladys Sánchez Pérez has shown that vocation, courage, and determination can overcome stereotypes, as she is one of the two women in the Provincial Fire Command of Granma. For the past six years, she has dedicated her life to fighting fires, saving lives, and breaking barriers in an environment historically dominated by men.
Her story was shared this weekend on Facebook by Roberto Mesa Matos, who emphasized the commitment, preparation, and inner strength that define this young woman from Granma.
“Physical strength comes from the will and the desire to help people at risk. I have a strong spirit, from the heart,” said the young woman in statements quoted by Mesa.
Sánchez initially joined the Women's Volunteer Service with the hope of gaining access to a university degree through a position in Order 18.
However, she was assigned to the Bayamo Fire Department, and there was born what she describes as an irrevocable passion.
He started as a telephone operator and soon decided to stay, even though at first his parents did not look favorably upon his decision.
Today, she combines her job as a crew chief at the Bayamo Command with her studies in Fire Safety and Protection Engineering in Havana.
"I work for 45 days and then go to the capital for 25 days," he shared. "It's more about theory, but it's essential for practice."
Acknowledge that fear is part of the job: “Anyone who says they haven’t felt it isn’t really a firefighter. Firefighters aren’t heroes; we’re human beings. We experience fear, but we know how to control it.”
His testimony also reveals the high emotional impact of certain interventions: he especially recalls a fire in Mariel, where an elderly man lost almost everything except for his bicycle.
Regarding the environment among colleagues, she asserts that, beyond gender, firefighters are like a family: "They respect me. Sometimes I feel like the mother hen or the aunt. We all help each other."
Sánchez also delivered a clear message to the public: “A fire can always be avoided,” and to those who wish to become firefighters: “This is not just about throwing water. You have to study, prepare, analyze in seconds, and act responsibly.”
For years, Cuban women have challenged traditional gender roles. In Havana, for example, Yanelis Rodríguez Reyes made history by becoming the first female electrical lineman, defying gender stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated environment.
From climbing poles to lifting transformers, he approached the physical tasks of the trade with determination, demonstrating that willpower and preparation can overcome brute strength.
In the transportation sector, Idania Perea León has stood out as the first female driver at the National Bus Company. With over two decades of experience behind the wheel, she has faced the inherent machismo of the industry and earned the respect of her colleagues through her professionalism.
In Sancti Spíritus, María Isabel Rodríguez Benítez made her mark as a lineman of group 4, demonstrating that skill, commitment, and self-confidence are qualities sufficient to successfully meet the demands of this work.
Her aspiration is not only professional but also inspiring: to motivate other women to conquer workspaces where they were not previously welcomed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marlen Sánchez and the Firefighters in Cuba
Who is Marlen Miladys Sánchez Pérez and what is her role in the Provincial Fire Command of Granma?
Marlen Miladys Sánchez Pérez is one of the two women who are part of the Provincial Fire Command of Granma. At 24 years old, she has dedicated six years of her life to fighting fires and saving lives, challenging stereotypes in a predominantly male environment.
How has Marlen Sánchez managed to balance her work as a firefighter with her engineering studies?
Marlen Sánchez balances her work as a team leader at the Bayamo Fire Command with her studies in Fire Safety Engineering in Havana. She works for 45 days and then travels to the capital for 25 days to continue her studies. This organization allows her to apply the theory she learns in her studies to her daily work as a firefighter.
What message does Marlen Sánchez convey about fire prevention?
Marlen Sánchez emphasizes that "a fire can always be prevented." Her experience in the field leads her to urge the public to take precautions and be prepared, highlighting the importance of prevention and responsibility in fire protection.
What is the work environment like for Marlen at the Bayamo Fire Command?
Marlen describes the work environment at the Fire Command as a family. Beyond gender, she feels the respect and support of her colleagues, ensuring that everyone helps one another. Sometimes she feels like the "mother hen" or the "aunt," which emphasizes the spirit of camaraderie among the firefighters.
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