Judaline Cassidy: Fighting Gender Discrimination at Tools and Tiaras Inc.

Judaline Cassidy became one of the first three women plumbers in Trinidad and Tobago, and her ongoing female empowerment work in the male-dominated field of trades has brightened the sets of Megyn Kelly TODAY, MAKERS and much more, and inspired platforms such as Amy Poehler’s ‘Smart Girls’.

Name and occupation:

Judaline Cassidy, Plumber / Founder of Tools & Tiaras Inc.

Describe the work you’re doing to fight discrimination against women:

I have always considered myself to be part of the struggle to fight discrimination against women and girls since I was a little girl. I always reject the notion that girls are less qualified at anything.

We fight gender discrimination at Tools & Tiaras by exposing, inspiring and mentoring girls and women about jobs within the construction industry, while teaching that the construction industry does not have a gender. If I can do it being a woman of color, immigrant, and 4’ 11 7/8 you certainly can do it.

What do you love most about being a woman?

This question stumped me. Really, I love being a women because I belong to a sisterhood that is always the architects of change. Women are always on the forefront of the resistance and that rocks. I also love the fact that we have awesome shoes to choose from.

Have you had to deal with much sexism in your industry?

Yes I have, and like most women this is something that we all come up against; but I firmly believe in showing up and swinging back when it happens. It’s such a delicate balance knowing when to swing or go for the homer, and I can’t help myself – I always go for the home run.

Do you belong to any organizations catered to women business owners?

Yes I do. My nonprofit organization Tools & Tiaras Inc and the Women’s Building NYC. Almost all the companies that we use are women-owned companies. It’s an international decision that we make, it’s difficult sometimes, but it so worth it. Women do 66% of the world’s work and produce about 50% of the food that we consume. Yet, women only get 10% of the income and only own 1% of the property. This is why I support and encourage others to support women-owned businesses.

Who or what inspires you most?

Women and girls are my inspiration. Every woman I meet who stands up for injustice and inequality gives me the drive to jump out of the plane comfortably.

Something about you that would surprise us:

Cake is my kryptonite, seriously. If I could eat it every day as much as I want without blossoming to 170 pounds plus, I would.

Advice for women entrepreneurs:

Always remember that you cannot lose something you never had. Just ask, and if the answer is no, you didn’t lose anything because you didn’t have it to begin with. Just ask, if it yes – you’ll gain something. If it’s a no, then today’s no is tomorrow’s yes.

Website and social media links: