Hello and welcome to Business Daily Meets from the BBC World Service. I'm Sam Fennick.

Today we meet three remarkable women who have ascended to the boardroom in industries known for their macho culture.

First we meet Anna Moreske Daniele, the CEO of a global steel company who discusses leading in a male-dominated environment.

The gender gap is a significant issue.

Why?

First of all, because we are a Christian country, a Catholic country,

and culturally high position are for men.

Carol Maseveh shares her story of launching a construction business in

Johannesburg. Her company, which is 100% female owned, is paving the way for women in the industry.

Just like any other young girl out there out to explore what they can be and achieve in life.

When I chose the route of engineering,

I wanted to prove to myself that engineering was just not for men.

And finally, we meet Patty Ead,

who has built a successful career in the Middle East's oil and gas industry.

Assumptions made as I'm the assistant of the boss coming in to negotiate an

agreement. International Women's Day has been observed for over a century, yet many challenges

continue to hinder women's advancement. Today on Business Daily, we'll explore the reasons

behind these persistent issues and discuss potential solutions to help women and girls achieve their career aspirations.

So let's get to know our guests. Anna Marek-Danieli is one of the few top female executives in the steel industry.

She's vice-chairman of the steel-making division and a major Italian engineering company,

Danielli. The company was founded by her grandfather in 1914.

But Anna's not the first woman to hold the post of chairman.

...