Downfourgreen, I think I've been in that situation here in the US as a white male....watching females and minorities get hired over me...
I recall seven years ago as a 727 Captain, flying with a 25 year girl with 1200 hours, and an extremely patient ex eastern guy on the panel.
When I tried to feel out the First Officers backround, she said "I've earned my job here, I flew night freight for a year."
The Engineer said "Too bad my two tours in Vietnam didn't help me get a job......."