Prop Pilot. I have one question for you. Have the people that have given you that advice, worked in Maun?
I worked in check-in and departures for 2 and a half years, a role that is predominantly crewed by females and gay males. Was it held against me? Pretty sure it wasn't.
Sure things are pretty "old school" in southern africa and there are a few silly ideals around... But nothing that retarded.
If anything it shows that you have and idea of what goes on in the aviation world and a hunger to be in it.