Grace Ashiru
In the ever-changing landscape of business, women in South Africa are not only shattering barriers but also establishing new benchmarks for success.
As we approach the conclusion of Women’s Month, we highlight seven remarkable women who have shattered the glass ceiling and the invaluable wisdom they impart.
Through their unwavering determination, creative thinking, and resilience, these pioneering business leaders have forged influential spaces and positions of authority.
Their perspectives, shaped by years of experience, provide a guide for overcoming challenges and capitalizing on opportunities in the constantly evolving business environment.
Innovate Boldly: Embrace Your Feminine Power!
Women are recognized for their empathy, collaboration, and exceptional leadership qualities – but one word encapsulates all these attributes – Innovation.
Deirdre King, the Managing Director of Jacaranda FM, explains that historically, women have held very dynamic roles, albeit not in the boardroom. “Today, we are witnessing an increasing number of women claiming their seats at the executive table to leverage their diverse skill sets to drive innovation,” she states.
A notable example dates back to the 1960s, highlighting the contributions of Grace Hopper and Mary Wilkes to NASA’s space program. “These women made a significant impact in a predominantly male field with their dynamic abilities and their adaptability to new technologies. This adaptability is especially crucial as we navigate the daily changes and emerging technologies that surround us,” Deirdre adds.
Deirdre further elaborates that innovation also entails originality and the capacity for new ideas to address problems through a creative perspective. “For instance, Jacaranda FM faced a challenge – ‘How do we make Women’s Month meaningful?’ The solution emerged from an informal brainstorming session with women leading the discussion through their insights. The competition not only rendered Women’s Month meaningful but also original and innovative,” she explains.
Celebrate Your Femininity!
Dynamic TV and radio personality, as well as a successful entrepreneur, Carol Ofori encourages women in business to recognize that embracing their femininity can lead to greater success, challenging the outdated belief that it is a weakness.
“What I realize is that we have been led to believe that our femininity is a disadvantage in the business realm. Once we comprehend our femininity and the strength it provides us in asserting ourselves in the workplace, we should fully embrace it,” she asserts.
Carol champions the idea that women should leverage the unique attributes that femininity offers—such as empathy, emotional intelligence, and humility—and transform them into strategic advantages in leadership roles.
By leading with these qualities, women can foster a more impactful and authentic presence in the business arena, showcasing that genuine power stems from embracing what sets them apart.
This approach not only questions traditional leadership standards but also creates an avenue for a more inclusive and compassionate business culture.
Break Free from Imposter Syndrome!
Imposter syndrome is a challenge that many individuals in the business realm grapple with, but Mandy Davis, co-managing director at the brand and communications agency Penguin, emphasizes the importance of not allowing these negative thoughts to hinder your progress toward your goals.
“Don’t be tempted to engage in imposter syndrome conversations with yourself. You are not defined by your position in the company or your business; you are defined by what you bring to the table,” Mandy stated.
She further stresses the significance of acknowledging your contributions and taking ownership of both your successes and your mistakes, as this is crucial for growth—particularly in the business environment.
Mandy believes that growth stems from learning from every experience, whether it is positive or negative, and making the necessary adjustments to enhance performance.
For women in business, adopting this mindset can cultivate resilience and promote ongoing personal and professional development.
Stay Adaptable, Stay Authentic!
In the constantly changing business environment, especially within the travel sector, adaptability is of utmost importance. Faziela Saheb, the Sales Manager at Air France-KLM Southern Africa, emphasizes that being flexible and open to change is essential for any woman navigating the business landscape. Whether it involves managing economic fluctuations, adjusting to evolving customer behaviors, or reacting to unexpected global events, the capacity to pivot swiftly is crucial.
“The travel industry has taught me that nothing is ever set in stone. By remaining flexible and welcoming change, we can transform challenges into opportunities,” Faziela stated. She asserts that flexibility not only aids in overcoming hurdles but also enables professionals to capitalize on new opportunities as they emerge. Nonetheless, she highlights the significance of authenticity: “In the process of adapting, it’s vital to stay true to who you are. The world is diverse, and each of us brings unique perspectives and strengths to the table. Embracing what makes you distinctive is not only empowering but also essential for making a lasting impact in your industry. Balancing flexibility with authenticity is a guaranteed formula for success.”
The Unifying Strength of Women in Business
Taryn Duveen, the Head of Operations at Blok, a property development company in Cape Town, asserts that the unique perspectives and qualities that women contribute to businesses can unlock innovative ways of working.
“We need to concentrate on uniting women, supporting one another, and excelling in our careers.” She highlights that women possess an innate talent for connecting people and processes—an empowering trait in both personal and professional realms, which brings women to the forefront.
“I believe that now more than ever, women are embracing their femininity alongside this superpower and integrating it into the workplace. Our role as women in business is crucial for shaping how organizations operate and for laying the groundwork for future generations,” she remarked.
Embrace Generosity: Boost Your Business by Offering Value for Free
Manuela Dias de Deus, the Founder and Managing Director of One-eyed Jack and the visionary behind the DStv Content Creator Awards, shares a distinctive viewpoint on cultivating business relationships through the principle of generosity. She has found that offering something for free can yield significant long-term benefits.
“Whether it’s providing a complimentary consultation, sharing a resource like a whitepaper or a guide, or even offering a piece of my intellectual property; the act of giving fosters connections,” Manuela explains. While there is always the possibility that a potential client might take the advice and try to implement it on their own, Manuela believes that showcasing a genuine willingness to assist—whether through a free strategy session, a sample project, or hosting a knowledge-sharing event—helps to build trust.
This trust frequently develops into enduring relationships, where clients not only return with additional work but also place greater value on the partnership. By prioritizing generosity and authenticity, Manuela has discovered that what you give often comes back in unexpected and rewarding ways. She encourages women in business to embrace this approach by finding ways to provide value that aligns with their strengths and areas of expertise.
Manuela emphasizes that this strategy establishes a reputation for being both generous and highly capable, which can be especially effective in industries where relationships and trust are essential.
Harnessing Social Media: A Gateway to Learning and Inspiration from Others
While gaining access to spaces traditionally dominated by men is vital, it is equally important to transform these environments to better accommodate women. Deshnie Govender, a prominent figure in the South African marketing and culture landscape, emphasizes the importance of leveraging social media as a platform for sharing professional journeys and encouraging other women to do the same.
By documenting both successes and challenges online, female professionals have the ability to inspire and empower others who encounter similar obstacles, thereby creating a ripple effect of support and progress.
“As women, we can’t just aim to have a seat at the table; we need the freedom to arrange it as we desire. We work tirelessly to enter rooms that are not designed for us, but that’s only half the battle,” she states.
“This is why it is crucial that we continually engage with social media to share our journeys, so that we can inspire other women facing similar situations.”
