This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Ambassador to Switzerland Sankie Mthembi-Mahanyele. We reflect on some of her career milestones, from working with the ruling African National Congress in exile and returning home to continue that work and shape South Africa into a democratic country. We discuss aspects of her current role emphasising foreign investment, research, innovation and science as well as applying start-up know-how to assist the Small Micro, Medium Enterprise sector in South Africa. We engage on some equality challenges that women still have to contend with, such as patriarchy. At the same time, we consider interventions to help change society through socialisation and leaning on South Africa’s constitution as a guiding framework. In terms of building female leadership we remark on establishing mentor-mentee programmes to help women navigate their respective career paths. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to member of parliament, Nomsa Marchesi from the Democratic Alliance. She serves on the portfolio committee of Higher Education, Science and Technology. We address the role of a country’s education systems, not just from the view of knowledge gain, the ability to access the job market and contribute to the nation’s economy, but also from the perspective of producing socially conscious citizens that understand their impact on society and the responsibilities they have towards their communities.Marchesi reflects on her own education, as a student of the 80s, post the 1976 uprising, and the eventual subject choices she made, not from personal volition but from the influence of wise elders who prevented her from studying career limiting topics. We remark on women leading their families and directing subsequent generations to better themselves. We discuss some of the responsibilities of parliament members in terms of addressing their constituents’ needs and bringing female voices to platforms that are intended to drive change. Yet, although South Africa has an abundance of positive policies that are designed to improve the wellbeing of women and open equal opportunities, implementation of paper rhetoric still remains a challenge. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Ntombizozuko (Zozo) Dyani-Mhango, who is a Professor in the Department of Jurisprudence, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria and inaugural fellow of the Pan African Scientific Research Council.Dyani-Mhango describes three critical functions in her portfolio: teaching, research and academic citizenship.She highlights her research on international criminal justice in Africa, where she considers African Union member states’ obligations for international crimes, the power struggles between the African Union and International Criminal Court, and South Africa’s obligations to hold perpetrators accountable.We acknowledge the tremendous role that women play in peace, justice and security. We note the need for more women to be more involved in negotiations and occupy leadership positions.Considering the South African context and COVID-19 we unpack some of the challenges faced by students learning online, such as: lack of data, adequate privacy to attend class, and the ability to engage.In light of this point we debate if access to the Internet should be a human right.Dyani-Mhango shares aspects of the Pan African Scientific Research Council as an institution to bring together African researchers and Africa focussed research. We discuss the lack of women at the top of academic hierarchies and the foundations that female academics are laying to make the journey easier for upcoming women in their fields. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s High Commissioner to Canada, Sibongiseni Dlamini-Mntambo.We discuss feminisation of government services across the globe and increasing the ratio of female to male diplomats.In part, this trend takes consideration of the changing nature of diplomacy and international relations which now tends to address common global interest issues, such as climate change, human rights and sustainable development.We consider some of the duties of diplomats and skills needed to perform in this role through a stakeholder management lens, emphasising capabilities of communication, negotiation and influence.The High Commissioner remarks on some of the achievements during her tenure, which include developing academic collaborations, progressing shared expertise and lifting trade bans on importing South African wine.We acknowledge the challenges and obstacles that women still need to overcome to rise in their disciplines of choice and remind women to keep opening spaces for other women to reduce gender inequality.Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Member of Parliament, Liezl Van der Merwe from the Inkatha Freedom Party. She serves on several parliament committees, namely: Multi-Party Women's Caucus; Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs; Portfolio Committee on Social Development; Joint Committee on Ethics and Members Interests. Although there is parity representation of women in most committees, which successfully voice issues relating to women, the real question is are those voices translating to real change for women on the ground? The Department of Social Development’s South African Social Security Agency heavily impacts on women through poverty alleviation programmes. For example in rural areas 70% of households are female headed. We discuss the issue of gender mainstreaming expenditure with respect to fiscal budgets as a tool to accelerate change to benefit women. Van der Merwe cites two examples: the poor rollout of free sanitary pads to girls, which would help ensure their continued education and reduce dropout rates, and the chronic underfunding of women’s shelters, where women and children seek refuge from abuse, which may receive as little as R5 per day per person in contrast to prisons receiving R550 per prisoner, who may be perpetrators of domestic violence. There is an imbalance in the way that government disburses funds on gender empowerment projects. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Member of Parliament, Thandiswa Marawu from the African Transformation Movement. She serves on several parliament commitees, namely: Multi-Party Women's Caucus; Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation; Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; and Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Our conversation raises the issue of consequence management to drive implementation of government mandates. We remark on the negative impact Covid-19 has had on political affairs, particularly when it comes to community engagement, and the regression of employment and poverty alleviation strategies. We also discuss connecting to women in rural areas and ensuring they are empowered with knowledge of their rights and actions to take when these are violated. Marawu also shares her journey into politics, triggered by the injustices of apartheid and undignified treatment of her mother, with the ambition to transform societies and structures for the better. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Member of Parliament and National Chairperson of Economic Freedom Fighters, Ntombovuyo Veronica Mente. She serves on the Standing Committee of the Auditor General and Standing Committee of Public Accounts. Mente emphasises the importance of not just speaking about issues that affect women, but taking effective action. Pertinent areas requiring attention include gender-based violence, unemployment, lack of empowerment and adequate resources to safeguard women. Whilst government has a responsibility to support institutions that enable and protect women, women cannot be complacent, they must empower themselves and consciously seek out or create opportunities to fulfil their ambitions. Mente further reflects on growing up under the influence of her fierce feminist of a grandmother, as well as her journey into politics with a core motivation to bring about meaningful change.

In Womanity-Women in Unity this week, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka chats to Member of Parliament (MP), Heloïse Denner from the Freedom Front Plus. She serves on the Portfolio Committee for Employment and Labour. Denner shares some of the responsibilities associated with being an MP, emphasising oversight of government departments and being able to make a real difference in people’s lives. We further discuss the high unemployment rate in South Africa, officially at 32.5%, and the slow progress of government as well as current policies to create jobs. In terms of female empowerment, women need to have adequate access to education and employment. The opportunities that women have today were built off the actions of strong women and men that have gone before us. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Member of Parliament, Nazley Sharif, from the Democratic Alliance.She serves on the portfolio committees of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus and Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. Our discussion with her also reflects on Freedom Day, which is commemorated on April 27.The conversation touches on Freedom Day commemorations yet some communities are still discriminated against, for example the oppression of women, which leaves them out of the economic circle. We discuss some of the platforms in parliament that aim to progress women’s agendas, such as the multiparty women’s caucus. In our discussion on gender-based violence and femicide, we consider how government institutions need to be held to account and fulfil targets that have been set across the entire system. Over 90% of sexual offences in South Africa are committed against women and it is estimated that almost 30% of these crimes go unreported. In the 10 years period (2008-2018) 584 497 sexual offences were reported to the South African Police Services. Listen to Sharif’s views on the issues…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Elizabeth Makhatha, who is head of the Engineering Metallurgy Department in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at the University of Johannesburg. Makhatha walks us through her career journey, starting from humble beginnings fueled by dreams, hope and faith to turn her early curiosity into becoming a material scientist. She shares some of the important research projects underway in the department, which have strong practical implications in industry from the automotive sector to the mining industry and health space. She shares some of her views to encourage greater participation of women in STEM subjects. We discuss women in leadership and factors that contribute to equality and female empowerment. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Fiona Tregenna who holds the DST/NRF South African Research Chair in Industrial Development, and is a Professor of Economics at the University of Johannesburg. Tregenna shares how her commitment to social justice stemming from early activism and interest in politics motivated her to pursue her studies in economics with real world implications. The economic domain is a fundamental pillar in productive societies. We discuss aspects of her research, which focusses on structural change, deindustrialisation and industrial development and apply it in the context of the African continent and women’s empowerment. She notes one of the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area through regional and continental integration is building up economies of scale through porous borders. Attaining gender equality requires a multi-pronged approach, which interconnects factors such as: legal, economic, cultural and economics. Tregenna reminds us that structuring of fiscal budgets and prioritizing gender mainstreaming within government departments across local and national spheres is one mechanism that can help accelerate change towards gender equality for faster gains. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Hanneke Takkenberg, who is Co-Executive Director of the Erasmus Centre for Women and Organisations (ECWO) at Rotterdam School of Management at Erasmus University. She is also a Clinical Epidemiologist and Professor of Clinical Decision-making in Cardiothoracic Interventions at the Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery in Erasmus University Medical Centre.Additionally, she chairs the Dutch Network for Women Professors board, which consists of a network of over 1 300 women professors and associate professors. We discuss gender stereotyping and the influence this has on perceptions of leaders, which exerts a limiting effect on women’s advancement in the workplace. Some of the research ECWO is undertaking to help empower women to drive their careers forward includes network analysis, aimed to teach women to more effectively navigate both visible and invisible organisational networks; and advocacy and awareness raising, which focuses on listed companies, specifically the composition of boards and representation of women as well as imaging and language utilised by these entities. We also consider other factors that contribute to gender imbalances in organisations, such as hierarchy, remuneration, non-financial benefits, promotion, culture and social safety. Takkenberg reminds us that women are generally under-represented across the spectrum and to help address this gap colleagues should use opportunities to support and help amplify women’s voices. Here’s her take…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Helena Barnard who heads up the doctoral programme at the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science. We consider the importance of building world class research institutions in Africa specifically, as opposed to out-of-continent countries, that focus on understanding business and management in Africa. Business management is a social science and therefore is influenced and shaped by societies with variable cultural contexts. We consider some of the business research projects that have been undertaken by scholars in the continent, for example in Zimbabwe understanding the DNA of firm’s that thrive in spite of turbulent conditions, and in Kenya the challenges experienced by entrepreneurs returning from the diaspora. We highlight the empowering effects of education in the hands of women to develop and advance. In terms of reducing inequality Prof. Barnard reflects on the role of men to support and enable women. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Minister of Forestry and Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, Barbara Creecy. The Department’s mission is to provide leadership in environmental management, conservation and protection towards sustainability for the benefit of South Africans and the global community. Three core areas that the Department is addressing is biodiversity loss, sustainability and climate change; and unless society changes the way that we exploit our natural resources, human life as we know it is not sustainable. Minister Creecy shares some of the public employment programmes available for women in the restoration of ecosystems, and school outreach programmes designed to encourage girls to pursue science subjects and scientific careers. Minister Creecy reflects on her MEC role in the Gauteng Department of Education which initiated various programmes that radically improved matric performance rates. She emphasises the importance of allowing girls who fall pregnant to resume their schooling and complete their education. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, in recognition of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on the 8th of March, today’s series takes us around the world, to hear international voices of ambassadors and high commissioners from different countries that have featured on the show. The theme for International Women’s Day this year, is Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world. The Ambassador of Turkey to South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho - Elif Çomoğlu Ülgen, who highlights the power of women with respect to building societies by the way they raise their children. The Ambassador of Norway to South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Madagascar and Lesotho – Dr. Astrid Emilie Helle, shares insights into some characteristics of women leaders and perspectives of the nature of societies that chose women leaders as being nations that are equipped to handle a pandemic. The Ambassador of Mexico to South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauricio, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe – Ana Luisa Fajer walks us through highlights from the three main waves of the feminist movement and introduces Mexico’s feminist foreign policy, incidentally the first in Latin America. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, in recognition of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on the 8th of March, today’s series takes us around the world, to hear international voices of ambassadors and high commissioners from different countries that have featured on the show. The theme for International Women’s Day this year, is Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world. In today’s compilation we hear from the Ambassador of Ireland to the Republic of South Africa, Mauritius, Botswana, Kingdom of Lesotho and Zimbabwe - Fionnuala Gilsenan; the Ambassador of Senegal to the SADC region - Safiatou Ndiaye; and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Co-operation - Candith Mashego Dlamini. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Candith Mashego-Dlamini. We discuss the Department’s vision for an African continent that is prosperous, peaceful, democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and united and which contributes to a world that is just and equitable. We consider some of the programmes that are in place to support women. We discuss the African Continental Free Trade Area as a flagship project of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, to boost intra-Africa trade and enhance Africa’s industrialisation prospects. For example, developing capability to manufacture medical supplies from medication to equipment. We also discuss the development and economic costs of menstruation from the perspective of a) have access to sanitary protection and b) the expense of these items, noting how some markets have made these products exempt from tax, and other countries like New Zealand and Scotland offer these items free of charge. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture - Nocawe Mafu. We discuss the Department’s role in national building and social cohesion. We consider the integrated effects of various government departments working collectively to prevent gender based violence and femicide. Combating gender based violence and promoting women’s empowerment are critical performance areas within the governmental sphere. On a practical level Deputy Minister Mafu considers access to financial, technical training, mentorship and opening spaces in industry for women will contribute to gender equality and the empowerment of women. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. In the second part of this two part interview the Secretary General reflects on some of the pioneering work she has done to demonstrate the economic cost of domestic violence – extending across the public sector, loss of profitability to businesses, pain, injury and suffering. She emphasizes the importance of sharing lessons learnt, both successes and failures between Commonwealth nations to accelerate development amongst countries. She highlights examples of brilliant female leadership confronting COVID-19. The Secretary General shares some insights into her upbringing, as one of twelve children, born in Dominica, growing up in the East End of London, and rising above the odds to pursue her ambitions; demonstrating that things can and will change if we make them change, and remembering to recognize our individuality and our power to make a difference in this world if we choose to. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. In the first part of this two part interview, the Secretary General provides some context about the Commonwealth, describing it as an association of 54 independent and equal countries, comprising almost a third of the world’s population; emphasising that no country is greater than another and everything is done by consensus. We discuss the Commonwealth’s response to COVID-19 including a virtual platform dubbed the COVID-19 resource centre; its conscious and consistent outlook on women and women’s empowerment. The Commonwealth’s work on and eliminating domestic violence is encapsulated in its No More campaign. Domestic violence affects one in three women around the world and has both social and economic impact. For example, the Seychelles loses US$65million annually to violence against women and girls. Consider the economic opportunities that could be created in every country if violence against women was eliminated? Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Nicky Newton-King, who is the former CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and spent over two decades with the JSE in various positions. She played prominent roles in the transformation and modernisation of the Exchange with respect to gender, race and technology. Diversity should be treated as a competitive advantage, not a scorecard tick. She championed the idea of businesses being socially responsible entities, driving a new consciousness about corporates and how they do business to move towards more conscious capitalism. Leadership brings immense responsibility but also opportunity to direct change; and being at the helm of the JSE, the voice of the regulator is heard more broadly, people listen more intently and respond more readily. More recently, Ms Newton-King has been involved in the WOZA Matrics TV program, which took the initiative to make quality education content freely available to high schoolers in 2020 where the COVID-19 pandemic drastically disrupted the school year. Afterall education is the beginning of anybody’s ability to progress. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the African Union Commissioner for Human Resources, Science and Technology - Professor Sarah Mbi Enow Anyang Agbor. We discuss some of the strategies underway at the African Union to build the Africa we want by facilitating knowledge, building bridges and promoting human capital. Prof. Agbor highlights some of the mechanisms to encourage women’s development and their socio-economic contributions, such as the International Centre for the Education of Women and Girls; the African Women’s Leadership Network, and scholarships that are earmarked for female researchers to advance their discoveries. We remark on the roles of book smart and street smart education to holistically equip women for success. Prof. Agbor shares some of her success drivers – like teamwork, humility, discipline and establishing your personal vision and goals to aspire to. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs of Sierra Leone, Minister Manti Tarawalli who shares how her formative years led her to pursue a life of service and make a difference to the lives of people in Sierre Leone. To accelerate gender equality, we discuss the importance of demonstrating the benefits of gender equality to men, for them to understand that an empowered woman does not mean a disempowered man, it means a better socio-economic community. We also consider the role of women in power and Minister Tarawalli described Sierre Leone’s recently launched gender equality policy as a key milestone to ensure the gender equality doesn’t regress in the country. Part of this policy aims to increase women’s representation in politics to a minimum of 30%, to apply gender budgeting across government institutions and the creation of a fund for women entrepreneurs. Minister Tarawalli reminds us that women need to come together, to speak with one voice and urge their governments to make gender equality a law in order achieve gender equality by 2030. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award winning South African actress, director and producer Gina Shmukler, whose work has spanned film, television and theatre; locally and internationally. We discuss some of the milestones in her career, driven in part by mentors who inspired her to succeed in different roles. We consider how personal values and the representation of women influence role choices. Her passion to keep developing her craft is honed through discipline with humility and an aspirational attitude towards her work which sees her pushing herself to constantly deliver more. Additionally, as an educator she nurtures students to be accountable, empowered and confident, with an understanding that they should view the Arts not just as a creative endeavour but as a business too. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to reigning Miss SA 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida about the pageant, how it has impacted on her life and some of the responsibilities that come with being Miss SA and serving as an ambassador to her country and continent. We discuss some of the social issues that Shudu is passionate about, encompassing the destigmatization of mental health, food security and empowering women through education. We emphasise the importance of role models, for younger people to aspire to achieve their dreams, whilst recognising someone in their own image has succeeded and thus serves as an example of success. We also note the role of mentorship, of being able to help people navigate their professional journey with a shoulder to support and direct them along the way. Tune in for more…

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, this is our last broadcast of 2020 and we use this show to consider some of the lessons learned as well as inspirations for progress and success, by playing back some impactful segments with guests over the past year. The former Deputy Minister of Defence and former Deputy Minister of Health, Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge reminds us about of some of Africa’s formidable women and how South African women on the political front have worked tirelessly to drive equality in the country. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organisation’s Regional Director for Africa, explains the transformational impact education played in her life. Staying with the theme of education, Dr. Jane Ongolo, reflects on her determination to get her education, starting with walking 40km from her village to attend school. Today she holds her doctorate in Business Administration and heads up the division on Social Welfare, Vulnerable Groups, Drug Control and Crime Prevention at the African Union Commission. Women continue to gain ground in every sphere of society, however there are still some areas, particularly the corporate arena where women are underrepresented. Dr. Leila Fourie, the CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, shares some of her views about the importance of improving the number of women in decision-making roles. Dr. Elize Esterhuizen, who is responsible for the management of the Trauma Unit and Casuality, including COVID-19 cases at Pelonomi Hospital in the Free State offers a few inspiring words that emphasise the importance of mind over matter. Lastly, Professor Julia Wells Head of the Isikhumbuzo Applied History Unit at Rhodes University closes the show with some words of advice that remind women to think big. Tune in for more…

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, this episode reflects on equality for women through perspectives of past gains, present actions and future intent from guests that have participated in the program this year. Prof Julie Wells (Head of the Isikhumbuzo Applied History Unit at Rhodes University) highlights some of the resistance movements over the last 100 years that emphasise women’s unwavering dedication to the liberation struggle. Legislation has changed the face of women’s rights for the better of womenkind. High Court Judge Thoba Poyo-Dlwati from the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court shares some local examples, such as the Constitutional Court making it possible for women to be appointed as chiefs. High Court Judge Tebogo Djaje from the North West Division of the High Court explains the importance of implementing policies to drive change, and the need for women to develop confidence be hopeful and optimistic that they are capable of achieving their goals. Lastly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Hlengiwe-Mkhize discusses some of the actions government is undertaking to tackle current issues to drive gender equality. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Leila Fourie, the CEO of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange who is also the Co-Chair of the United Nations Global Investors for Sustainable Development. Dr. Fourie reflects on some of her milestones in relation to contributing to people’s development and changing lives, noting the paths women can take when they are supported and uplifted by other women. She mentioned some of her career highlights, working across multiple geographic jurisdictions like the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Russia, Brazil and Argentina to her current role leading the JSE through the COVID-19 pandemic and the future plans for the JSE in relation to growing the organization in a sustainable and inclusive way. We considered that both structural and general changes are required to improve the number of women in corporate decision making roles, emphasising that women must be more bold, more confident and more willing to put themselves forward into positions of power; equally so, company policy plays an important role where gender equality measures should be shared publicly to disclose not only the representation of women in organisations, but address gender pay parity too. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who is the World Health Organisation’s (WHO)Regional Director for Africa, and is the first woman to hold this appointment. Dr. Moeti reflects on a few of her career milestones which progressively established links between public health, illness and socio-economic status. We discuss universal health coverage as an important objective of the WHO and some of the work that drives this mandate. We consider prominent health concerns affecting women in Africa like maternal mortality, HIV, cervical cancer, obesity, mental health and gender based violence. We emphasise the importance of educating girls and women because of its transformative effects for themselves as individuals, for their families and for their nations’ overall well-being. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Busisiwe Mavuso, the CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), an independent association of leaders from South Africa’s largest organisations that strives to build a competitive business environment. We discuss corporate policy as a mechanism to drive the gender agenda and ensure that the environment offers equal opportunities to women. We note the effect that visibility of women in leadership has on accommodating not just the individual’s voice but the voices of other women from similar backgrounds. We remark on the need for women to overcome their fears of inadequacy and imposter syndrome to own their success and achievements. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Financial Services Director – Soula Proxenos (Africa Finance Corporation, First Housing Finance, Women’s Development Investment Holdings etc…). Women’s Development Investment Holdings is a women-led group with a focus on funding and supporting female entrepreneurs to transform South Africa’s business and social landscape by empowering women. It was established in 1991 by Zanele Mbeki, former first lady of South Africa (her husband, Thabo Mbeki served as the second president of South Africa from 1999 to 2008). Our conversation addresses women’s financial empowerment and their long-term view towards financial products that contribute to education and life cover. We note the value of home ownership as a source of equity for wealth creation. We remark on some of the positive effects of legislation to improve the representation of women on boards in South Africa in contrast to other BRICS nations. We consider the roles of women on boards to influence aspects like gender diversity, pay parity and leadership within the organisation itself and associated stakeholders. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Elize Esterhuizen, who is responsible for the Management of the Trauma Unit and Casualty Department at Pelonomi Hospital in the Free State. We discuss some of the environmental stresses that managing COVID-19 has exerted on working conditions and the physical and emotional impact that managing the disease has had on frontline staff. We discuss education as a foundational asset to develop women and exposure to opportunities in order to help develop their respective career paths, the importance of positive role models and mentorship to guide and support choices. We note some of the attributes of female leadership and highlight women’s capability for multitasking as a key strength. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to CEO – WDB Investment Holdings – Faith Khanyile. WDB is a women-led group with a focus on funding and supporting female entrepreneurs to transform South Africa’s business and social landscape by empowering women. Women in rural areas tend to be the most marginalised in South Africa, so they are a key focus for the group, with the view that by providing credit to women entrepreneurs allows these ladies to start their own businesses thereby uplifting themselves and their families. The WDB Trust is modelled on the Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, which was conceptualised by Prof. Muhammad Yunus, under the philosophy that credit is a fundamental human right, with the bank offering loans to people who were too poor to qualify for traditional bank loans. WDB has also prioritised women in leadership and the gender pay gap on its gender agenda and drives these initiatives in part through its presence on investment boards and influencing change. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Nomcebo Zikode – who is the songstress and voice behind the massive global hit ‘Jerusalema’, which has sparked the worldwide dance #JerusalemaChallenge. We talk about the making of Jerusalema and how Nomcebo draws on her own life to inspire her lyrics and music. We discuss her career and how she is developing her personal brand and finally seeing many years of hard work materialise into success. We reflect on her early years and determination to succeed. She speaks of the need to stand firm and fight for your dreams by taking action and making the right choices. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to multi-award winning actress Connie Chiume, who was a nurse and a teacher before her acting career launched; her debut role being an international production with performances in Greece and Israel. We reflect on life in South Africa during the 70s and the restrictions she experienced from the apartheid system in comparison to the freedoms she enjoyed in countries that were not her own. We remark on some of the freelancing challenges actors encounter in South Africa, where the entertainment industry is substantially smaller than that of Britain and America, and as a result there are fewer opportunities. We note that the industry is still male dominated, particularly in executive positions and story lines tend to be written by men. We consider the need for greater unity amongst women to exert actions that cohesively transform the industry. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Feroza Motara, who is the Head of Emergency Medicine at Wits University and Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Our conversation highlights some of the new realities facing healthcare practitioners in the era of COVID-19, from logistical changes to protecting staff and patients. We consider some of the traits that female leaders have applied to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and other situations; noting characteristics of practicality, empathy and transparency and their tendency to make decisions that are in the best interest of people. We also remark on the duty of female leaders to mentor younger women to help them navigate their respective career paths. We reflect on the need to instil self-worth amongst girls to help them foster the belief that they have the potential to be anything they want. We highlight the value of education in the hands of women to help elevate the socio-economic conditions of themselves and their families. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Anita Bosch, who is an associate professor at the University of Stellenbosch Business School, South Africa, where she holds the USB Research Chair dedicated to the study of women at work. Our discussion focusses on how to increase the proportion of women on boards and in decision-making roles. We consider aspects that can be undertaken directly by an organisation such as fast-tracking women in the early phase of their career and expanding their recruitment network to appoint qualified women. We look at the role of quotas and voluntary targets, with evidence from Germany, Norway, Spain and Australia. We discuss legislative gaps in the Companies Act and King IV which could be tweaked to improve equality in organisations. We remark on the need for robust consistent monitoring of women in the workplace and the role of the media to encourage companies to be accountable at the risk of reputational damage. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to former Deputy Minister of Defence and Deputy Minister of Health, Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge, who reflects on some of the influences in her journey to politics, from foundational schooling at Inanda Seminary, whose motto is, ‘Shine where you are’; to her introduction to Steve Biko and the Black Consciousness Movement; to the University of Natal – Black Section – which trained black doctors and was a site of struggle but home to activism. She joined the underground African National Congress in 1979, participated in establishing the Natal Organisation of Women and became its chair. In 1990 she became a member of the executive committee of the Women’s National Coalition and thereafter served as a member of parliament for 15 years. We discuss the progress that has been attained to improve access to equal opportunities for women and the need to keep persisting to achieve transformation and equality. We speak about gender violence with an emphasis on GBV incurred through exploitation in the sex trade, and the work that Ms Madlala-Routledge does through her NGO, Embrace Dignity, to address these issues. Tune in for more…

This week’s episode of Womanity - Women in Unity is dedicated to the memory of Edna Molewa, Minister of Environmental Affairs, South Africa, who sadly passed away two years ago on 22 September 2018. Her memory is a lasting legacy in the fight for gender equality. Our conversation reflects on the progress women have made in South Africa, particularly in the political arena and touches on several elements to promote gender equality in the private sector. This includes the Women’s Charter of 1954, as a guiding strategy, and more recently the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill; the capability of women to unite collectively for causes, irrespective of their political allegiances; extending the role of women in government to support women in the private sector. Looking to the future, we emphasise the numerous opportunities that are now available for women, as a result of past efforts that were undertaken to strive for women’s rights. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Julia Wells, who is Associate Professor Emeritus and Head of the Isikhumbuzo Applied History Unit at Rhodes University. Given that we are in heritage month, we reflect on the past and poignant moments for women in South Africa’s history, highlighting some of the resistance movements in 1913, 1930 and 1950s, mentioning Josie Mpama, Helen Joseph and Lilian Ngoyi. Prof.Wells also makes reference to the diplomatic role women played to consolidate warring factions through intermarriage, where the daughter of the losing entity was married to the victor. In these scenarios women formed diplomatic alliances between the two groups, transcending violence and being the peacemakers that built bridges between communities, for example, Queen Noloyiso Sandile of the AmaRharhabe Kingdom. We note that gender discrimination like racial discrimination will not change by superficial means, gender issues extend beyond legal frameworks and thus quotas in various structures be it political or the workplace are needed to enable women to participate in these spaces. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Nadine Lake, the Director of Gender Studies in the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies at the University of the Free State. We discuss feminism as a theory that challenges normative patriarchal and capitalist societies to reconsider the way that people think about reality and prioritises the voices and lived experiences of women. Multiple traits of feminism have evolved. Some of the applied learnings of a more gender sensitive state has seen narrowing of gender pay gaps, women having the right to work, increasing the number of women in decision making positions and fighting against gender-based violence in a public manner supported by the President of South Africa. The field of gender studies aims to teach students to think about power relations in society and the way that this impacts on our work and domestic environments to challenge inequality in society. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Gillian Drennan, Head of School of Geoscience at WITS University. She is a member of the Geological Society of South Africa (GSSA) and the International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO) and also serves as Chairperson for the Museum Consultative Committee as well as the Geological Museum Association, Museum Africa. We discuss some of the applications of the earth sciences encompassing fields of geology, mining geology, geochemistry and palaeontology amongst others. Prof. Drennan highlights some of the research the department has embarked on and collaborations with countries like Japan, Democratic Republic of Congo and Ivory Coast, remarking how older technology is being repurposed and put into new contexts as well as identifying new applications for older minerals in our changing world. We discuss the fact that there are more women than men enrolled at undergraduate level to study GeoScience, which is a marked change from when Prof. Drennan undertook her academic studies. We consider how employers can create conducive environments that enable people to reach their full potential and be able to fulfil both their personal and professional goals. We contemplate to transition into a more egalitarian society and considered the role that attitude and culture play in this change. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Lenore Manderson, Distinguished Professor of Public Health and Medical Anthropology in the School of Public Health at the University of the Witwatersrand; she also holds appointments with Brown University, US, and Monash University, Australia. Prof. Manderson unpacks aspects of medical anthropology, such as the social ways in which people experience health and disease. We consider the impact of Covid-19 in this context with particular emphasis on the burden borne by women, noting that women are typically the primary care givers to the young and elderly; where there is home schooling – this task often falls under women’s responsibilities too; on top of these roles women are still have to maintain their day jobs for economic sustenance. We highlight structural reasons for women experiencing discrimination; we speak about the feminism movement in the 70s; and Prof. Manderson shares some of the challenges she overcame during her career and the achievements she has attained. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities - Hlengiwe Mkhize. Who previously served as Minister of Higher Education and Training; Minister of Home Affairs; Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services; Deputy Minister of Economic Development; Deputy Minister of Higher Education; and Deputy Minister of Correctional Services from May 2009 to November 2010. She is the former Ambassador of South Africa to the Netherlands and she is the former Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We discuss her pursuit of the gender equality agenda in the various cabinet positions she occupied. We reflect on important gains women have achieved with respect to health and reproductive rights; access to electricity; and education. We consider how the four key actions, announced by President Ramaphosa in his 2020 Women’s Day speech will materialise. These actions are: 1. To expand access of women to economic opportunities; 2. To support women who operate small or micro businesses, including in the informal sector; 3. To speed up the process of giving women access to productive assets such as land; and 4. To ensure that women are safe from gender-based violence in the workplace. We address the impact of Covid-19 on women revealing social and economic fault lines. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the High Commissioner of New Zealand to South Africa – Sarah Lee. High Commissioner Lee shares some of the landmarks in her career and work being undertaken in the 12 African countries that fall into her current portfolio; and she emphasises the value of teams and how collective efforts deliver success. We highlight some of the empowerment projects that New Zealand is involved with in Africa, that aim to normalise women’s economic participation in the labour force as well as the idea that women should occupy leadership roles not just support functions. We reflect on some of the characteristics that women bring to leadership, such as good communication, compassion, focus on family, healthcare and welfare. New Zealand has a history of women in prominent positions of leadership and we remark on the positive role modelling effect this has for girls and women, encouraging them to be bold and ambitious, and we acknowledge that there are different ways of leading and different ways of following. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to High Court Judge Segopotje Sheila Mphahlele – from the Mpumalanga division of the High Court. We reflect on strategies that reduce gender bias in recruitment processes, such as the inclusion of women on selection panels. Judge Mphahlele reflects on former International Development Law Organisation’s Director-General Irene Khan statement, “The quality of justice for women improves when women are not only consumers of justice, but also providers of justice”, and the need to increase the number of female judges in South Africa. In our discussion about gender equality Judge Mphahlele considers the influencing effects that parents have on shaping children’s attitudes of women and men and through a paradigm shift that focuses on both girls and boys to help evolve society towards a more egalitarian one. We consider education as an enabler and Judge Mphahlele goes further to describe it as a liberator, which frees women from being dependent on others, and potentially remaining in abusive relationships because they lack the means to stand on their own. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to High Court Judge Thoba Poyo-Dlwati – from the KwaZulu Natal division of the High Court. Judge Poyo-Dlwati shares key landmarks in her career and her involvement with various legal associations that aim to increase the representation of women and their advancement in justice institutions. We also discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on transforming ways of working in the legal system. In light of national women’s month this year, which is celebrated under the theme, “Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights for an Equal Future” Judge Poyo-Dlwati reflects on some of the recent equality gains women have attained and considers what needs to be done to accelerate equality for women. Judge Poyo-Dlwati considers how, “women can have it all”, with the relevant support structures and equitable distribution of family responsibilities between parents. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to permanent High Court Judge Tebogo Djaje – from the North West division of the High Court. Judge Djaje shares her journey to the judiciary and rising through the ranks to the bench. She relays some of her experiences presiding over sexual offences, highlighting the effects of victim trauma and various support structures in place to assist witnesses. We discuss the role of institutions like the South African Women Lawyers Association and initiatives like Take a Girl Child to Work to create space to ensure there is participation of women across all spheres of society, and encourage girls and women to pursue the road less travelled – challenges bring opportunity. We reflect on skills that working mothers use to juggle the demands of family and career, citing time management as an effective tool. Judge Djaje considers that with hope and confidence women can achieve and do it all. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to High Court Judge - Mokgere Masipa of the KwaZulu Natal division of the High Court. We discuss some of her motivations for entering the legal profession, which included witnessing first-hand injustices of the maintenance courts as a child. We address some of the success factors that have contributed to her career, such as pursuing her dream, collegiality, sacrifice and a support family. Judge Masipa shares a few of her significant cases which impact on education rights and rape offences. In terms of trying to reduce the incidence of gender-based violence, Judge Masipa considers the need to actively educate society and direct behavioural change by introducing a gender sensitive curriculum at schools, establishing user-friendly community centres with appropriately skilled personnel and adequate training for first-responders, like police, to professionally attend to GBV cases. We consider the challenge of sexism that women face in the work place and urge them to confront this issue, utilising legislation that has been designed to combat discrimination. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to High Court Judge - Anna Maleshane Kgoele of the Mpumalanga division of the High Court, who formerly served as president of the South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges. She shares some career milestones and reflects on a few memorable cases. We look at some of the initiatives that promote women in the judiciary and emphasise the work that the South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges focuses on, such as capability building through various programmes. Looking towards bettering the future for women, Judge Kgoele considers several elements are necessary, namely: increasing the presence of female leadership across public and private sectors, promoting solidarity amongst women, building strong alliances between women and their male counterparts, encouraging women to be ambitious and ascend the ladder of whatever profession they chose to enter. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Tess van der Merwe who is a Professor and Researcher in the Department of Endocrinology, University of Pretoria; CEO of the 11 Centres for Metabolic Medicine and Surgery of South Africa CEMMS(SA). She is the Africa consultant for the International Association for the Study of Obesity; Chair of the South African Society for Obesity Metabolism (SASSO) and has served this organisation for more than 25 years; and she currently serves on the Scientific Board of the International Federation for Surgical Obesity. She highlights the fact that two out of every three women in South Africa is clinically overweight or obese, which places South Africa fifth highest level in the world in terms of obesity rankings and the heaviest in sub-Sahara Africa. Obesity is a multifactorial disease and the prevalence in women is combination of environmental and personal factors. There is a need to shift thinking about obesity from a lifestyle disease to a disease in its own right that contributes to several chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and cancer. We compare gender equality attitudes in South Africa and Sweden (an egalitarian society), where gender blindness in Sweden provides equal opportunities for women in comparison to the immature attitudes some sectors of South African soceity tends to have regarding women that limit their development. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Jeannette Parkes, who heads up the Department of Radiation Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital. She highlights some of the dynamics of the multidisciplinary network that is applied to oncology treatments and some of the projects that the institutions are involved with to deliver cutting edge solutions. We consider some interventions to promote staff retention in the state sector which serves more than 85% of the population. We discuss role modelling and mentoring as positive methods to nurture and develop women in their career paths. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Lizle Oosthuizen, who is a registered specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist practising at Cape Fertility in Claremont Cape Town as a fellow in Reproductive Medicine. Given that June is World Infertility Awareness month our conversation highlights some of the factors that contribute to infertility. Lifestyle vectors that impact on the likelihood of successful conception include being overweight, unmanaged stress levels, smoking and ageing. We address egg freezing or cryo preservation as one option for women to bank their eggs for the future, in the event that they want to delay starting a family, thus creating choice for women as they manage their careers and partnerships. Dr Oosthuizen reflects on some of the milestones in her career such as turning around a labour ward in a rural Eastern Cape hospital to the point of zero maternal mortalities and using intuition to creatively find solutions in situations of limited resources. We remark that women need to continue to educate themselves, expand their horizons and learn about the multitude of career possibilities. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award winning singer and songwriter Riana Nel. She shares some of the lessons learned along her almost two decade career in the entertainment industry, extending from traditional operations through to being a coach on the talent reality TV show The Voice and seeking new opportunities brought about by the challenges of COVID-19; which has included writing 106 songs for the members of the public in just 7 weeks. We consider the influencing effect that musicians exert on their audiences and correspondingly the importance of musicians using their platforms responsibility. Riana reflects on her choices to lift people up, and as a lasting legacy to help blow the in wind into women’s sails so they may soar to greater heights. We also reflect on the need to create awareness about gender-based violence issues, including sex trafficking and caution young women against predatory practices. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Brigadier-General Winnie Ntombizodwa Zini-Bobelo. Brigadier-General Bobelo shares a few of the landmarks in her career with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Some of these milestones have exerted a positive impact on the lives of women: such as role modelling and mentoring women to aspire for leadership roles in SANDF; addressing women as peacekeepers; and correspondingly their work in post conflict management and protection of women. She highlights some of the peacekeeping functions undertaken by SANDF in different countries in Africa, such as Burundi, Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo. Looking to the future of women and reflecting on her own experiences, Brigadier-General Bobelo notes the importance of gaining knowledge through education, developing confidence, evolving risk-taking skills, wholeheartedly embracing opportunities that present themselves and digital transformation. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award winning actress Katlego Danke. We reflect on some of the memorable characters she has portrayed in productions, as well as her choices to tell the stories of strong black women and in doing so demonstrate what women can do for themselves and what women can do for other women - especially those in positions of power. We note the pervasiveness of media as a tool to exert constructive as well as negative impact, and the importance of using these platforms responsibly. We consider some of the changes that are underway at production houses, citing DSTV as a shining example that is consciously uplifting women through particular productions, which is positively influencing the type of work available to women and the gender pay scale. We highlight the importance of education to hone career skills, especially amongst young women. We also note the need to include men in women’s ongoing challenges of attaining equality. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and member of parliament Ms Faith Muthambi, who previously served as Minister of Communications, and Minister of Public Service and Administration. We discuss the role that the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs plays with respect to disaster management during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa; highlighting two recent examples that require the portfolio committee’s oversight, specifically a R20billion relief package to distressed municipalities and effective communication to people living in rural areas to avoid misinformation about the coronavirus and the risk of stigmatization. We note that several female headed countries have successfully limited the spread of COVID-19, such as New Zealand, Finland, Germany and Taiwan, and remark on the value of female management characteristics in periods of crisis. We also discuss women in leadership on a more localised level, such as in communities and in the home. Tune in for more…

Due to South Africa’s nationwide lockdown in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, this week we will be running a re-broadcast of our previous show with the former Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu, who is currently serving as South Africa’s Minister of Social Develoment. This week we are joined by Lindiwe Zulu, South Africa’s Minister of Small Business Development. Our conversation reflects the Department’s priority targets of youth, people with disabilities and women (in particular) for small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), and the need to create environments for SMMEs to thrive through skills development, financial support and markets for these operations. We emphasise the importance of educating women to endow them with the requisite skills to contribute meaningfully to all sectors of the South African economy. We recognise that today women have many more opportunities than their predecessors did, but to take full advantage of these benefits requires effective planning. Tune in for more…

Due to South Africa’s nationwide lockdown in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, this week we will be running a re-broadcast of our previous show with the former Chairperson of the African Union Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who is currently serving as South Africa’s Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs. We spoke to Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma on key outcomes of the summit 25th AU Summit, under the theme "Year of Women Empowerment and Development towards Africa's Agenda 2063" : the transformation efforts underway to better enable women working in agriculture; emphasising the need to deliver on gender quotas across the board to move towards 50:50 parity; the launch of the African Union Foundation; and the plans underway for the African Union to become self-reliant. Additionally, we address women in leadership, overcoming patriarchy and eradicating poverty through education. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Amy Niang, from the School of International Relations at the University of the Witwatersrand. Professor Niang is a political scientist with an interest in the history of state formation and related ideas of sovereignty, statehood, community and order. We discuss some aspects of her research and the School’s goal to develop its students teaching concepts like cosmopolitism and multilateralism. We debate mechanisms to accelerate gender equality, highlighting legislative instruments and note that many activists tend to be female. We remark on the importance of mentoring young women to aid their advancement. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Pan African Parliament member and Member of Parliament of Uganda, Jacqueline Amongin. Her portfolio with the Pan African Parliament Committee encompasses agriculture and the youth caucus and as a member of the Parliament in Uganda she focusses on Public Accounts. Some of her focal areas in relation to women address parity of land ownership and youth development. Additionally, she established the Jacqueline Amongin Development Foundation, which aims to empower women with vocational skills, such as animal husbandry to rear goats and poultry products. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the African Union Commission’s Head of Social Welfare – Dr. Jane Ongolo. Her portfolio encompasses children’s rights, human rights, governance, social protection, drug prevention and crime prevention. We raise issues of female genital mutilation and child marriage as gross acts of gender-based violence. We discuss education as an important equalizer in terms of gender equality and Dr Ongoglo narrates her personal story of education, which she attributes to her success. She was the first girl from her village to go to school, every term she walked, with her belongings, 60km to and from school. Her core takeout from the Pan African Parliament, which was held under the African Union’s theme for 2020: “Silencing the guns: creating conducive conditions for Africa’s development”, concerned mechanisms to combat child exploitation, particularly girls. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Pan African Parliament member and Member of Parliament of The Gambia, Fatou Jawara. In The Gambia she serves on the following committees: gender, health, women, children, disaster, humanitarian relief, defence and security, as well as the independent electoral commission’s ombudsman. Some of her focal areas in relation to women encompass: supporting female farmers, striving for gender parity, increasing the representation of women across the spectrum – targeting 30%, and overcoming outdated thinking that relegates women to care giving roles. She narrates some of her challenges in The Gambia’s political struggle which included imprisonment, torture and intimidation. A few of her takeouts from the Pan African Parliament, which was held under the African Union’s theme for 2020: “Silencing the guns: creating conducive conditions for Africa’s development”, are to grow her knowledge base and implement procedures and sensitisation methods to combat issues raised by the conference. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Pan African Parliament member and Member of Parliament of The Gambia, Fatou Jawara. In The Gambia she serves on the following committees: gender, health, women, children, disaster, humanitarian relief, defence and security, as well as the independent electoral commission’s ombudsman. Some of her focal areas in relation to women encompass: supporting female farmers, striving for gender parity, increasing the representation of women across the spectrum – targeting 30%, and overcoming outdated thinking that relegates women to care giving roles. She narrates some of her challenges in The Gambia’s political struggle which included imprisonment, torture and intimidation. A few of her takeouts from the Pan African Parliament, which was held under the African Union’s theme for 2020: “Silencing the guns: creating conducive conditions for Africa’s development”, are to grow her knowledge base and implement procedures and sensitisation methods to combat issues raised by the conference. Tune in for more…

This week’s episode of Womanity – Women in Unity, is dedicated to the March Sitting of the Permanent Committees of the fifth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament which will takes place from 27 February to 07 March 2020 at the Gallagher Estate (Midrand) South Africa. These sittings will be held under the African Union’s theme for 2020: “Silencing the guns: creating conducive conditions for Africa’s development.” Next week we will hear from country representatives at the Pan African Parliament about key takeouts from some of the committee sittings. For this reason, we celebrate the success of two exemplary female pilots who broke every glass ceiling possible, from flying Boeing 747-400s, to flying all female crewed flights, even serving as Nelson Mandela’s personal pilot. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the captain of the South African National Women’s Football Team Janine van Wyk, who is the country’s most capped player (male or female). She has represented South Africa in two Olympics, as well as qualifying the national team’s debut at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. We discuss some of her career highlights as a player and driving the development of women’s football to evolve the sport, to make it more accessible for girls to play in a comfortable environment. To develop international success as a player we note the role of support structures, coaches and role models to bring out the best in an athlete. As a leader, Janine applies her enthusiasm for the game and social capital to build trust and invest into relationships with the team to guide them through strengths and weaknessES to optimise collective performance. Janine is conscious about giving back to the game from establishing her own women’s football club, Janine Van Wyk Football Club, to help girls develop their game and become the next rising stars of Banyana Banyana to promoting the recently formed Women’s National Football League. Additionally, to help grow women’s football in South Africa, a combination of greater corporate sponsorship support, the creation of soccer academies for girls to nurture talent and exposure of women’s football for public awareness. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus Portfolio Committee and member of parliament, Ms Nkhensani Bilankulu. The conversation includes the role of the committee as a body where women parliamentarians champion gender equality inside and outside parliament across racial and party lines, to serve as an advisory structure that represents the interests and concerns of women. We highlight some of the developments in the committee’s core focus areas of: Decriminalization of Sex Work; Women in Politics; Sanitary Dignity; Gender Based Violence and Femicide; Strengthening of the National Gender Machinery; the Re- introduction of Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB); Building Relations with Stakeholders; and Women and Health. We consider some of the gaps in these areas and how to close them. We discuss formal education to help advance women in the workplace and social education throughout communities to transform societal behaviour towards a more egalitarian society; and reflect on the responsibility that citizens have to one another to be the change they wish to see. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Ultramarathon Champion Gerda Steyn, who currently holds the titles to the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon. We discuss her tremendous success in a relatively nascent career of just six years and her vision for the future as she prepares for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She shares her journey from quantity surveyor to professional athlete, including the transformation of her microcosm to optimise performance on the road. We discuss some of the dynamics of running, such as the team aspect of the sport, physical endurance and importantly mental strength – as the mind controls the body. Gerda reflects on the history of competitive marathon running for women, explaining that women were barred, because of the perception that they were physically not capable of running long distances. In 1967 Katherine Switzer triggered an equality movement through her official entry to the Boston Marathon and completion of the event despite attempts to haul her off the track. Today female marathon runners are free to nurture their talent competitively, they earn equal prize money to their male counterparts and now receive equal exposure from broadcasters. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to General Riah Phiyega, who was the former National Commissioner of the South African Police Services and currently serves as CEO of the Safer South Africa Foundation. We discuss the role of the foundation with respect to civil rights and community involvement in crime prevention management with a focus on youth programmes that cut across the criminal justice stakeholder value chain, as well as the longitudinal value of these interventions on the country’s social fabric. We consider the responsibility of women as primary care givers to deter criminal behaviour, to socialise children against gender based violence and foster respect for girls and women. Our conversation regarding women in leadership touches on some of qualities women bring to the table, such as compassion for effective outcomes, and examines the role of the South African Chapter of the International Women’s Forum to advance women’s leadership across careers, cultures and continents. We emphasise the duty of pathfinders to dispense their wisdom to path-followers that rise behind them. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to member of parliament and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee of Public Works and Infrastructure – Nolitha Ntobongwana. We discuss the oversight and governance role of the portfolio committee that she chairs, and some of the challenges regarding implementation of budget items and accountable delivery. We reflect on the role of the African National Congress’s Women’s League to prioritize issues that affect all women. In terms of female economic empowerment we raise concerns that women, although possessing requisite capability for positions, still tend to be overlooked for roles, in favour of men. We highlight the scourge of gender based violence, and Ms Ntobongwana suggests solutions, in part, lie with men, as perpetrators of GBV, changing their perspectives of women, and for women as primary child rearers to socialise boys and girls to adopt egalitarian values and regarding one another as equals. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the High Commissioner of Australia to South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Eswatini. We discuss some of the landmarks in her career, the enduring links between Australia and South Africa and mutual investment interests. High Commissioner Kamath highlights some of the gender focal priorities of the Australian Government’s Aid Programme with 80% of aid investment addressing gender issues and their implementation, as such they invest in enhancing women’s voice in decision making, women’s economic empowerment, and ending violence against women and girls. We discuss some of Australia’s creative mechanisms to promote gender equality and get women to participate meaningfully through initiatives like male champions of change to the panel pledge. High Commissioner Kamath also shares personal journey as a migrant, the role of education, the resilience of her mother and grandmother as powerful role model and reminds women to support one another – always. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Lydia Sindisiwe Chikunga. We discuss the Department’s work under the Batho Pele philosophy, with respect to setting norms and standards for government departments to best serve citizens and the governance thereof. We also speak about the Department’s role in the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), from the perspective of South Africa being one of the co-founding countries of APRM and taking over its chair-ship in 2020. We emphasise APRM as tool to build on the knowledge of others to accelerate development. We also unpack some of the cultural dynamics that perpetuate gender-based violence in communities. We address women’s empowerment, with a focus on education and access to resources as strategic enablers, and if integrated effectively, by working together we will leave no woman behind. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the European Union Ambassador to South Africa Dr. Riina Kionka. We discuss some of the European Union’s priorities, with an emphasis on digital as an enabler and sustainable development - the green deal. Ambassador Kionka speaks about the evolving narrative between the EU commission and Africa towards a relationship partnership for the mutual benefit of both regions. We consider women in leadership and the positive direct and indirect impact they have on other women as role models. We reflect on several mechanisms to attain gender parity, such as target setting and including women on recruitment selection panels to compensate or overcome human biases. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Ambassador of Ireland to South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho and Mauritius - Fionnuala Gilsenan. We discuss some of her former diplomatic roles in East Timor, Ethiopia and Tanzania. Our conversation touches on potential points of knowledge exchange between Ireland and South Africa, with a focal point on women, in areas of peace and security, gender-based violence, education and economics. We consider women in leadership, and note the positive role-model effects that Ireland’s first female president, Mary Robinson, had on women, not just with political aspirations but with ambitions to succeed in other sectors. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development - Thoko Didiza. We discuss some of the dynamics of agriculture, encompassing the spectrum of subsistence to commercial farming, although the various constituencies are positioned at different levels they all require support mechanisms in the form of technology reform, financial backing, market facilitation and access. Minister Didiza mentions an emphasis on enabling rural communities, especially women, to turn their assets, like goats and cattle, into revenue generators i.e. milk, cheese and meat production. We discuss disproportionate land ownership, favouring men over women, and the fact that women’s relationship to land tends to be through men. Minister Didiza shares some aspects her recent appointment to chair the African Union’s Specialised Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment, which partly entails leveraging expertise of the continent to deal with matters affecting these domains in an integrated best practice approach. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South African actress, presenter and producer – Zakeeya Patel. We discuss the art of storytelling and its power to move people. Zakeeya shares some of her career highlights and being able to realise her ambition to participate in the world’s biggest entertainment industry, Hollywood. We talk about her long-term goals to be able to tell stories by women, about women, for women. We address positive changes that have been introduced into the television and film sector to protect women from harassment. We reflect on education and financial security as key empowerment tools for women to own their futures, their voices and their stories. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the former Vice President and Minister of Women of The Gambia - Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang. Our conversation encompasses women in politics, business and leadership. We emphasise opening spaces for women to participate in mainstream economies, for example, through implementing the African continental trade agreement and deriving benefits such as access to resources, capacity building and support for their enterprises, which in turn enables them to contribute more meaningfully in their local communities as well as their national economy. Some of the entrepreneurial projects set up in The Gambia, for women, revolve around local resources, for example, salt production enterprises and animal husbandry initiatives. Access to finance through microfinancing has been another important enabler. We note that gender equality is vital for building inclusive societies, developing social justice, equitable power structures and developing capacity for communities. In order to achieve progress it is vital for individuals to remain relevant through continuous learning and being attuned to social signals. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister Trade and Industry Nomalungelo Gina. We discuss some of the Department’s programmes to counter high levels of unemployment in South Africa, to promote inclusive economic opportunities and cross-border participation in the continent – facilitated by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. We highlight policies that enable economic empowerment for women across the work spectrum and note several social policies for example interventions that help formalise stokvels. We contrast the comparatively low representation of women in upper echelons of the private sector with government, as well as the selection of a limited number of women for board seats. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award-winning multi-talented actress Kate Normington. We explore acting as a profession from her experiences and perspective as a woman. We touch on aspects that have contributed to her longevity in the industry, from patience and faith in pursuit of roles during periods of uncertainty and taking advantage of situations, to reinventing yourself through continual learning to remain relevant. We touch on limitations concerning the body of work available to women, remarking on various media studies from the likes of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media and tests such as Bechdel-Wallace, which demonstrates that females are significantly underrepresented in film, accounting for an average of 30% of speaking roles. Yet, media is an enduring platform that is an intrinsic part of many cultures thus women deserve equal exposure and to be portrayed inclusively. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award-winning multi-talented actress Ilse Klink. We revisit a few of the memorable characters she has portrayed in productions like Scorched, Chicago and Isidingo and the impact roles have on the psyche and society. She discusses some of her motivations that go into selecting roles that represent women of today and do not perpetuate narrow stereotypes, as well as constantly honing her skillset for versatility. We speak about the challenges that women still experience in the performing arts, ranging from harassment to pay disparity. We reflect on the freedoms associated with freelance performance as well as the business acumen required for economic success. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to award-winning multi-talented actress Ilse Klink. We revisit a few of the memorable characters she has portrayed in productions like Scorched, Chicago and Isidingo and the impact roles have on the psyche and society. She discusses some of her motivations that go into selecting roles that represent women of today and do not perpetuate narrow stereotypes, as well as constantly honing her skillset for versatility. We speak about the challenges that women still experience in the performing arts, ranging from harassment to pay disparity. We reflect on the freedoms associated with freelance performance as well as the business acumen required for economic success. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Fifi Cooper a multi-award-winning rapper, songstress and independent producer of MoCooper Records. We reflect on Fifi’s journey into the music business and paving the way for other female rappers to enter the mainstream. We talk about some of her recent projects, such as composing a film soundtrack and judging newcomers on a TV talent show. She discusses the independence and responsibilities of owning a record label and how she uses this platform to open opportunities for others. She considers the importance of developing a female network for musicians to share developments and confront negative issues experienced in industry as a cohesive unit. Fifi also shares some of her key motivators, from being a mother to approaching everything she does like it’s the first time. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South African singer LaSauce. We highlight aspects of her journey into the music industry and ambitions for the future as a performer. We talk about the importance of finding purpose to help direct a person’s efforts into a meaningful trajectory. We reflect on the role of social media as an engagement channel to connect with fans, and consider the planning required to maintain interesting media content that attracts audiences’ attention. We address some of the social issues that young women of today grapple with and how greater public awareness, for instance of gender-based violence, is helping women protect themselves and drive socio-cultural transformation amongst menfolk. We acknowledge the examples of women who have walked their respective paths to empower the current cohort of women, who in turn will make it easier for the next generation to realise their dreams. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Marie Sukers, who serves as a Member of Parliament for the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) and sits on the portfolio committees of Basic Education and Social Development. We discuss some of the responsibilities of parliament in terms of delivering services to citizens and ensuring that legislation that has been passed is implemented in communities. Ms Sukers shares some of the highlights from the recent Commonwealth Parliamentary Association meeting in Uganda, noting that the global average of female representation in parliaments is under 25%. She remarks on the role of men in political parties to help promote women within their structures, as one aspect of shoring up female representation in parliament. Our conversation considers mechanisms to help empower young women, emphasising mentorship and tertiary education. We remark on women supporting other women to help them rise through their respective careers and the importance of female networks. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Ms. Tamarin (Tammy) Breedt, who serves as a Member of Parliament for the Freedom Front Plus and sits on the portfolio committees of Agriculture, Rural Development as well as Land Reform. We discuss parliament members’ responsibilities in relation to holding portfolio committees and government departments accountable for their respective projects to ensure the country’s fiscuss is spent wisely. Our conversation highlights parliament’s recent five-point plan to combat gender-based violence and associated offences against women, and the need to move from awareness to action by empowering first responders. We remark on women supporting other women to help them rise through their respective careers and the importance of female networks. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Ms. Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi, who is a Member of Parliament and Deputy Secretary General of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Our discussion highlights patriarchy and inequality as prominent barriers to women’s progress. We unpack education as a tool to overcome oppressive cultural practices and as a means for women to attain economic empowerment. We speak about some of the political structures, like the Women’s Multiparty Caucus, that aim to unify women across parties to focus on the agendas of women and thereby drive change. Ms Mkhaliphi argues that whilst these platforms bring women together, they must be used to deliver tangible solutions for women. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to reigning Miss South Africa 2019 Zozibini Tunzi about the 2019 Miss SA pageant, and some of the responsibilities associated with being Miss SA, such as being a voice for women, serving as a role model and representing South Africa in the global arena. We discuss Miss SA as a platform for women’s empowerment. We talk about the role of campaigns driving awareness about women’s issues, such as gender-based violence, and the need to move forward into action to make a tangible difference in the lives of women. We recognise education as tool for independence to propel women forward. We reflect on some of the factors that have contributed to Zozibini’s success, such as resilience, resourcefulness and resetting goals in the face of unfavourable circumstances. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Angel Khanyile from the Democratic Alliance, who is a member of parliament and serving on the portfolio committee of Home Affairs. We discuss some of the platforms in parliament that aim to progress women’s agendas, such as the multiparty women’s caucus and annual women’s parliament event, which included a 25 year review of the Women’s Charter for effective equality. We consider gender-based violence, patriarchy and pay disparity as key concerns that perpetuate inequality for women, and urge women to speak up about any injustices they experience, so that appropriate action can be taken. Ms Khanyile demonstrates that through hard work, perseverance, appropriate planning and action it is possible for people to transform their lives for the better. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to multi-award winning singer-songwriter Berita. She shares her introduction to music, initially exploring self-identity as an African and expressing herself through different genres of art. She shares some of the poignant landmarks in her Afrosoul career, such as collaborations with legends, winning awards and becoming an independent multi-faceted artist. We discuss some of the strengths for women in the South African music industry and the conscious development of female talent across the industry. We consider the importance of education and continuous advancement for life-long learning and the need to challenge oneself daily. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour – Boitumelo Moloi. We discuss the Department’s economic role in society to reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality. We reflect on implementation of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value, which is particularly important to women, considering current gender pay disparities. We remark on the cabinet’s 50:50 composition regarding male and female appointments as a positive demonstration of women’s capabilities and message of transformation which should be echoed in the private sector. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Louise Warnich, the Dean of the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University. We discuss some of the recent innovations emanating from various science departments housed in the faculty, such as addressing biological invasions that challenge our bio-diversity, studying populations of great white sharks and developing safe shark barriers to protect beaches. These endeavours have an impact on the real-world, which is part of the institution’s ethos to equip students with skills like critical thinking, lifelong learning and collaboration to enable them to participate and lead in the future #4IR world of work. Prof Warnich shares some of her experiences as a scientist and her research in the field of genomics. We discuss interventions from bursaries to events and flexible schedules that help promote the participation of women in science. We note the need for programmes that develop leadership qualities in women, the importance of role models and mentors and to provide these tools to girls as they are starting to consider career and life options. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Sibongile Muthwa, the Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University. Prof. Muthwa highlights a few of the institution’s strategic plans from transforming curricula content to increasing research outputs as well as promoting demographic diversity of its cohort of researchers. She also introduces a flagship project to retrace Nelson Mandela’s footsteps in Africa via academic alliances with countries that supported South Africa in its struggle years. We discuss what it means to be African in the space of knowledge creation, and stamping Africa’s contribution on the academic map. Prof. Muthwa shares her experience of the fees must fall movement and resulting learnings leading to greater student-centricity and inclusion at all points in the university’s value chain. We look at avenues to groom female leadership, such as identifying and supporting young women with promise to instil self-belief and leapfrog hurdles to accelerate their access to opportunities. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South African comedienne Nina Hastie about her career in stand-up comedy and using this platform to pursue her agenda for race resocialisation. We discuss some of the dynamics that aspiring female comics encounter in the industry in comparison to their male counterparts, such as reduced exposure resulting in fewer work opportunities which impacts their growth prospects and earning potential. On a more positive note we highlight how initiatives, like the Kings and Queens of Comedy, are creating a space to address gender imbalances and stage more female comics; additionally we recognise that the Internet, social media networks, Netflix etc… provide alternate avenues for comics to develop their personal brand and attain success on not just a local level but global scale too. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Linda Ronnie, the Dean for the Faculty of Commerce at the University of Cape Town. We discuss the role of tertiary institutions to produce appropriately skilled graduates for the world of work, whether they be based locally or internationally. Our conversation on women advancing in the workforce, unpacks the “sticky floor” concept, where some organisational practices tend to keep women in follower roles. We look towards interventions to address barriers that women experience including: policy reforms, dismantling unconscious bias, creating support structures, and encouraging women to be more assertive. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Ingrid Woolard, the Dean for the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University. We discuss the threat facing traditional residential universities from new entrants into the education space particularly private providers. In view of this we consider a few of the intangible takeouts students gain from their university experience, which have short and long-term benefits, for example developing their peer network of future private and public sector leaders. Prof. Woolard shares some of the progress of her research on measurement of poverty, inequality and unemployment in South Africa, noting that there has been improved access to some amenities, but the inequality gap has expanded partly as a result of a weak labour market. We remark on factors that contribute to gender pay disparity, as well as the marked differences in the low representation of female leaders in South Africa’s private sector compared to almost 50% representation the public sector. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Alison Lewis, the Dean for the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Cape Town. We discuss some of the responsibilities that are associated with this position, including transformation and decolonisation at the University of Cape Town. Prof. Lewis highlights a few aspects of her research initiatives oriented around contaminated water, using methods to both purifying the water and contaminants into useful products. We also discuss the mutual benefits of fostering closer relationships between industry and academia. We also consider elements that may improve the attractiveness of the engineering discipline to encourage more students to take up this field which has the potential to solve current 21st century problems. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Cathi Albertyn, who is a Professor of Law and holds the South African Research Chair in Equality, Law and Social Justice at the School of Law - University of the Witwatersrand. Prof. Albertyn’s early work addressed aspects of South Africa’s oppressive past and inequalities, where law served as a tool of oppression. In her later work she focussed on using law for social justice, for instance by participating in the development of South Africa’s new constitution - ensuring that women would be entitled to equality across all spheres of society, she also worked on women’s reproductive rights. In 2018 she was awarded a National Research Foundation South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) for: Equality, Law and Social Justice, which she plans to use to develop a postgraduate community and to co-ordinate an initiative on constitutions bringing in the “Voices of the South”. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Ariane Janse van Rensburg, Director of Architecture Programme at the School of Architecture and Planning at WITS University. We discuss how the School’s transformative approach to education, with the implementation of a decolonised curriculum, results in students embracing their own learning philosophies that has broad applicability to other aspects of their lives. Our conversation considers the role of architecture in society, from its core to solution for people problems to reflecting culture and utilising design and materials economically with a view to sustainability. Prof. Janse van Rensburg reminds us that there is no Planet B. We reflect on some of the underlying issues that contribute to the relatively low proportion of female architects in practice in comparison to their male counterparts, despite gender balance at graduation. Gender pay and opportunity disparity is evident in the field of architecture, as well as other disciplines and we identify ways to overcome these points of discrimination. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Blanche Cupido, a cardiologist with a special interest in congenital heart disease. She heads up the echocardiography division at the Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town. Dr. Cupido shares a few details about her work, covering clinical aspects, building capacity, teaching undergraduate medical students and treating adults with congenital heart disease. We discuss the scarcity of cardiologists in South Africa and Africa, noting that there are approximately 160-170 cardiologists serving a population of 57million people, furthermore there are less than 30 cardiologists working in the public sector. We also highlight the role of mentors and colleagues to support women as they advance through their careers. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Philna Coetzee, Executive Deputy Dean – College of Accounting Sciences at UNISA. This college is responsible for enrolling 40% of all accounting students in South Africa, and over 50% of its graduates are women. Prof. Coetzee aims to change the scholarly notion of educators from teaching to learning facilitators, noting that different people learn in different ways. We highlight the need for ongoing collaboration between industry and academia to ensure curricula remain relevant. Prof. Coetzee remarks on the positive trend of women pulling up other women, which is aiding the recruitment of women into higher positions across the labour market; their current absence in corporate South Africa is notable. Tune in for more…

In commemoration of the 43rd anniversary of youth day (16 June, 1976), this week we talk to reigning Miss SA Tamaryn Green about the 2018 Miss SA pageant, which celebrated its Diamond Jubilee (60th anniversary) this year, and the responsibilities and privileges associated with being Miss SA. We discuss some of the women’s empowerment work Tamaryn is involved with, through her sponsors, like Cell C’s Take A Girl Child to Work programme, which has evolved from one day to a more enduring platform that offers information and guidance to young women to transition into capable empowered adults, and her own forthcoming initiative where she plans to combine health and education into a campaign. We talk about some of the factors that have contributed to her success, from support structures, to having a dream, to hard work and being personable. We consider some of the qualities that women bring to leadership including empathy and compassion. We remark on the gains that women have achieved - a win for one of us is a win for all of us. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Ingrid Marais, who Chairs the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at UNISA, one of the largest open distance learning universities in Africa. We discuss the evolving nature of human culture and society in response to environmental changes and how human behaviour simultaneously shapes the environment. Dr. Marais remarks on some of the unique methodologies used in distance learning for distributed teaching to students across the world. We consider the lack of women in academic leadership at the level of vice chancellor, despite relatively strong representation of women in less senior posts. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Sehaam Khan the Executive Dean of Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Johannesburg. Professor Khan relays her journey, from humble beginnings living in a single room dwelling to becoming an international expert in microbiology.  She attributes a strong work ethic, self awareness, directness, and building good character as positive traits for success. She shares some of the responsibilities associated with her position as well as the faculty’s role at the university and broader engagement with the surrounding community. We discuss her passion for teaching, incorporating the five senses and taking a holistic perspective of students, which considers their mental, as well as social and physical needs. For example, at the Namibia University of Science and Technology she initiated a sustainable feeding programme for students. Professor Khan encourages people to seek opportunities and embrace them as stepping stones for the future.

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Member of Parliament from the Kingdom of Lesotho – Mamoipone Senauone, who serves her country at the Pan African Parliament. Ms Senauone sheds light on interventions in Lesotho that focus on educating girls, including free primary education, encouraging the pursuit of science and technology studies, distributing sanitary protection so that menstruation does not interrupt their schooling, and promoting the return of young mothers to attend school. We note the need to address gender-based violence as social, cultural and economic impediment to the progress of girls and women. We also look at the role of politics and the power to influence positive change through policies.

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Minister of Social Development – Susan Shabangu, who previously served as Minister of Women in the Presidency, Minister of Mineral Resources. She has been a member of parliament since the inception of South Africa’s democracy in 1994. The Department of Social Development’s main responsibility is to address the needs of vulnerable members of society and uplift them. For example, the Department issues social grants to 17 million people, 12 million are children. The Department has shifted its focus from welfare based to developmental based and to this end embraces private public partnerships. Minister Shabangu highlights some of the Department’s activities with respect to women, including education programmes that afford teenage mothers a second chance to become productive members of society, gender responsive budgeting, and preventative gender-based violence programmes. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Antje Schuhmann from the Political Studies Department at the University of the Witwatersrand, whose research areas encompass feminist theories, gender-based violence, postcolonial theory and memory politics amongst others. We discuss some of the factors that contribute to gender-based violence committed against women in South Africa, which include rising levels of socio-economic disparity, men being sidelined and retaliating against women, a history of a culture of violence, legacy effects of colonialism and apartheid. We debate the representation of women in parliament, comparing some countries in the West with countries in Africa, noting that countries with more recently formed constitutions are more contextually relevant and have greater numbers of women in their parliaments. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Minister of Science and Technology – Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, whose cabinet career has also seen her serve as Minister of Communications and Minister of Energy. Minister Kubayi-Ngubane highlights recent developments in Science and Technology, particularly in the space sector. We speculate about the impact that the 4th Industrial Revolution (#4IR) will have on the economy and evolution of new industries; emphasising that programmes should be directed to support South Africa’s triple challenges of unemployment, inequality and poverty. The Department of Science and Technology recognises that its sector represents the future of work and therefore it is vital that girls participate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects to the highest level. However, to keep girls in this subject stream requires financial aid, support structures, experiential opportunities and exposure to potential careers. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia – Loide Kasingo, who has served as Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, as well as Deputy Minister of Regional and Local Government and Housing, and Vice President of the Pan African Parliament. Ms Kasingo highlights some of the work she is engaged with at the Pan African Parliament, such as female upliftment, youth empowerment and ensuring Africa’s natural resources benefit its people. Ms Kasingo remarks on the need to recognise women’s unpaid labour in the home. We reflect on female leadership in Namibia, and the increased participation of women in politics, especially the ruling party, and the prospects of a female president in the next election.

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Ambassador of Norway to South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Madagascar and Lesotho – Dr. Astrid Emilie Helle. We discuss some aspects of her work, and Norway’s focus on addressing global issues which become common agendas to advance both local and international efforts in various domains. Norway has some specific women empowerment programmes that it facilitates in Africa through a rights based approach, covering five key pillars: access to education; sexual and reproductive health; political empowerment of women; economic empowerment of women; and addressing gender based violence. Female political leadership is prominent in Norway. The current Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Speaker of Parliament are all women. Ambassador Helle shares some of the contributing factors that allowed pioneering women to lead, such as being a country where democracy and human rights are important and inequalities are limited. We talk about some important mechanism to equip women, such as education, being resilient, coping with setbacks, building confidence, stepping up to opportunities and not trying to be superwomen. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Tourism – Elizabeth Thabethe, who has been a member of parliament since 2014. She reflects on some of parliament’s outcomes during South Africa’s transition into democracy, such as changing almost every law in the country and establishing a constitution with a human rights culture. She reminds us that up until 1993 women were treated as minors, requiring permission from their husbands to open bank accounts, to apply for credit and to own a business. Minister Thabethe’s earlier career as a trade unionist set her on the path to fight for women’s rights. During her tenure as Deputy Minister of Small Business as well as Deputy Minister of Tourism she has promoted and facilitated women’s empowerment via programmes developed in the ministries that have resulted in successful female owned businesses. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration – Dr. Chana Pilane-Majake through a gender lens. Dr. Pilane-Majake discusses the inclusion of gender focal points in every office of government to mainstream gender and the importance of cascading this philosophy into business to attain their commitment for gender transformation. We reflect on some landmark cases during Dr. Chana Pilane-Majake’s term as CEO with the Gender Equality Commission, encompassing feminization of poverty, primogeniture and the right for women to receive inheritance, engagements with advertising authority standards on the portrayal of women in the media, and other work that contributes to improving the lives of women in South Africa. Dr. Chana Pilane-Majake highlights the need to create or resuscitate national gender instruments to advance the status of women. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Minister of Public Service and Administration – Ayanda Dlodlo about prior milestones in her diverse career, spanning private and public sectors. We discuss key developments planned for the department from establishing a fully fledged government employee housing scheme to the role of the African Peer Review Mechanism to foster accountability and good governance across the continent. Minister Dlodlo highlights government as a trend setter with respect to gender representation and pay parity, which ideally should flow over into the private sector. We remark on the need to strive for gender parity across the board and the implementation of effective penalization for non-compliance. We look forward to a world where women hold more positions of power and leadership. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Mboni Mohamed Mhita – Member of Parliament Tanzania for the Handeni Vijijini Constituency, who has a special interest on youth. We acknowledge that Africa has a burgeoning youth population who experience different challenges to their counterparts in other continents. Education is a priority to upskill and empower, but current education systems are flawed with respect to preparing students for a world of self-employment. We address some of the programs that Tanzania has in place with respect to girls to promote their education, providing access to schools as well as sanitary protection during menstruation. We raise the point of creating space for women and carving out a common agenda to elect more women into positions of leadership. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Jessye Lapenn - Chargé d’Affaires at the United States of America Mission about a few aspects in her portfolio in relation to women development. We discuss some of the key youth outreach projects that focus on leadership development, and emphasis that young people want to be included in policy discussions that impact them to derive suitable solutions. We mention the United States’ recent pledge of R16bn to help control HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa, noting that every week 1200 girls are infected by this disease. We talk about trade opportunities, like AGOA (Africa Growth Opportunity Act) for female entrepreneurs in Africa to take advantage of. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Claire Johnston lead singer of iconic South African music group Mango Groove. We reflect on the band’s longevity, as an 11 member multi-ethnic group, which came together under the Apartheid regime and is now celebrating the 30th anniversary of their debut album. We discuss some of the inequalities that women still have to overcome, such as pay disparity to issues of poor self esteem. We comment on social movements like “MeToo” as activism aimed at putting an end to disparaging and abusive behaviour that undermines women and their talent. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Nazereen Captieux-Bhana the CEO of eDeaf (www.edeaf.co.za), an organisation that she founded in 2007 which focuses on training and empowering the Deaf for job placements in industry. We talk about her career journey as well as the barriers and challenges she has experienced as a deaf woman. Nazereen provides insight into the Deaf community such as establishing identity and belonging. This segment of the population is underserved across the spectrum, from inadequate media options to underqualified interpreters to poor access to services to the need to increase the availability of specialised quality education. Nazereen emphasises that deaf people are capable of doing anything, but attitudes of both hearing and deaf people need to shift to open thinking and recognise opportunities. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr. Alicia Girón the Coordinator of the University Program for Asian and African Studies from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. We talk about women and financialisation, encompassing aspects of empowerment, entrepreneurship and access to finance. We discuss components of the micro-finance value chain loop including institutional investors that lend and profit from this service. Dr Girón also talks about feminist economics, the care economy and the role of public policy and the State in terms of support structures to enable women’s economic participation and financial independence. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Noni “She Bee Stingin” Tenge who is a five time World Champion boxer. Noni was part of a group of five women that pioneered female boxing in South Africa, whose activism succeeded to change the Boxing Act and permit women to box in this country. She shares some of the highlights in her career as well as the challenges she faced in her decision to pursue a male dominated sport. We speak about sport as a tool to develop values of discipline, focus and commitment, particularly in the youth. Noni is passionate about developing women in sport and fighting against women abuse throughout the continent. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Bukiwe “the Anaconda” Nonina who is the current World Boxing Federation Champion of the Bantamweight division and also holds the title of best female boxer in South Africa. Bukiwe shares her passion for boxing and her exceptional family support system whose collective team spirit helps to realise her goals. She remarks on how she turns failure into success by consciously analysing mistakes to overcome weaknesses. Women’s boxing is a growing sport that needs to be developed. Beyond the intensive physical training, boxing teaches discipline, endurance, confidence and self-esteem. In closing Bukiwe urges women to focus, to never choose a career over education and to respect themselves. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Buhlebendalo Mda vocalist of award-winning South African a capella music group The Soil. Buhle cites the soundtrack of township life in Soweto - from mums and neighbours gossiping in kitchens, to commuters trundling in taxis and trains, to uncles clinking glasses in bars - as sounds that informed The Soil’s unique a capella genre labelled Kasi Soul. We discuss the role of musicians beyond entertainment to one of influence that voices social issues and public truths; a power which should be exercised responsibly. In addition to her music, Buhle has a social initiative called Soil Sista Projects which looks to fill the emotional void that many high school children experience as a result of their parents and teachers neglecting their needs. In closing Buhle reminds women to be true themselves, believe in themselves and support each other. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Dee Smythe, a Professor of Public Law and Deputy Dean for Research in the Law Faculty at the University of Cape Town about her work in the gender space. We speak about findings from her book, titled “Rape Unresolved”, which considers view points of both women activitists and police regarding high attrition of rape cases in South Africa and some of the reasoning for low conviction rates of this crime. In terms of women in leadership Prof Smythe highlights mentorship as a pivotal mechanism to transfer both tacit and explicit knowledge to aid learning curves, as well as strong networks that simultaneously challenge and provide support. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises Ms Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe about some of the responsibilities in this role. She highlights a few core infrastructure projects that the energy and rail freight sectors are undertaking to increase capacity and unlock economic benefits. Ms Mnganga-Gcabashe outlines some of South Africa’s female friendly policies in relation to empowerment and equality and the necessity of implementing these policies to overcome gender disparity. She also draws attention to the importance of formal and informal education as tools to empower women to help them overcome socio-cultural challenges. Tune in for more…

This episode of Womanity is dedicated to the memory of Mr Lungi Daweti, Channel Africa’s programme manager, who was at the inception of Womanity; his spirit will forever live on in this show. So in his honour this is the first interview he co-ordinated for Womanity, with renowned musician and humanitarian Yvonne Chaka Chaka. We discuss some of her career highlights and the contributions of music and musicians in social causes, such as campaigning for freedom and equality, whether in the course of South Africa’s own liberation struggle or other global issues. We address aspects of her humanitarian work, as a Goodwill Ambassador for Malaria in Africa, and the effects of sustainable initiatives designed to empower disenfranchised women on the continent. We raise the topic of knowledge and education as critical elements towards women’s development, emphasising lifelong learning, and much more…

Today’s broadcast of Womanity-Women in Unity closes out 2018, and we use this episode to celebreate African female leadership with special compilations that include extracts from conversations with two former African female presidents. Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim who was the sixth president and the first female president of the Republic of Mauritius and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia who served as the country’s 24th president and first elected female head of state. They share some of their accomplishments in office and aspirations for the future of women leadership in Africa. Tune in for more.

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Tourism Ms Lusizo Makhubela-Mashele about some of the responsibilities in this role. Tourism contributes to almost 10% of South Africa’s GDP and accounts for approximately 10% of the country’s workforce with a value chain that cuts across the spectrum, especially in hospitality, transport and agriculture sectors. Ms Makhubela-Mashele speaks about the rise of township and rural tourism in conjunction with tourist demand for cultural tourism and the positive effect these offerings have on empowering women in these spaces. We remark on the impact of ICT as a multidirectional enabler connecting the global village and services like AirBnB benefiting developing markets too. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed. We discuss a few of her memorable achievements at the United Nation, in particular the process of bringing member states together to develop the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring that no one in the global village is left behind in the pursuit of sustained global prosperity. She emphasises how SDG5, the gender goal, is a docking station for the other 16 goals. We address the role of business with respect to climate action, reducing emissions, job creation and modifying their business models to respond to the challenges. We discuss women in leadership and the importance of exposing young people to opportunities to develop their careers. The Deputy Secretary-General also reflects on aspects of her personal journey to the United Nations from her beginnings in Nigeria. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Judge Nicoline Janse van Nieuwenhuizen from the Gauteng Division of the High Court. She recounts some of the milestones in her career which led to her becoming a high court judge, and the tremendous responsibilities associated with this role. She shares some of her memorable cases, highlighting the empathy she brings into the courtroom, reminding us of the human element. She notes the gender split in her division is currently weighted 40% female to 60% male, which shows a marked increase in the number of female judges, up from 30% in 2013 for the country. She reflects on the impact of public demand on the gender composition of the counsel they choose to represent them. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Judge Wendy Hughes from the Gauteng Division of the High Court. She relays her journey into the legal profession and shares the process of becoming a judge – resulting in independent individuals who mete out the law without fear or favour. She highlights some landmark cases in her career such as state capture. We discuss the evolution of the South African legal system founded on Roman Dutch law into a hybrid judicial system to take account of customary laws, traditional values, the environment and other factors. Judge Hughes reflects on her upbringing, family and values as enablers. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Judge Cynthia Pretorius from the Gauteng Division of the High Court. We discuss some of the milestones in her career, from breaking glass ceilings and opening doors for other women to rise through the judiciary, to memorable cases such as the spy tapes, ponzi schemes and infanticide. Judge Pretorius illustrates through personal example, by starting her pupillage at the age of 45, that the door to education is always open and takes people ahead. She remarks that nowadays there are fewer barriers for women to overcome but they should embrace the opportunities that come their way. Tune in for more….

This week in the first part of Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Ms Kamina Johnson-Smith the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade for Jamaica about some of her country’s foreign trade policies and domestic activities. We highlight, for example, interventions that have been implemented to allow for the re-integration of teen mothers into the school system, changing the narrative from a moralistic discussion to one of human rights and economic costs to the country. Minister Johnson-Smith remarks on positive outcomes of Jamaica’s national gender policy which led to Jamaica, per capita, having the highest number of female managers in the world. In the second part of the show we are joined by Ms Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who is the Deputy Prime Minister of Namibia, as well as the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of Namibia, and Vice-President of Namibia’s ruling party SWAPO, who shares some of the programmes she has driven to advocate for women’s empowerment and rights in Namibia, including establishing the Ministry for Women and gender budgeting for each ministry to ensure that they consider how the outcomes of their budgets impact on the lives of women. Tune in for more….

This week on Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Ms Kamina Johnson-Smith, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade for Jamaica, about some of her country’s foreign trade policies and domestic activities. We highlight, for example, interventions that have been implemented to allow for the re-integration of teen mothers into the school system, changing the narrative from a moralistic discussion to one of human rights and economic costs to the country. Minister Johnson-Smith remarks on positive outcomes of Jamaica’s national gender policy which led to Jamaica, per capita, having the highest number of female managers in the world.

This week on Womanity - Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Ambassador to Madagascar, Ms Maud Vuyelwa Dlomo. We discuss some of the highlights in her early career with the Department of International Relations, such as integrating and re-educating diplomats in 1994 to serve in a new democratic South Africa; introducing young cadets into the talent pipeline as enthusiastic agents of change, with fresh perspectives to represent the country; and starting a programme for women in peace and security – remarking on the importance of establishing peaceful, stable, conflict free, environments to attract investors. Ambassador Dlomo shares some of the cultural difference exhibited by different countries, particularly elements that infringe on women’s rights and inhibit their development. She mentions an example of a project that young Malagasy women have undertaken which tackles issues of political identity, as well as economic development and the role of women contributing to their country. Ambassador Dlomo reminds us that women stand better together, as a united front and that this is our time, the future is bright. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s High Commissioner to Sir Lanka, Ms Robina Marks. We discuss how she is redefining the role of modern day diplomats as networkers and facilitators that are promoting what our country has to offer to the world and in so doing contributing to President Ramaphosa’s goal of raising foreign or domestic investment into South Africa to the tune of US$100bn. High Commissioner Marks reflects on her career noting the importance of possessing a strong set of values and principles to find ways to influence and impact on the world to make it a better place. We note some of the work she has been involved in regarding gender equality, such as mentorship programmes that she introduced into the Department of International Relations and Co-operation – to lift as you climb, and bringing sister to sister solidarity groups of women from different countries together. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s High Commissioner to New Zealand Ms Vuyiswa Tulelo. We discuss some aspects in her portfolio, such as strengthening inter-country relationships, promoting investment for South Africa, fulfilling civic duties for South African immigrants living in New Zealand, and serving as a role model – not just for South Africa – but Africa too. In our conversation about women in leadership, High Commissioner Tulelo remarks that having a female head of state does not guarantee gender parity across the board. Changing the discourse and empowerment of women comes from socialisation in the home, the influence of education systems on youth, from women driving change within themselves and using their voice to speak up for the collective. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, who was the 6th President and the First Female President of the Republic of Mauritius. She takes us through her three lives of scientist, entrepreneur and president. We talk about some of the attributes she introduced into her term of office, which fuelled her drive to empower youth to embrace science and technology tools and become job creators not job seekers. We differentiate between women in leadership and women in power, with the latter being the catalyst to drive effective change to enable women on the continent. The number of women in power continues to erode, which means the base line is constantly reset and critical mass cannot be attained to drive meaningful change. Women have a responsibility to be role models and help one another for the betterment of womenkind. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Daleen Alexander (head of undergraduate affairs at the Department of Psychology) Dr Jaishika Seedat (head of the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology), and Dr. Simangele Mayisela (head of transformation), from the School of Human and Community Development at WITS University. In this two part series we consider some of the interventions that can be used to counter gender discrimination, such as moving past self-limiting beliefs; developing passion, vision and perseverance; creating unity amongst women for support; promoting mentorship; implementing policies to achieve transformation; and ensuring equal access for opportunity. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Daleen Alexander (head of undergraduate affairs at the Department of Psychology) Dr Jaishika Seedat (head of the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology), and Dr. Simangele Mayisela (head of transformation), from the School of Human and Community Development at WITS University. In this two part series we firstly consider some of the factors that contribute towards gender discrimination, such as: children introduced to genderised roles in childhood; sexualised stereotyping and expectations of women and men to perform particular tasks; cultural norms and the history of the country impacting on behaviour; insufficient knowledge of one’s rights and poor enactment of protective policies. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the newly appointed President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), who is the organisation’s first female president, Ms Zingiswa Losi. We highlight some of COSATU’s objectives to unite workers, promote international solidarity and liberate workers, especially women from poverty, inequality and unemployment. We discuss Ms Losi’s appointment as an important milestone in women’s leadership and her intent for more women to occupy strategic positions in their respective trade unions and society in general. We reflect on pivotal moments that shaped her development and contributed to her career path. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Prof. Nasima Carrim, from the Department of Human Resources at the University of Pretoria. Prof. Carrim’s research interests include diversity management; specifically topics related to culture, religion, gender in management, identity and intersectionality. We discuss some of her ethnic identity studies covering generational attitudes towards traditional and modern value systems and the impact on women’s professional career development. We reflect on her research into Indian female breadwinners and cultural power in their families. We unpack some of the factors that impede women’s ascent up the corporate ladder, such as underdeveloped networking skills. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Daleen Alexander, who heads up undergraduate studies at the Department of Psychology, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand. Dr Alexander has a dual career as an academic and practitioner in psychology with specific interests on the impact of gender on people's career trajectories as well as career conflict experienced by women from diversity backgrounds. We unpack some of the psychological aspects that hinder women’s career progress, such as socialisation that perpetuates gender role stereotypes; real as well as perceived biases; and poor self-efficacy. We remark on the importance of developing self awareness, as well as drawing on internal motivation and external support to overcome challenges. Tune in for more…

This week on Womanity-Women In Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Communication Ms Pinky Kekana. We discuss the importance of ICT in South Africa’s future and the role of government to facilitate access to 21st century technology across society to optimise businesses, generate new employment opportunities, revolutionise content platforms, transform the communication space, and promote equitable participation in the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR). New technology will replace dated methods of working, which necessitates digital literacy, coding and e-learning programs for both young and old. The Deputy Minister shares some of the factors that have contributed to her development, from family support to a network of friends who mutually pushed one another to excel. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Vice-President of the Pan African University and Dean of the Mamelodi Campus University of Pretoria - Professor Nthabiseng Audrey Ogude. We discuss some of the intrinsics of the institution’s anchor strategy which inextricably links the future of the community of Mamelodi with that of the University’s Mamelodi campus. One arm of this strategy is to implement interventions that stem the cycle of poverty, for instance by focussing on education and broadening academic pathways for members of the community. Prof. Ogude describes the Pan African University as a human capital initiative with five regional specialised research nodes. Governance, Social Sciences and Humanities in Central Africa; Basic Sciences in East Africa; Life Sciences in West Africa; Water and Energy in North Africa; and shortly Space Sciences will be created in South Africa. We address some of the factors that contribute to women in leadership, including the need for people to recognise potential leaders and encourage their growth into leadership roles; the need for individuals to shadow leaders; the importance of exercising leadership effectively in whatever sphere one occupies; and to have a supportive environment particularly in the home. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Transport - Lydia Sindisiwe Chikunga – who shares some of the factors that contributed to her pursuit of a career in politics, which ignited in childhood, stemmed from the recognition of deep social injustices and a need to fight the system which rendered the black population unable to fully access resources and participate meaningfully in the economy. The Deputy Minister relays some of her experiences as a young nursing student participating in ANC youth league structures to spread party communications to households, citing an occasion where their mission was to ensure that black students enrolled for matric subjects at higher grade not standard grade, in order for them to attain matric exemption and university admission. We also discuss the South African Network for Women in Transport which concerns breaking barriers for women to enter the transport sector and the myriad of career opportunities available in this field. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who is the Deputy Prime Minister of Namibia, as well as the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of Namibia, and Vice-President of Namibia’s ruling party SWAPO - who retraces some of the steps in her enduring political career. We discuss the liberation movement in Namibia and its strategic focus areas post independence, on education, health, housing and agriculture. The Deputy Prime Minister shares some of the inroads that Namibia has made regarding women’s rights and their empowerment, including the national gender policy, pay parity and holding leadership positions across the public and private spectrum. We remark on the need to change stereotypical attitudes about gender roles to alter perceptions of women’s capabilities. The Deputy Prime Minister reminds us that the future is female. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to reigning Miss SA Tamaryn Green about the 2018 Miss SA pageant, which celebrated its Diamond Jubilee (60th anniversary) this year, and the responsibilities and privileges associated with being Miss SA. We discuss some of the women’s empowerment work Tamaryn is involved with, through her sponsors, like Cell C’s Take A Girl Child to Work programme, which has evolved from one day to a more enduring platform that offers information and guidance to young women to transition into capable empowered adults, and her own forthcoming initiative where she plans to combine health and education into a campaign. We talk about some of the factors that have contributed to her success, from support structures, to having a dream, to hard work and being personable. We consider some of the qualities that women bring to leadership including empathy and compassion. We remark on the gains that women have achieved - a win for one of us is a win for all of us. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to award winning musician Wanda Baloyi. We discuss some of the landmarks in her career, which started osmotically when she accompanied her father to studio, but officially launched with her debut group Ghetto-Luv to her latest upcoming project that delves into her roots. We recognise the important role musicians play in society as influencers, sometimes positively, other times negatively, but maintain that the interpretation of the message rests in the ears of the listener. We note the imperfections and disparity that persist for women, emphasising the need for women to find social and economic independence in order to gain their voice. Wanda reflects on the instrumental role her mother has played and the values she instilled of hard work, independence and respect for the person next to you. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Former President of Liberia – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. We discuss some of the qualitative achievements that her administration accomplished during her tenure, such as maintaining peace, giving women a voice, and hope to a nation that was in despair. In terms of women in leadership President Johnson Sirleaf remarks that women are always under the microscope, that most environments have been dominated by male leadership, yet women have demonstrated determination to lead in all levels of society: at home, in the church, in business, in politics etc… She further emphasises, that societies where women have been given the opportunity, are societies that succeed. We recap some of her contributions that led to her receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of her years of work with women, such as her 50, 500, 5000 program: to construct or repair 50 schools, train 500 teachers, and award 5000 bursaries to school girls. We also discuss her agenda for the future, part of which includes establishing a centre for women who aspire to leadership and developing women in the economic sphere to move their business to scale through access to technology and finance. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Tunisia to South Africa - Narjes Dridi. We discuss the challenges as well as achievements that Tunisian women have experienced in their journey to empowerment, tracing back to the first queen of Carthage (ancient Tunisia), circa 800BC. Ambassador Dridi emphasises the paradigm shift of 1956 which led to a modernisation of culture in Tunisia with the introduction of Acts for the emancipation and empowerment of women. This legislation gave women the right to divorce, to vote, to receive an education, to work, abolished polygamy, raised the legal age of marriage to 18 etc… As a result of this enabling legislation, today women in Tunisia account for 34% of parliament, 43% of judges, 40% of doctors and 50% of pharmacists. Importantly this type of legislation cannot be allowed to regress, and further progress must allow for the protection of the gains women have made and the advancements to come, for an empowered women is also an empowered man. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Mexico to South Africa - Ana Luisa Fajer. We discuss some of the milestones in her three decade career as a diplomat with a special interest in Africa that began during her tertiary studies. We consider the impact that gender parity legislation in political parties had in Mexico’s 2018 general elections, after its introduction just four years earlier. We discuss women’s participation in the labour force, remarking on prevailing inequalities experienced by women, which impacts on their earnings, types of roles and advancing up their respective career ladders. We remark on the role of education as a tool of empowerment for women, not only in the formal sense but also informally on the home-front to readdress social and culture perspectives of women to advocate for gender equality. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Maryna Steyn – Head of School: Anatomical Sciences Faculty of Health Sciences WITS University. We discuss her work in forensic anthropology, which primarily involves the analysis of human remains and identification of individuals. We reflect on some of her notable cases and the applications of technology to advance the discipline. For example, progression in craniofacial recognition techniques investigated the identity of Mbuyisa Makhubu vs Victor Vinnetou; developing criteria for ageing applications in living people to determine if they are over or under the age of 18, has had significant implications in the judicial system as well as migration and refugee status. We recall her studies of skeletal remains from Mapungubwe, a 1000 year-old archaeological site in Limpopo. We note the rising feminisation of the medical students and emphasise the importance of building a talent pipeline of women to feed into leadership posts. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the incoming Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town - Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng. We discuss some of her strategic plans for the university when she assumes office, particularly in the areas of transformation and the university’s role in Africa to deepen its links with the continent. We discuss some of the barriers hindering women’s advancement in leadership, such as being judged against a different set of criteria in comparison to men, and competing under circumstances where the goalposts keep shifting. We underscore the need to change limiting perspectives around academic subjects like mathematics and science and instead emphasise the usefulness if these disciplines in society to encourage people to study these fields, which have a profound impact on the world. Prof. Phakeng shares details about the adopt-a-learner foundation that she established to help students from townships and rural areas to attain tertiary education. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Telecommunications & Postal Services Ms Stella Tembisa Ndabeni-Abrahams. She previously served as the Deputy Minister of the Department of Communications from 2014 to 2017. She has been a member of several portfolio committees including Communication and Defence, and has been a member of parliament since 2009. She discusses some of the developments she has undertaken in her portfolio to improve Internet connectivity and device accessibility in rural schools; empowerment initiatives to encourage women to pursue careers in ICT; and the 2019-2030 plans to build an army for South Africa to thrive in the 4th Industrial Revolution. We discuss the role of education and networking as important tools to advance women. The Deputy Minister shares her personal journal from humble beginnings to managing a vital portfolio that will form a critical part of the country’s future economy, forms Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Nicole Ferreira-Dill, principal dancer of the Joburg Ballet. She shares insights into this classical art-form through her personal experiences and journey to the pinnacle of her career. We discuss the dynamics of training to perfect performances, collaborating with a company comprising of dancers from different countries and cultures (South Africa, Australia, Cuba, Brazil etc…), channelling different energies onto the stage, developing mental stamina and physical strength. We recognise that ballet is a predominantly female profession, with ballerinas taking the lead role in performances, which contrasts to other mixed gender occupations, where men typically occupy the principal role. We discuss the importance of support structures during challenging periods and celebrating successes in pursuit of one’s dreams. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Professor Helen Rees – Founder and Executive Director of the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute of the University of Witwatersrand. The institute’s core focal areas encompass HIV, sexual and reproductive health and vaccine preventable diseases. Prof. Rees highlights some of the developments in the vaccination of pregnant women to transfer immunity to their babies, as well as new HIV prevention technologies such as the use of anti-retroviral drugs to prevent HIV. Prof. Rees remarks on some of the awards that she has received in recognition for her contribution to national health policy and global health. Prof. Rees reflects on aspects of South Africa’s transformation noting some of the challenges she experienced in a mixed race marriage in the struggle against Apartheid. On issues of women’s advancement she notes there should be a more concerted effort towards establishing global and national movements to ensure that women’s voices are heard, that their issues are addressed, and their presence in leadership grows. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka about UN Women’s activities in five priority areas to advance gender equality, which include increasing women’s leadership and participation; ending violence against women; engaging women in peace and security processes; enhancing women’s economic empowerment; and making gender equality an essential part of national development planning and budgeting. Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka, draws attention to campaigns such as HeforShe which encourages constructive masculinity for men to stand up for women, as well as Impact 10x10x10 where heads of state champion a gender issue of their choice, for instance the President of Malawi is focussing on child marriage; ultimately these campaigns seek to get men to take responsibility in the fight against gender inequality. We mention the role of technology as a game changer in the innovation stakes, but remark that efforts must be undertaken to ensure equal access to prevent a digital divide. Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka also shares some highlights of her address for the 9th Thabo Mbeki Africa Day lecture on gender equality and women empowerment. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Dr. Tomoko Kitagawa who is visiting South Africa with a lecture series called “The Lady Samurai”, The Role of Women in the Diplomacy during the Unification of Japan. We discuss the application of Dr Kitagawa’s work for women in contemporary society recognising the contribution of their consultative and diplomacy skills in peacemaking and negotiating. We consider economic empowerment of women noting that women must be given the space to work and realise their full potential. Dr Kitagawa remarks that household economics need a makeover, where traditionally unpaid work, such as child rearing and home cleaning, becomes paid work, and thus creates economic opportunity. Education has taken Dr Kitagawa around the world; we emphasise education as a key enabler for women’s development and contend that it should be incorporated into every women’s schedule, even if this means embarking on part-time learning to balance multiple commitments, in order to acquire essential knowledge and new skills.

This week we talk to Professor Judith Bruce who is the Head of the School of Therapeutic Sciences at WITS University about some of the complexities of managing the many different disciplines clustered under the School of Therapeutic Sciences in such a way they maintain their individual identities. We discuss literacy as a vital tool in people’s lives for earning potential and highlight the importance of a conducive environment for girls to excel in their learning paths. Prof. Bruce remarks on the influence that female leaders have on the career aspirations of women, but the number of women in leadership roles is far below critical mass. The intersection of patriarchy, poverty, gender are often impediments to women rising into leadership roles. However, today’s female leaders cannot passively wait for things to change, they have to develop self-reliance and agency to make things happen for themselves and in the process take other women forward with them. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Professor Heidi Abrahamse who is the Director of the Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Johannesburg and holds the DST/NRF SARChI Chair for Laser Applications in Health. Professor Abrahamse is leading efforts to investigate the field of phototherapy with specific emphasis on Low Intensity Laser Irradiation (LILI) or Photobiomodulation (PBM), Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), Phyto-Photodynamic Therapy (P-PDT) and Stem Cell Therapy. We discuss some of the applications of laser therapy to treat cancer tumours, pain relief and wound healing (particularly in diabetes) and its growing role in clinical practice. We reflect on the positive outcome that transformation efforts have had on the opportunity space for women, allowing them to develop and achieve on an equal footing to men across the spectrum. We note the importance of mentors and role models to aid the development of women in their career paths. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Ms Safiatou Ndiaye, the Ambassador of Senegal to South Africa and 10 other countries in southern Africa about women in politics. We discuss some of the traits women need to develop, such as resilience, courage, strength of character and self-confidence, to endure the challenges of politics. We acknowledge that gender power dynamic discrepancies still prevail within political parties, which can sometimes make it difficult for people to accept female leaders. We remark on the ability of politics to effect positive change, noting for example in Senegal that now: gender parity has been attained in parliament; women and men pay the same tax rates; and women have the right to pass their nationality on to their children. We reflect on the roles of female leaders and the need to continue their legacy into the future to keep striving for the betterment of society.

This week we talk to Professor Daynia Ballot who is the Head of Clinical Medicine at Wits University; this school hosts nine major departments (Family medicine, Paediatrics, Surgery, Internal medicine, Radiation sciences, Neurosciences, Anaesthesia, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Psychiatry). Prof Ballot shares some of the responsibilities in this position, and few of her research interests, in particular studying babies born with very low birth rates (less than 1500g) and associated risk factors in order to develop interventions to help their survival. She remarks on the importance of caring mothers to support and nurture their infants during this period. In our discussion on gender equality Prof Ballot highlights the need to win hearts and minds to accelerate change and recognises the role that men play in this endeavour; she also suggests that work spaces could be more accommodating to women with children, for example by offering child care facilities. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Veronica McKay executive Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of South Africa (UNISA). This institution is responsible for producing half of South Africa’s educators and over one-third of all tertiary graduates in the country. We discuss some of the educational initiatives that Prof. McKay has been involved in, such as the South African Literacy Campaign, Kha Ri Gude (meaning Let Us Learn), which targeted 4.7 million adults to become literate, and empowered them not only with knowledge but self-confidence, grit and resilience. We acknowledge humanity’s capacity to unlearn dogmas and re-evaluate the way that we think about issues. We consider how this ability has aided the progression of women’s rights in the workplace, highlighting the education sector by way of example. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Sarah Gravett, the executive Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of Johannesburg. We discuss some of the work that the university undertakes with respect to developing educators who are not only well-equipped to teach, but also possess a strong social responsibility to their wards. We address the need to improve perceptions of foundation level teachers who are instrumental in shaping young minds. We acknowledge that in the knowledge era, information is freely available and teachers are no longer the “sage on the stage”, they have to be enablers that show students how to use knowledge creatively and productively. We reflect on some of the prevailing gender gaps in society, such as pay imbalances and barriers to career advancement for women. We raise awareness of the fact that some women are still constrained by cultural expectations and ingrained patriarchy, which prevents them from embracing opportunities. We emphasise that successful women have a duty to empower other women and support them in pursuit of success. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Roze Philips, the Managing Director of Management Consulting Africa at Accenture. We discuss some aspects of her career and her drive to bring global capabilities into the continent with an emphasis to uplift and empower women into leadership positions. We consider the role of leadership and quotas as intervention mechanisms to drive equality across all levels of an organisation, with a long-term perspective on generating value to multiple stakeholders as opposed to a short-term focus on shareholders only. We remark on the responsibility that individuals who break through glass ceilings have to pull others up with them. We also highlight the importance of ordinary people taking actionable steps and making meaningful contributions to society. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Danish Minister for Development Cooperation - Ulla Tørnæs. We discuss some of the factors that motivated her career in politics and some memorable milestones. Minister Tørnæs notes that a key priority for her ministry is to express the voice of the millions of women and girls around the world who are either not able to express their voice, or enjoy equal rights and opportunities for equitable economic participation. We highlight aspects of the World Bank’s We-Fi initiative to facilitate access to capital for female entrepreneurs. We also discuss the SheDecides movement, which aims to mobilise a strong political voice for women to have access to family planning and contraception facilities, and have the ability to make their own decisions about their reproductive rights. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to multi-award winning actress, singer and songwriter Nondumiso Tembe. We discuss some of the forces that helped to shape her career in the performing arts, ranging from supportive parents, to developing self confidence, and a passion for emotive storytelling. We hear about some of the characters that she has played and her desire to tell stories about real, relatable, multi-dimensional, dynamic, complicated women; and her deliberate choice not to undertake work that perpetuates negative stereotypes – whether about women or Africans. We talk about the role of education to fine tune one’s craft and aspire for excellence. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Lilianne Ploumen, a Dutch politician with the Labour Party, currently serving as a member of parliament in the Netherlands, she was the former Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of Netherlands and is the founder of SheDecides. We discuss the role of education (formal and informal) and an appetite for continued learning as a ticket for a better future. We unpack the purpose and milestones of the SheDecides movement which in less than year has garnered support from more than 60 countries across the globe to amplify women’s voices. We also talk about the steps of putting in motion a bill to close the gender pay gap in the Netherlands, which makes employers responsible for paying equal salaries their employees for work of equal value, irrespective of gender. Tune in for more…

This week in recognition of International Women’s Day, today, 8th March 2018, celebrated under the theme, “Press of Progress”, we reflect on some of the catalysts that have driven, and are driving women’s rights. In today’s panel we are joined by to Ms Lilianne Ploumen, a Dutch politician with the Labour Party, currently serving as a member of parliament in the Netherlands, she was the former Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of Netherlands and is the founder of SheDecides; and Ms Marisa Gerards who is the Ambassador of the Netherlands to South Africa. We discuss some of the recent movements like SheDecides, HeforShe, MeToo, Not in my name, that focus on issues of inequality, power differentials, unequal pay, sexual harassment, gender based violence and improving solidarity amongst all to advance equality. Men and women live on the planet together, they should run it together. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to multi-award winning actress, singer and songwriter Nondumiso Tembe. We discuss some of the forces that helped to shape her career in the performing arts, ranging from supportive parents, to developing self confidence, and a passion for emotive storytelling. We hear about some of the characters that she has played and her desire to tell stories about real, relatable, multi-dimensional, dynamic, complicated women; and her deliberate choice not to undertake work that perpetuates negative stereotypes – whether about women or Africans. We talk about her recent role as Joyce in the revival of King Kong and reflect on re-enacting an important part of South African cultural history depicting lives and sentiment of the era. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Jane Raphaely Chairperson of Associated Media Publishing, which publishes both internationally acclaimed, and South African brands, ranging from Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, WOW, House and Leisure, Good Housekeeping/Goeie Huishouding, H&L Renovations, H&L Food, SA Lingerie to Cosmo on Campus. We discuss some of the pivotal movements that have gathered momentum in the last 12-months to advance women’s rights of equality and empowerment, such as MeToo, SheDecides, HeforShe, and Impact 10x10x10. We mention the rise of alignments, like those established between Marie Claire and Business Women’s Association to develop action plans for women heading up companies to jointly target issues that are holding women back, moving from merely talking about problems to taking resolutions. We recognise that justice for women requires men to be part of the delivery and not the problem. In closing we acknowledge that positive changes for women are not only possible but probable. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to 2017 MTV Africa Music Award pop /R&B vocalist Shekhinah Donnell. We discuss some of the highlights in this young musician’s career, the inspiration behind her music and her creative process. We address some of the challenges that women encounter in the entertainment industry, which impinges on their development, for example, noting the need to promote more female artists as headline performers. We remark on the responsibilities of becoming a role model for girls and being a brand ambassador for the country and continent. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Lulu Gwagwa, CEO of Lereko Investments, Chairperson of Aurecon Africa and non-executive director of FirstRand, Massmart and Sun International. We discuss some of the milestones in her career, like serving on the committee that decided South Africa’s current provincial boundaries; developing policy to transform the construction industry; and managing a R609 million job creation process. Dr Gwagwa’s work addresses issues of spatial equality and highlights the social as well as economic importance of infrastructure. We consider the low numbers of women occupying senior and executive positions in the corporate sector and explore potential interventions, notably sponsorship as a purposeful mechanism to promote talent. We emphasise the importance of education, role models, support structures, affirmation and self-belief as building blocks for success. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Sonja De Bruyn Sebotsa, who is a non-Executive Director of RMB/RMI Holdings & Co-founder of Identity Partners. Our discussion focuses on economic empowerment of women. We acknowledge the time, sacrifices and effort that were invested to ensure South African women attained their political freedoms, but in order to fully maximise those rights they need economic access. We discuss the business case for greater representation of women in the corporate sector particularly in leadership and decision-making roles - notably more diverse companies outperform less diverse organisations. Women who are seated at the table are positioned to open the doors for other women to access organisations. We recognise male champions who are committed to make the world more equal, especially those who have ambitions on behalf of their daughters to live in a world with no limits. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Linda Manzini, who is a non-Executive Director of Nedbank and founder of Lima Business Solutions. We discuss some of the thinking behind her decision to become an investment banker, including being able to unlock economic growth in various sectors and financial inclusivity via financial services - as the engine room of the economy. We consider some of the issues that women confront in leadership roles, which for the forerunners can mean navigating unchartered territories, overcoming cultural stereotypes and perceptions of inadequacy as they push new frontiers. We highlight tools to overcome these challenges, for example, coaching, mentoring, support and opening the door for more women to take a seat at boardroom tables. Ms Manzini further suggests creating a union of women, as a platform for women to stand firm, support one another, and continue developing. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Ipeleng Bogopane-Zulu. We discuss some of the Deputy Minister’s past and present accomplishments, as well as her future plans involving integrated development and sustainably changing communities. We discuss several programmes underway in the department like: food for waste, recycling, early childhood development, positive parenting, establishing shelters for men etc…The Deputy Minister shares a few factors behind her success, such as being motivated by hardships in her personal journey as a woman with a disability, establishing a group of trusted individuals to serve as a sounding board and support system, and changing environmental barriers to enable people to flourish. Tune in for more…

South Africa has many young achievers that are truly reaching for the stars, we revisit the stories of three young ladies who featured on Womanity in 2017. Dr Ncumisa Jilata who at the age of 29 became Africa’s youngest Neurosurgeon; Dr. Adriana Marais who is a Theoretical Physicist and aspiring Extraterrestrial with ambitions to rocket off to Mars. and former Miss South Africa 2017 and current Miss Universe, Ms Demi-Leigh Nel Peters, who have all dreamed big and manifested those dreams into reality. Tune in for more.

This week we reflect on episodes of the past year with a compilation of some the show’s memorable segments on women in leadership, starting with Ms Phuti Mahanyele the Executive Chairperson of Sigma Capital, and former Chief Executive Officer of the Shanduka Group, one of South Africa’s leading investment holding companies. We raise concerns about the perceived regression of women in executive roles, and postulate measures to raise the number of female executives, such as instating gender quotas and celebrating successful businesses with women in executive roles to acknowledge the positive performance of entities with women occupying leadership roles. Secondly, Professor Penelope Andrews, the Dean of the Faculty of law at the University of Cape Town, raises various impediments as barriers to women’s advancement and remarks that eradicating racism is easier than eradicating sexism against women; which may be blatant or benign, and perpetuated by women, as well as men, as they attempt to hold on to outdated stereotypical expectations of women. We note that female leadership makes a difference in the lives of girls and women, particularly when it comes to directing and influencing policy. Lastly, Margaret Hirsch, COO of Hirsch’s Homestore highlights some of the responsibilities associated with business ownership. and shares some tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, such as cautioning against taking out loans, working while others are sleeping, the importance of exercising mind and body, working hard, building networks and social capital, and embracing lifelong learning. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba. We discuss key milestones in her career, ranging from women empowerment programmes in horticulture to a roadmap for community moral regeneration that nurtures responsible citizenship. We review some of the opportunities and challenges arising from the fourth industrial revolution in relation to women’s participation in the economy. We remark on the loss of low skilled repetitive jobs in the retail sector and others, where women will be the biggest casualties. On the other hand, we consider the possibilities of prosperity through innovation and embracing technology, all the while emphasising that we must prepare and educate our youth to ready their skill sets for the future. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the High Commissioner of India to South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho – Ms Ruchira Kamboj. We discuss some of the work underway to grow inter-country relations in political, economic, trade, defence and cultural spheres, for example, the ‘Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation’ program, which aims to enhance skills in Africa. We highlight some of India’s endeavours to actively empower women, such as public programs like ‘Educate the girl child, save the girl child’; attending to inadequate sanitary infrastructure in rural areas to provide more toilets, which has dramatically reduced school dropout rates amongst teenage girls; to the all women crew circumnavigating the globe in the naval sailing vessel Tarini. We emphasise the symbolism of female achievers who have proven that boundaries can be pushed in any industry and in doing so serve as valuable role models. We note that effecting equality is neither linear nor time bound, but requires persistence, influence and continued action amongst both men and women. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Co-operation - Nomaindiya Mfeketo. We discuss how she developed her political consciousness under the tutelage of staunch ANC members from an early age, the impact of Apartheid on her life; and key highlights in her career, from roles in local government dealing directly with communities to managing people’s expectations of transformation in the process of building a new non-racist democracy in South Africa founded on equality. We emphasise that gender equality is not just for educated women, but for every woman. We consider the women empowerment efforts underway from regional players, like SADC (Southern African Development Community) and IORA (The Indian Ocean Rim Association), and how this extends to conflict resolution and stability on the continent. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to multi-award winning South African Musician Toya Delazy, who talks about her musical roots and the emergence of her unique genre of jazz electro hiphop. We discuss the inspiration behind her creativity, and acknowledge that contemporary artists “feed” off their surroundings – capturing current moods and moments in their music. We consider the debilitating effects of women abuse and the need to continue campaigning to raise awareness of this issue via bodies like UNICEF. We highlight some of Toya’s other endeavours, from voicing the first black Powerpuff Girl for Cartoon Network; to her role as champion for UNICEF’s Generation 2030 agenda to uplift African children as the future leaders of our continent; to being a descendent of Zulu royalty and the humility required for people in positions of authority. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Stergomena Tax, the Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Our conversation encompasses outcomes from 37th SADC Summit themed, “Partnering with the Private Sector in Developing Industry and Regional Value Chains”, with industrial development being a core focus of SADC’s developmental integration agenda to drive sustainable economic growth, create employment and reduce poverty. Agro-processing, mineral beneficiation, energy and pharmaceuticals were identified as priority areas to involve the private sector for effective industrialisation. We discuss women in leadership and the need for women to showcase their achievements and highlight their strengths. We review some of the developments emanating from SADC’s gender programmes, which aim to accelerate progress in the achievement of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Zou Kota-Fredericks. We discuss the human settlements portfolio in respect to women, not just from a beneficiary perspective but as economic participants in the human settlements value chain. Whether this is women directly working in the construction space to build infrastructure, or owning companies operating in this sector or those employed by peripheral departments that contribute to achieving the goals of human settlements i.e transport, town planning, etc.... We emphasise the importance of getting more women into the work place stressing the role of quotas to help level the playing field. Additionally, we speak about elements to help capacitate women, such as access to finance, developing their skills set, improving their education and implementing gender positive legislation. We raise the issue of transforming cultural stereotypes surrounding women which may prevent them from realising their full potential and for there to be greater acknowledgement of the domestic unpaid work performed largely by the female population to keep households running.

This week we talk to the High Commissioner of Uganda to South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe – Ms Barbara Nekesa Oundo about some of the priorities in her office, including an emphasis on commercial diplomacy to realise economic integration between the countries in her portfolio, in part through the alleviation of trade and infrastructure barriers to boost intra-Africa trade. High Commissioner Oundo acknowledges a few of Uganda’s interventions to promote female empowerment, such as its affirmative action provisions for women; allocating proportions of budgets to contribute to empowering women; developing gender sensitive policies and education initiatives for girls. We note that despite prevailing cultural, traditional and religious expectations of women, particularly in rural areas, through their perseverance and resilience women have the ability to succeed and demonstrate their capability. Tune in for more…..

Deputy Secretary – Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia), Penny Williams discusses highlights from the recent Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) session in Durban, which pragmatically addressed aspects like security, stability, sustainable development, prosperity and women’s empowerment in the region. We discuss the complexities surrounding gender equality in different regions around the world, acknowledging that although it is a multifaceted issue, cultural reform and education are two leading drivers for positive change. Ms Williams shares a few practical interventions that are improving gender equality and women’s empowerment, such as ‘Male Champions of Change’; men actively sponsoring women and nominating them for roles; not succumbing to the trap of presenteeism; and the passive physical inclusion of women in the work environments reflected in boardrooms named after women or photographs of female personnel. PENNY WILLAMS DR A GONEOS-MALKA - SMALL.JPG — JPG (3.8 MB)

This week’s broadcast covers the 10th Pan African Parliament’s Annual Women’s conference in October 2017, which was held under the theme “Role of Parliamentarians in promoting international and regional Human Rights instruments, especially those related to Women and Youth, Peace and Security, and Female Genital Mutilation in order to achieve the Demographic Dividend”. We feature, BALEKA MBETA Speaker for the National Assembly and Chairperson of the African National Congress; BABIRYE VERONICA KADOGO is Member of Parliament in Uganda; and HAIDARA AICHATA CISSE Chairperson of Pan African Parliament’s Women Caucus. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Ipeleng Bogopane-Zulu. We discuss some of the Deputy Minister’s past and present accomplishments, as well as her future plans involving integrated development and sustainably changing communities. We discuss several programmes underway in the department like: food for waste, recycling, early childhood development, positive parenting, establishing shelters for men etc…The Deputy Minister shares a few factors behind her success, such as being motivated by hardships in her personal journey as a woman with a disability, establishing a group of trusted individuals to serve as a sounding board and support system, and changing environmental barriers to enable people to flourish. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by South Africa’s first female Judge President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Mandisa Maya. We discuss her role and intent to diversify the bench to ensure that women are adequately represented in the South African judiciary. Justice Maya raises concerns that globally women still do not receive equal treatment in the work place, particularly in regard to pay and position, even if they are more qualified than their male counterparts. She mentions that legislation in South Africa, like the Employment Equity Act, exists to counter these types of injustices and emphasizes that people must use the courts for vindication. Women need to become more visible in the workplace and their contributions must be acknowledged; and those in positions of authority have a duty to uplift other women. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba. We discuss key milestones in her career, ranging from women empowerment programmes in horticulture to a roadmap for community moral regeneration that nurtures responsible citizenship. We review some of the opportunities and challenges arising from the fourth industrial revolution in relation to women’s participation in the economy. We remark on the loss of low skilled repetitive jobs in the retail sector and others, where women will be the biggest casualties. On the other hand, we consider the possibilities of prosperity through innovation and embracing technology, all the while emphasising that we must prepare and educate our youth to ready their skill sets for the future. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Diane Hildebrandt, who is the co-Director for the research Unit MaPS (Material and Process Synthesis) at Unisa, South Africa. We discuss some of the prominent features in her role to improve process efficiency by developing systems that are cheaper to build, cheaper to operate and less harmful to the environment, as well as her work on converting biomass from household and farming waste into energy. We highlight some of the gender challenges that she encountered in her scientific career, primarily stemming from pervasive stereotypes dictating society’s conventional expectations of girls and women. We note the need to promote creative applications of mathematics in schools to encourage girls to take up the subject as a precursor for a career in the STEM disciplines and the job market of the future. We acknowledge that for Africa to develop we need to have highly trained engineers and scientists to compete in the global village. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the High Commissioner of Kenya to South Africa, Lesetho and Swaziland, Ms Jean Njeri Kamau about some of the key responsibilities in her role, which is primarily centred around maintaining bilateral relationships between Kenya and her three designated countries, with an emphasis on trade, relationships, culture and education. High Commissioner Kamau reflects on the journey of activism taken by women to attain equal citizenship in Kenya, as well as access to decision-making positions in the public sector to advance gender equality, which was formally legislated in Kenya’s revised constitution in 2010. Affirmative action initiatives have managed to bring more women into organisations and create new opportunities for others. We note that culture, tradition and religion can be contentious because they touch people and communities personally, however discriminatory practices cannot be used as excuses to make women subordinate. Ultimately safeguarding women’s rights is everybody’s responsibility and requires robust public commitment. Tune in for more…..

This week, in recognition of Heritage Day on 24th September, Womanity Women-in-Unity presents a compilation featuring three guests who discuss heritage and the contribution of arts and culture to society. First we hear from Professor Natasha Erlank, who is an historian at the University of Johannesburg; we discuss some historic moments of importance for women and how history transitions into heritage. Next, Professor Nombeko Mpako, the Acting Director of The School of Arts at the University of South Africa and Chairperson of Department of Art History, Visual Arts and Musicology, talks about the the role of art education in youth development and concludes with an overview of some of South Africa’s successful female artists. Lastly, multi award winning singer, composer and performer Dr. Sibongile Khumalo, who is a practitioner of the Arts, addresses contributions of the arts towards humanity; emphasising cultural, social and educational contexts. Tune in for more…

This week, in our heritage series, we talk to Professor Nombeko Mpako, who is the Acting Director of the School of Arts at the University of South Africa and chair of the Department of Art History, Visual Arts and Musicology. We discuss the skills contribution of the Arts to human development, such as constructive thinking, imagination, empathy, confidence and creativity, which align to the World Economic Forum’s projected set of skills for the workforce in 2020. We note that although the Arts are compulsory subjects in school curricula, fulfilling this mandate is hampered by inadequate resources. We discuss the work of renowned female artists as well as the meaning and the objectives behind their work. We remark on the role of education and highlight the University of South Africa’s objectives to transform and afford recognition to Africanness; to embrace African knowledge, African ways of knowing and African ways of teaching to expand and expose Africa’s wisdom to the world. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Natasha Erlank, former head of the Historical Studies Department at the University of Johannesburg in our first series for Heritage month. We discuss recent poignant moments in South African history for women, highlighting the country’s transition into democracy and the march of over 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in 1956 in protest against the pass laws. We note that recorded history is typically made by the victors, and the way in which events are remembered is influenced by who is in power. We consider how history is converted to heritage as artefacts (tangible or intangible) that humanity leaves for successive generations; and discuss institutional heritage, remarking for example, how the regular re-enactment of religious rituals transmits memory through institutional experience. With respect to equality we draw attention to the need for re-energise meaningful support of the gender movement both through civic society and the state. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Venezuela to South Africa, Ms Mairin Josefina Moreno-Merida. We discuss a few of the responsibilities in her current role, and the more significant collaborations in the continent with particular emphasis on education, from primary to tertiary level; and the mining sector to contribute to the development of individuals for economic prosperity. Ambassador Moreno-Merida highlights some of Venezuela’s gender equality successes, including the country’s pro-women legislation which is designed to protect women, the mandatory child care facilities in government ministries, generous maternity benefits, and the establishment of a Ministry for Women. We draw attention the necessity of support structures and enablers to help women achieve their goals. Tune in for more… 2017-08-31 WOMANITY AMB VENEZUELA DR A MALKA.jpg — JPG (373.0 KB)

This week we talk to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Mauritius, who doubles as the SADC National Contact Point, Ms Usha Dwarka-Canabady. We discuss a few highlights from the 37th SADC Summit, themed, “Partnering with the Private Sector in Developing Industry and Regional Value Chains”. The central focal point was on the eradication of poverty by greater collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society. Governments need to emphasise empowerment, particularly of women, to help alleviate poverty, but at the same time still preserve the dignity of impoverished individuals. We reflect on trade opportunities and barriers in the SADC region, and the benefits of working with partners to commercialise offerings. We note an increasing feminisation of government services across the world; however recognise that women do not invest sufficient time into developing their professional networks. We discuss the value of formal education to advance women, and its role as a tool to change outmoded mentalities that perpetuate negative stereotypes.

This week we talk to Dr Mahlatse Kgokolo - Head of Dermatology at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital/ University of Pretoria. We discuss some of the requisites in her position and specialisations in rare skin conditions, like Xeroderma Pigmentosum. We address the importance of setting strategic targets for long-term success and the need to provide support and appropriate guidance for aspiring young professionals. In terms of leadership we acknowledge the strength of team dynamics and leveraging individuals’ talents for the competitive advantage of the group. We discuss the merits of senior women mentoring less experienced women and for people to optimise their various platforms to benefit and impart wisdom to others. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr. Evelyn Moshokoa - Head of Urology at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital/ University of Pretoria. We discuss key aspects in her portfolio and a few of the factors that led her to study the male dominated field of urology. We emphasise the importance of nurturing and offering career guidance to young people to steer them in appropriate directions and assist them with the practical know how to realise their dreams. Additionally, we draw attention to the short-sightedness of the education system regarding its policies towards pregnant school goers, making the point that girls must attain an education, regardless of circumstances, to be able to make a success of their lives. We debate the impact of culture and tradition in modern society, acknowledging its positive and negative elements, and the difficulties modern professional females experience as they navigate between old and new worlds of community and self. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr. Ncumisa Jilata, who is Africa’s youngest neurosurgeon. We talk about her motivations for pursuing a career in neurosurgery, ranging from being fascinated by the central nervous system at high school, to the current shortage and hence market demand for this specialisation in South Africa. We note some of the challenges that young female doctors encounter, and the importance of building self-confidence to overcome both patient doubt and colleagues second-guessing prognoses. Dr. Jilata believes that it is possible to achieve gender equality in her lifetime, starting with changing mind sets, fostering women empowerment movements and encouraging the private, public and academic sectors to work together, as a triad to help bridge gender gaps. We emphasise the importance of strong female role models both in the professional space, at home and the community at large, to demonstrate there is nothing women cannot do. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Debra Meyer the executive Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Johannesburg about her responsibilities in this position, as well as the drive to increase the proportion of women in science, not just the student cohort but senior faculty members too. Prof. Meyer highlights some of the unique aspects of science, emphasising the contributions that scientists make to humanity through landmark discoveries e.g. HIV vaccines. We remark on the strength of South Africa’s pro-gender legislation and constitution, but raise concerns over the lack of universal implementation, and urge women to speak up when they have been affronted. Prof Meyer reflects on a few pivotal moments in her life, from being one of 10 siblings who all attained tertiary qualifications despite their disadvantaged background, her resourceful parents, to prominent women who influenced and nurtured her talent to excel. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to musician Moonchild Sanelly, who at heart is a niche performer. We discuss her fusion of musical influences to forge a unique sound; blending jazz, hip hop and kwaito, accompanied by a ‘Xhonglish’ narrative that addresses topics women experience on a daily basis – from eating disorders, to love and assault. Moonchild Sanelly shares some of her personal experiences, highlighting the need for greater empathy and support from people in authority to assist victims of abuse, particularly women. We consider the power women exert when they form united fronts and strive to achieve positive change. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Turkey to South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho - Elif Çomoğlu Ülgen. We discuss some of the responsibilities in her current role, at political, cultural and trade levels; as well as Turkey’s focus on Africa and its philosophy to support African solutions for African problems. We consider the positive effects of gender legislation to close gender gaps and drive equality. We remark on the role that women have played in society in pursuit of democracy and upholding political freedoms. We acknowledge that women are multi-faceted, capable of adopting several roles simultaneously i.e. mother, wife, business women etc…and are adept at multi-tasking. Tune in for more

This week we talk to Professor Penelope Andrews, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Cape Town. We reflect on some of her motivations to pursue a career in the legal profession to personally make a meaningful difference in society; notably the combined effects of political will to end apartheid and witnessing the daily impact apartheid had on people. Professor Andrews remarks that eradicating racism is easier than eradicating sexism against women; which may be blatant or benign, and perpetuated by women, as well as men, as they attempt to hold on to outdated stereotypical expectations of women. We note that female leadership makes a difference in the lives of girls and women, particularly when it comes to directing and influencing policy. We highlight the positive correlation between a country’s level of affluence and its gender equality status. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Margaret Hirsch, COO of Hirsch’s Homestore. We speak about the birth of Hirsh’s and a few of the catalysts behind various milestones in its journey. We discuss how Hirsch’s contributes to entrepreneurship in South Africa by helping individuals establish their own businesses and highlight some of the responsibilities associated with business ownership. Margaret shares some tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, such as cautioning against taking out loans, working while others are sleeping, the importance of exercising mind and body, working hard, building networks and social capital, and embracing lifelong learning. We emphasis the necessity of education and programmes like “Girls With Dignity” to supply sanitary pads to disadvantaged school girls so they don’t miss school when menstruating. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to reigning Miss SA 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel Peters about the pageant, how it has impacted on her life and some of the responsibilities that come with being Miss SA. We discuss some of the women’s empowerment work Demi is involved with, from Cell C’s Take A Girl Child to Work programme, which other country delegates, the likes of Miss Botswana and Miss Namibia, have adopted for their home countries, to Demi’s own forthcoming “unbreakable” initiative aimed to help women and girls stand up for themselves, protect themselves and be respected. We consider women in leadership, acknowledging that the right decision may not be the popular choice, and for female leaders to be courageous and speak up for people who may not have a voice to do so. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to multi-award winning Afropop musician Nhlanhla Nciza from Mafikizolo. We reflect on factors that have shaped her career in the music industry, from her parents, to education, to iconic musicians like Brenda Fassie. We also discuss how events in her life and broader community serve as the inspiration behind her song writing. We recognise the impact of positive female role models on both girls and boys, be it women who serve the public in prominent positions or mothers who instil strong values and morals in their children. However, we emphasise the need for more women to participate in leadership roles, particularly in rural areas, where some women are still undermined. We acknowledge that today women have access to more opportunities than before and encourage them to pursue their ambitions. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms. Phuti Mahanyele, Executive Chairperson of Sigma Capital, and former Chief Executive Officer of the Shanduka Group, one of South Africa’s leading investment holding companies. We discuss some of the milestones in her career and she shares a few of her life lessons, like hard work, thriving in competitive environments and leadership. We raise concerns about the perceived regression of women in executive roles, and postulate measures to raise the number of female executives, such as instating gender quotas and celebrating successful businesses with women in executive roles to acknowledge the positive performance of entities with women occupying leadership roles. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to award-winning, international best-selling, author Ms. Lauren Beukes. We discuss a few of the catalysts in her career, from winning the Arthur C Clarke award, to tackling social issues with a feminist slant as well as some of the driving forces behind her success – 10% talent, 10% luck, 80% hard work. We consider the role that the media plays with respect to gender and racial parity, framing both male and female perspectives of women. We remark on the idea of broken masculinity as traditional gender stereotypes become less and less relevant in the 21st century. We highlight the responsibility that women have to other women to help each other achieve their dreams. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to renowned South Africa author and performer Dr Gcina Mhlophe, who has been writing and performing on stage and screen for over 30 years. We discuss landmarks in her career, her efforts to preserve the art of storytelling as a means of keeping history alive and to wake up stories in other people, as well as her work to promote literacy and reading in rural areas. We remark on the detrimental effects that inadequate infrastructure has on women from public transportation to health care. We note the need to profile the successes of women to inform the general public. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the High Commissioner of Seychelles to South Africa Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre, who shares some of the responsibilities of her role, including participation in decision-making forums and raising awareness of minority groups’ rights. We discuss female leadership, extending beyond political and economic sectors to the home front, as well as the challenges some women experience between their public and private lives. We discuss the empowerment of women across four dimensions firstly education, secondly access to basic healthcare, thirdly fulfilling basic needs and fourthly by promoting the gender agenda amongst the male population. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Afropop entertainer Kelly Khumalo. We discuss the journey of her career so far and its future trajectory; fuelled by a passion to sing, remaining spiritually grounded and exercising the discipline to continue working and re-working for success. We consider the powerful influence musicians exert on society, and the responsibility they have to their fan base. On the personal side we consider some of the challenges that single working parents face, including continuously juggling multiple roles - a daily reality for many mothers in Africa. We remark that gender does not determine a person’s capability nor does it preclude people from fulfilling their dreams. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Rosemary Capa – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development and Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC). We discuss key priorities of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development in its efforts to address poverty and inequality, especially amongst society’s vulnerable groups – such as women, children and people with disabilities. We consider some of the interventions that have been put in place such as the establishment of the minimum wage, food security programmes in rural areas, early childhood development, and supplying girls with sanitary pads to restore their dignity and confidence. We acknowledge that role of education to empower women and the need to encourage and embrace female leadership Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by RnB, African Jazz singer Maleh. We discuss evolutions in her career, from the importance of identifying one’s sense of purpose in life to focussing energies and realising dreams. We consider the role musicians play in society in terms of “speaking” through the medium of music on behalf of those that do not have a voice or platform to express themselves. Maleh shares her journey of womanhood, highlighting her heritage of a line of women who have dedicated their lives to the development of their communities, and her efforts to inspire young woman to pursue their personal ambitions. We remark on education as a necessity to understand business and attain success irrespective of career choice. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Afro Soul singer Amanda Black. We discuss the power of music and lyrics to sway people’s perceptions, and consequently the tremendous influence musicians exert on the public. Amanda relays the important role of education in her career, to perfect and master her craft, emphasising the necessity of study to better understand your field in pursuit of excellence. We note the need for women at the top of their industries to mentor and nurture younger women starting out to help them overcome challenges; and we highlight some of the characteristics associated with positive female leaders. We also discuss issues of identity, confidence, self-respect and self-belief for women to constructively take control of their futures. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Nomalungelo Gina – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, and Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC). We discuss key priorities of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education in relation to improving the quality of education, specifically in mathematics and science subjects; and the need for the state to provide inclusive education that caters for learners with special needs to ensure equal opportunities for all. We highlight the importance of educating the girl child, as well as offering basic education to women who may not previously have had an opportunity for schooling, to be aware of their rights, to better manage fertility rates, to improve health care and alleviate poverty. We also remark on the detrimental effects of teenage pregnancy and comment on some social interventions to prevent the exploitation of young women. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Phumuzile Ngwenya-Mabila – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Rural Development and Land Reform, and Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC). We discuss key priorities of the Portfolio Committee on Rural Development and Land Reform in relation to: land reform and development, improving service delivery in rural areas, land redistribution and female beneficiaries. We consider gender transformation in the workforce and tools to acceleration this process, such as legislation and education. We acknowledge that careers options for women have diversified, emphasise that people must actively seek out opportunities, and note the need for women to support other women to help them prosper. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Joanmariae Louise Fubbs – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry and Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC). We discuss some of the goals of the Department of Trade and Industry, such as the acceleration of employment through industrialisation, small business development and entrepreneurship; prioritising intra-Africa trading; enabling broad based black economic empowerment. Collectively Africans need to upgrade and develop Africa for its sustainable future. We acknowledge the role of education to develop women, and highlight that female leaders are as capable as their male counterparts. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Cecilia Julin, the Ambassador of Sweden to South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho and Namibia. We discuss some of the responsibilities in her current role, at a political and economic level, and highlight a few regional programmes Sweden supports in Southern Africa, such as AIDS prevention, energy initiatives and climate issues. We consider the positive effects of gender legislation to achieve equality and alter gender stereotypes, for example, the right to 480 days of parental leave in Sweden, which is shared between a child’s parents, promotes the view that child rearing is as much a father’s duty as it is a mother’s. We reflect on the importance of education to advance women, remarking on the need to focus on developing skills in science and technology, which increasingly shape global society. Tune in for more…

“This week we are joined by Ms Nozabelo Ruth Bhengu, Chairperson of the parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development, and member of Parliament of the South African ruling party, the African National Congress. We discuss some of the committee’s responsibilities in the development of small business, as well as, its role in the country’s National Development Plan towards the radical social economic transformation by the year 2030, as women represent the greatest number of entrepreneurs in the “Survivalist” and “Micro” categories. Tune in for more”.

This week we talk to Ms Jane Raphaely Chairperson of Associated Media Publishing, which publishes both internationally acclaimed and South African brands, ranging from Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, WOW, House and Leisure, Good Housekeeping/Goeie Huishouding, H&L Renovations, H&L Food, SA Lingerie to Cosmo on Campus. We discuss some the childhood experiences that Ms Raphaely’s encountered during the Second World War and her determination to escape poverty and be in control of her own destiny. We highlight the transformative effects of education, particularly tertiary education as a springboard to propel individuals beyond what they thought possible. We reflect on female leadership and persistent inequalities, remarking that women leaders need to systematically attract followers to bring about lasting change. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Safiatou Ndiaye, the Ambassador of Senegal to South Africa. We reflect on her 30 year career in politics and some of the responsibilities in her current role, such as fostering greater economic trade between Senegal and South Africa (particularly in the commodities space) and promoting cultural relations between these two nations. We discuss some of the challenges that handicap gender parity objectives, like traditional cultural aspects and religious considerations. In spite of these pressures Senegal has managed to achieve one of its gender goals - for girls to attend high school. The next step is for these high school graduates to pursue tertiary education and go on to develop professional careers as economically empowered women. We acknowledge the sacrifices that female leaders have made and their responsibilities as role models and mentors for successive generations . Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Dr Adriana Marais, theoretical physicist and aspiring extraterrestrial - as one of the 100 Mars One Project astronaut candidates in the running to move to Mars in 2026. We discuss some of her work in quantum mechanics and the depths of discovery made possible by this field, for example applying the perfect efficiency of the inner workings of photosynthesis to human energy technologies. We acknowledge the importance of science to the future of the world, the prominence of STEM based positions in 2020 and the acceleration of scientific progress in Africa. We highlight some of the opportunities available to women for further study via specific bursaries and grants available exclusively to women. We discuss some of the logistics required to send humans to live on Mars more than 200 million kilometres away from earth and how she envisages living life on another planet. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Machwene Rosina Semenya – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC). We discuss some of the responsibilities of the committee, such as collaborating with other portfolios, passing legislation and providing a space to engage with civil society on matters of interest. Ms Semenya acknowledges components that still hinder women’s progress in society, like patriarchy, and importantly how to overcome these barriers through legislation and education across the gender divide to enable women to perform meaningful roles in society on an equal standing to their male counterparts. We also reflect on the value of female role models to inspire women to rise above their challenges. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Julia Raphaely CEO of Associated Media Publishing, which publishes both internationally acclaimed and South African brands, ranging from Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, WOW, House and Leisure, Good Housekeeping/Goeie Huishouding, H&L Renovations, H&L Food, SA Lingerie to Cosmo on Campus. We discuss the challenges of transforming an established business to thrive in a radically changed world, striking a balance between keeping the foundation business healthy and simultaneously investing in the future. We reflect on the positive implications for female employees working in a business that was started by and is run by women – glass ceilings do not exist, nor does gender inequality or pay disparity. We consider important traits for women in leadership roles such as confidence, strength of conviction and clarity of focus to make decisions that benefit the business. We emphasise the value of education and mentorship to nurture young women in their careers and urge them to remain hungry to learn, to keep an open mind and try new opportunities. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Nonzwakazi Cekete, the editor of Move!, South Africa’s biggest women’s weekly magazine, with a readership of almost 2.4million people. We discuss her rise up the career ladder in media, diligently working her way from the bottom to the top and building a strong personal brand in the process. Nonzwi takes her role as editor responsibly, she is acutely aware of the influence Move’s content exerts on its audiences - dispensing much needed expert advice across various platforms to the Move! community. We acknowledge the power of education to open opportunities for women to advance. We note that inequality still persists in the workplace, especially where remuneration is concerned. To breach gender gaps women have to fight harder, be more vocal, market themselves and equate their worth to currency when they negotiate their contracts . Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Pnina Fenster, the editor of Glamour magazine. We discuss some of the operational challenges experienced by contemporary editors of women’s magazines in the 21st century, and the depth of responsibility Ms Fenster has to her readers in pursuit of making women’s lives better. In our discussion on attaining gender equality we reflect on the ability of humankind to change; by changing individuals communities change. We remark that women have made significant strides, and today exercise more power than ever before, despite the women’s liberation movement being relatively young. Political equality is one milestone, but economic equality is sorely needed to empower women sustainably. We remark that women and men tend to be judged differently because of their gender, instead of their competence, and legislation is needed to prevent prejudices. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Jackie May, the editor of Marie Claire magazine, which celebrates 20 years of publishing in South Africa this year. We discuss some of the responsibilities that come with an editor’s portfolio, including being primary caretaker of the brand and custodian of the content disseminated across its multiple platforms. We consider some of the positive dynamics for women working in predominately female environments and companies that are run by women. We highlight some of the factors that still hinder women’s progress in the work space that need to be overcome, such as equal pay, fostering greater confidence and utilising legislation to protect their rights and interests if they feel affronted. We stress the importance of academic education and social awareness to equip people to contribute meaningfully to their lives and society as a whole. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Suzy Brokensha, editor of Fairlady and Lose It magazines. We discuss the sustainability of magazines and their future as they compete against multiple media sources for consumer attention, and the pursuit of niche communities of interest, remarking on pop up publishing as a mechanism to quickly fill open gaps in the market. We consider the democratisation of media, and highlight cautionary consequences of confirmation bias that may lead to a more disperse and disintegrated society by reinforcing individuals’ myopic beliefs. We acknowledge that women in the workforce tend to be judged differently to their male counterparts and are prone to more ad hominem attacks than men. We remark on the need for women to negotiate their salaries and understand their value before embarking on a job. In the quest for gender equality we raise the importance of male-to-male influence to topple gender inequality. Tune in for more…

This week we reflect on episodes of the past year with a compilation of some the show’s most memorable segments. The High Commissioner of Canada, Ms Sandra McCardell, remarks on women’s inherent leadership capability and the need for women to support other women – reminding us of Madeleine Albright’s quote, “There's a special place in hell for women who don't help each other.” Staying with the theme of female leadership, the Ambassador of Norway, Ms Trine Skymoen, relays details of the current financial loss Sub-Saharan Africa incurs as a result of women being excluded from economic participation; she also shares some of the successful policy interventions undertaken by Norway to drive gender equality in the corporate sector. Ms Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, currently the Special Gender Envoy at the African Development Bank and former Minster of the Republic of South Africa, highlights the impact of infrastructure deficits in Africa on women and the opportunities for women to take up vital roles to build and sustain the continent. Former Minister of Human Settlements and current Member of Parliament Ms Cornelia September stresses the importance of education as a primary tool to shape and grow the Africa of today and the future. Helen Zille, the Premier of the Western Cape, former Mayor of Cape Town and former leader of the Democratic Alliance, illustrates that true female empowerment and the freedom for women to make autonomous decisions is only possible with education. Ms Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya, South Africa’s Ambassador to Egypt and previously South Africa’s first Minister of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, calls upon women to unite and lift others as they rise. Professor Vicky Crittenden reminds us that everyone has the potential to make a valuable contribution to society. Closing the show is renowned South African business woman Dr. Judy Dlamini, who imparts invaluable life tips based on some of the factors that she attributes to her success. Tune in for more…

This week we reflect on episodes of the past year with a compilation of some the show’s most memorable segments. Renowned business woman Dr. Judy Dlamini relays aspects of the pioneering research she produced in her doctoral thesis on successful women in business, highlighting five key levers that lead to sustainable empowerment. Terry Volkwyn, CEO of Primedia Broadcasting, talks about the challenges she encountered when she elected to go against socially determined gender stereotype roles and shares some of the mottos in her life. Mrs Wendy Ackerman, co-Founder and honorary life president of Pick n Pay stores, highlights what it takes for women to smash through glass cubes, let alone glass ceilings, in pursuit of their careers, in part by refuting nonsensical policies and in the process securing more rights and benefits for female employees. Olympic long distance runner Elana Meyer emphasises the importance of positively nurturing self-belief to achieve success. Captain of the South African national ladies cricket team Mignon du Preez talks about some of the drivers to her success. Jacqui Hlongwane, programme manager and curator at SABC 2, reminds us of the power women possess to change outcomes of not only their lives but those in their community and our continent. Closing the show is the High Commissioner of Jamaica Ms Cheryl Kay Spencer with a message of resilience to rise above struggles – nothing is impossible. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Cheryl Kay Spencer, the High Commissioner of Jamaica to 19 countries in Southern and East Africa. We discuss her career in foreign affairs and some of the responsibilities in her current role, such as debunking myths and misconceptions of Jamaica, expanding trade relations, elevating sports activities and promoting cultural relations between South Africa and Jamaica. We address gender equality interventions such as quality education for girls and adolescent females, teaching women to be economically productive and independent, promoting women’s rights, enacting gender legislation, and the need for male champions to support and push the agenda for gender equality. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Helen Zille, the Premier of the Western Cape (former leader of the Democratic Alliance, South Africa's opposition political party, and former Mayor of Cape Town). We discuss the Premier’s views on women empowerment and gender equality legislation, highlighting education as a key enabler for women to achieve liberation, economic freedom and make autonomous decisions - including the choice to have children or not, and who to partner with in their lives. We recognise the negatives of pervasive gender stereotypical roles and the impact motherhood has on women advancing their careers if they do not have adequate support structures. We address globalisation, diversity and acceptance of otherness as key strengths to navigate our global village. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ms Jacqui Hlongwane, the Programme Manager for SABC2, who provisions content for the station’s 50 million viewers. We discuss the influencing effects media has on society, highlighting the responsibility media practitioners have to curate appropriate material for their audiences across multiple genres. We address some of the gender challenges women experience in the workforce and how to overcome them. We reflect on the need for individuals to take ownership of their potential for the benefit of their communities and society at large to positively rebuild Africa. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Victoria Crittenden, Professor of Marketing and Chair of the Marketing Division at Babson College USA. We address female entrepreneurship through direct selling, highlighting some of the benefits it yields, such as financial independence, empowerment choices and self confidence. Success in the direct selling space is dependent on entrepreneurs engaging with their customers. Social media is increasingly replacing the traditional door-to-door physical contact approach. Therefore, for women to increase their odds of success they need to master their social media skills to build client networks and accrue social capital. We discuss education as a tool to overcome poverty, the value of role models and women in leadership. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Carol Ann Benn, a renowned South African surgeon who specialises in breast health. We discuss several movements underway in healthcare, namely reducing the focus on a vertical approach to educate patients directly about their bodies and health concerns, applying a multidisciplinary approach to provide holistic healthcare to patients, tailoring treatment to the individual and making healthcare professionals and facilities more accessible to people. We highlight the importance of further education and self-learning to empower people, as well as the need for mentorship to develop and support people in their careers. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Professor Dianne Manning, Deputy Dean for Education in the Faculty of Health Science at the University of Pretoria. We discuss some of the demographic changes that have transformed the composition of health science graduates with a notable bias in favour of women as an outcome of empowerment and not being excluded from opportunities to study disciplines of their choice. We emphasise the contribution of education to build competence and the function of role models to improve women’s economic possibilities. We remark on the need for continuous improvement by building upon the knowledge of giants who have preceded us. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to South African Paralympic and World Championship gold medallist Ntombizanele (Zanele) Situ. We discuss some of Zanele’s many achievements through her three decade long career, how her journey into competitive sport evolved out of her love for sport, how sport helped her understand herself more and equipped her to manage her disability. We consider some of the motivations behind Zanele’s success, such as constantly stretching herself to attempt new challenges, to appreciate support structures and her motto of “If you can dream it you can do it”. We also reflect on the need for parents to invest into their children’s upbringing for the betterment of them and society. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to South African Paralympic and World Championship gold medallist Ilse Hayes. We discuss some of her career highlights and underlying drivers for success. A few of her motivating factors include: self belief to be better than yesterday; setting tangible goals; being present - focussing on the here and now; strong support systems - in family, coaches and peers; as well as striving for personal intrinsic values rather than extrinsic rewards. She elaborates on some of her role models, expressing how they have influenced and shaped her life. We consider the parallels between lessons learnt on the track and their applicability in corporate environments, such as time management or adapting behaviours in the face of uncontrollable elements to manage optimal outcomes. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to 2016 Olympic Gold 800m champion and multi-medallist Caster Semenya. She gives insight into some of the factors that have contributed to her achievements, touching on “Team Cobra”, her strong support networks, the importance of creating a positive environment to breed success with like-minded people, and education. We consider some of the elements required to help strengthen women’s sport including establishing a sports network for women spanning the sporting spectrum, optimising sports management and sourcing appropriate sponsorships. We also discuss her career plans as an international athlete and life after competing on the track to focus on sports development to nurture upcoming athletes. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Judy Dlamini, founder and executive Chairperson of the Mbekani Group and former Chairperson of Aspen Pharmacare Limited. Her previous board engagements include Anglo American Discovery Holdings, Woolworths Holdings and others. We consider her successful transition from the medical profession to corporate finance, epitomising the philosophy of lifelong learning. We contemplate female leadership in business, the pervading inequalities as well as interventions like quotas, legislation, and the need for men to embrace and encourage gender transformation to achieve equality. We also discuss her doctorate thesis concerning the intersection of race, gender and social class in women CEOs career advancement and gender transformation in leadership. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Judy Dlamini, founder and executive Chairperson of the Mbekani Group and former Chairperson of Aspen Pharmacare Limited. Her previous board engagements include Anglo American Discovery Holdings, Woolworths Holdings and others. We consider her successful transition from the medical profession to corporate finance, epitomising the philosophy of lifelong learning. We contemplate female leadership in business, the pervading inequalities as well as interventions like quotas, legislation, and the need for men to embrace and encourage gender transformation to achieve equality. We also discuss her doctorate thesis concerning the intersection of race, gender and social class in women CEOs career advancement and gender transformation in leadership. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Clara Nzima the Head SABC 1, South Africa’s largest national public broadcasting television channel. We discuss key highlights in her career and some of her award winning productions, her proactive stance to consciously develop women in the workforce, and her sense of responsibility towards succession planning to build institutional memory. We address some of the gender challenges women encounter in corporate environments and the positive evolution of policies to improve their rights. In the media space we emphasise the importance of portraying women in a positive light in story lines and news features, due to the influence media has on understanding, shaping and sustaining cultural and social perceptions. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Terry Volkwyn the Chief Executive Officer of Primedia Broadcasting who is charged with running four commercial stations and integrating several initiatives that scale across the brand platforms. We discuss some of the challenges female leaders encounter in corporate environments; the need to encourage women to seek out opportunities in business and hold their ground; how to enhance inherent feminine traits like intuition through substantiation; and the dynamics of work life balance. We touch on the negative impact of pervading social stereotypes which influence people’s perspectives of gender roles and counter the advances of equality. We address the importance of active citizenship and taking responsibility, as individuals, for driving positive change in society. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the High Commissioner of Canada to South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, Lesotho and Namibia - Sandra McCardell. We consider some of the dynamics affecting women in leadership positions. In the professional space female leaders are often judged differently to male counterparts. In the family environment the female expression of authority tends to be inherent; children are taught to listen first and foremost to their mothers who bring a sense of caring and collegiality. We acknowledge the complexity of family influences on women’s lives and the importance of implementing legislation to support women’s rights - women aren’t equal until all women are equal. Women need to believe in their values as human beings and carry that strength forward, enabling themselves through education and attaining financial independence. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr Brigalia Bam, former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa, former Chancellor of the Walter Sisulu University and Nelson Mandela University. Dr Bam relays some of the challenges in the journey of building South Africa’s democracy - unpacking the efforts to register South Africans on the voters role, reaching people in rural and urban areas, co-ordinating the infrastructure required to facilitate voting, motivating political parties to work together, and captivating the spirit of the people in South Africa to embrace the freedom to vote. We reflect on the effects of having more women in decision making roles in parliament. Women in these institutions have the power to change the conditions of other women. Conditions of poverty, gender based violence, poor health, inadequate education, disempowerment and economic injustices are detrimental to the well-being and progress of women. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Prof Cina van Zyl, former Chair of the Department of Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain, Transport, Tourism and Logistics Management at the University of South Africa. We discuss some of the barriers and enablers to women’s scholarly development and research in Higher Education. We emphasise that women need to learn how to work the respective organisational systems they find themselves in, create and negotiate their own workable career strategies, be creative in their time management and prove their worth through their outputs – aiming to be indispensible. A one size fits all approach is a one size fits none. Good networks are vital for success and women need to start building them at the beginning of their careers, meeting senior executives and fostering these relationships in the long-term and drawing upon this social capital when the time arises. “Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you respond to it.” Tune in for more…

This week we talk about the national Safe Ride campaign, an initiative launched between Sonke Gender Justice and the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO), with the support of the Danish Embassy in South Africa. Our guests, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to South Africa Ms Trine Rask Thygesen, Ms Nonhlanhla Skosana, Community Education and Mobilisation Manager at Sonke Gender Justice and Ms Memory Madikgoe from the Women’s Desk of the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) unpack the details of this campaign, which is aimed at preventing and responding to the abuse of women and girls at the hands of taxi personnel. We discuss the psychological and physical impact of gender based violence on the individual in her private and public life. Women’s rights are human rights and the integrity of these rights must be upheld by all members of society. There is a need to change pervasive cultural thinking and attitudes to women by engaging with men. In the Safe Ride initiative men are regarded as critical partners, to help create safe travel for girls and women. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to two pioneering University of Johannesburg researchers, who were recently honoured at the 2016 Women in Science Awards - Professor Catherine Ngila and Professor Esther Akinlabi. We discuss changes in the demographic composition of the technology and science arena, with increasing representation of women in both the professional and academic space. They share their motivation for pursuing careers in science, which stemmed from excelling academically as a means to escape poverty and cultural constraints that were imposed on girls and women in rural areas. However, women still lag behind in senior management, we address the need for women to believe in themselves more, to compete, to own their success and nominate themselves for top positions. A combination of positive exposure, encouragement and support will help girls and women advance in their chosen paths. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the University of South Africa (UNISA) Women’s Forum Chairperson Dr. Marinkie Madiope. We discuss the merits and flexibility of distance learning institutions as well as the use of e-learning tools to educate and empower individuals, extending from urban to rural environments. Both formal and informal forms of education are key enablers to empower women; contributing to self-development - building confidence and assertiveness; or economic independence via entrepreneurial skills and the ability to access resources. We address the role of the UNISA Women’s forum to promote women issues and afford women opportunities to learn from role models, and the future of this forum to broaden its mandate to service female stakeholders in the wider UNISA community. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to South Africa’s International Women’s Springbok Rugby Sevens award winning player Chané Stadler. Women’s Sevens Rugby is a growing sport, and the South African team is on the ascent to success, recently proving their world class performance by winning both the Hong Kong and Rome tournaments on the international circuit. We discuss some of the strategies used to strengthen team cohesion both on and off the field. At the individual level we consider the importance of a positive attitude and confidence for a person to achieve their ambitions and overcome negative setbacks, emphasising that women must believe in themselves more. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Switzerland – Ms Helene Budliger Artieda, who is the Ambassador to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesetho, Swaziland and Mauritius. We discuss Switzerland’s emphasis on economic development and trade arrangements with the SADC region as well as Switzerland’s strategy to partner with countries for progress. Specific efforts include a focus on vocational educational training and small medium enterprise development to contribute to sustainable economic growth in Africa. We compare the state of gender equality in Switzerland to countries in Africa, noting the differences and the demands placed on women forcing them to multitask and make choices which often compromise their career development as they prioritise their family responsibilities. We note that the important role that men play in gender equality by supporting and advocating women in the workplace. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Mrs. Mashego-Dlamini the Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform in the Republic of South Africa. We discuss aspects of her career, her work as an anti-apartheid activist and involvement in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We address some of the economic initiatives the department has established for women, specifically in arts, crafts and clothing to uplift women and promote trade. We consider the dynamics of gender equality and the importance of developing education programs for both girls and boys. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Mignon Dupreez, the captain of South Africa’s ladies national cricket team. She shares some of the responsibilities associated with captaining the national cricket team, from an internal perspective preparing the squad to externally promoting - not just the game of cricket but women in sport. She emphasises the importance of embracing the opportunity to be a role model to positively influence young girls and encourage them to reach for their dreams, and demonstrating by example that it is possible to break through barriers and build a legacy. In terms of women’s leadership we consider the innate qualities women possess and should apply in their leadership roles rather than adopting male leadership styles. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Bongiwe Msomi, Vice-captain of South Africa’s ladies national netball team. She shares some of her experiences as an international sportswoman representing South Africa. We discuss personal attributes of dedication, passion and perseverance on an internal level and on external level some of the robust support structures that contribute to building successful sporting careers. Bongiwe reflects on serving as a role model to inspire other young women and encourage them to pursue their goals. We remark on the need for women in sport to receive greater recognition for their contributions to help elevate the status of women’s sports and raise its appeal amongst a broader public. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Ms Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi - African Development Bank Special Envoy on Gender (former Minister of Public Service and Administration & former Minister of Welfare and Population Development in the Republic of South Africa). The focus of the conversation is on infrastructure in Africa. We discuss some of the continent’s infrastructure challenges, current projects underway to develop roads, water systems and solar energy, the need for private and public sectors to unite forces to accelerate progress. We consider the role of women as downstream beneficiaries and upstream providers in new infrastructure programmes. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of Norway, Trine Skymoen, who is the Ambassador to South Africa, Botswana, and Madagascar. We discuss Norway’s development programmes in Africa that focus on empowering women, emphasising the political, moral and economic benefits behind this initiative. In terms of gender equality we stress that both men and women must take responsibility to achieve gender equality. Some of the factors that contribute to gender equality include: shared parental responsibility; ensuring girls and boys receive the same level; instituting quota systems (in 2006 Norway introduced legislation stating that companies listed on the Norwegian stock exchange required a minimum of 40% women); role models (to date Norway has had two female prime ministers). Tune in for more…

This week in part 2 of Womanity’s commemoration of youth month through education we feature conversations from guests who have demonstrated the impact that education has had on their lives and the role of education in South Africa. Ms Bathabile Olive Dlamini - Current ANCWL President and South Africa’s Minister of Social Development; Ms Mary-Ann Lindelwa Dunjwa - Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Health; Prof Cheryl de la Rey - Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria; Ms Yvonne ‘Pinky’ Nkwenkwezi Phosa – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Higher Education & Training; Ms Mmamoloko Tryphosa Kubayi – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services; Ambassador Sheila Sisulu - Chancellor of Walter Sisulu University; Ambassador Elisabeth Barbier – Ambassador of France to South Africa; Ms Thoko Didiza - former Minister of the Republic of South Africa, currently House Chairperson in the Parliament of South Africa; Ms Zolani Mahola lead singer of Freshlyground; Ms Mildred Oliphant - Minister of Labour. Tune in for inspiration.

In South Africa, the month of June is celebrated as Youth Month, to remember the youth who lost their lives during the Soweto uprising on 16th June 1976. This year, today 16th June 2016, marks the 40th anniversary of this occasion, which is commemorated under the theme “Youth Moving South Africa Forward”. Our youth require many components to move our nation forward, but arguably one element stands out above the rest and that is education. In recognition of the positive effects of education, Womanity has compiled a special programme that features extracts from previous guests who have demonstrated the impact that education has had on their lives and how South Africa has advanced as a result of it. Ms Buyelwa Sonjica - former Minister of the Republic of South Africa; Ms Angie Motshekga - Minister of Education; Mrs Zoleka Lebelo - Principle of Alexander High School; Ms Thoko Didiza - former Minister of the Republic of South Africa, currently House Chairperson in the Parliament of South Africa; Prof Irma Elof, Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of Pretoria; Dr Sibongile Khumalo award winning musician; award winning Afro-soul vocalist and songwriter Lira; Moshidi Motshegwa - actress, producer and director; CEO and founder of BBES International Bisila Bokoko. Tune in for inspiration…

This week we talk to Lilan Du Plessis and Marizen Marais from South Africa’s ladies national hockey team. They share some of their experiences as sportswomen representing South Africa internationally. Support networks are emphasised as enablers, ranging from family, friends and fans to institutional structures like universities that flexibly accommodate the demands of a sporting career with a student’s academic obligations. They remark on some of the non-tangible dynamics of team sports which contribute to building successful teams, and the need for greater profiling of sportswomen to mainstream women’s sport in its own right. They share insights into what inspires them and correspondingly dispense their own words of advice. Tune in for more

This week we talk to Lilan Du Plessis and Marizen Marais from South Africa’s ladies national hockey team. They share some of their experiences as sportswomen representing South Africa internationally. Support networks are emphasised as enablers, ranging from family, friends and fans to institutional structures like universities that flexibly accommodate the demands of a sporting career with a student’s academic obligations. They remark on some of the non-tangible dynamics of team sports which contribute to building successful teams, and the need for greater profiling of sportswomen to mainstream women’s sport in its own right. They share insights into what inspires them and correspondingly dispense their own words of advice. Tune in for more

This week we talk to Refiloe Jane and Sanah Mollo from South Africa’s ladies national soccer team - Banyana Banyana. They share some of the responsibilities they carry as role models to aspiring young ladies both on and off the soccer field; noting that women should support each other more, empower themselves and be the change they want to see. They elaborate on the work that goes into becoming world-class sportswomen, representing South Africa, on their journey to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. They share insights into what inspires them and correspondingly dispense their own words of advice. Tune in for more..

This week we talk to Elana Meyer, former South African long-distance runner and Olympic medallist. We discuss some of the factors that contributed to her success in athletics, effectively tools of life. These range from discipline, dedication, persistence, external enablers and a driving passion for people to pursue their chosen paths. We consider elements that contribute to gender equality; such as socialising girls to believe in themselves and the possibility to do anything, as well as the need for women who have walked the road to success to share their journey with younger women, serving as role models to assist youngsters in road forward. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Wendy Ackerman Co-founder and Life President of Pick n Pay Stores. We discuss her commitment to employees’ benefits and welfare, for instance women are entitled to 9 months maternity leave, at 75% of their salary, and guaranteed their position when they return to work. We remark on the choices working women are required to make through evaluating their personal circumstances and electing to either develop a career or pursue a standard 9-5 job. We consider the need for women to improve work/life integration, to cultivate support structures, and the role of flexi-time options. We reflect on gender equality both in the working world and on the home front. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to South Africa, Ms Trine Rask Thygesen. We discuss the progress of gender equality, remarking on the positive gains female leadership has made in the public sector, notably governments in some Nordic and African countries, in contrast to significantly lower levels in the private sector across the globe. In consideration of gender gaps, issues of unconscious bias, diversity, assertion, professional networking are addressed. We highlight the forthcoming Women Deliver conference which takes place in Copenhagen Denmark from 16-19 May. It will host the world's largest conference on the health, rights, and wellbeing of girls and women in the last ten years with delegates from 150 countries. The main aim of the conference will be on how to implement the Sustainable Development Goals with respect to women, emphasising maternal, sexual, and reproductive health rights. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to South Africa, Ms Trine Rask Thygesen. We discuss the progress of gender equality, remarking on the positive gains female leadership has made in the public sector, notably governments in some Nordic and African countries, in contrast to significantly lower levels in the private sector across the globe. In consideration of gender gaps, issues of unconscious bias, diversity, assertion, professional networking are addressed. We highlight the forthcoming Women Deliver conference which takes place in Copenhagen Denmark from 16-19 May. It will host the world's largest conference on the health, rights, and wellbeing of girls and women in the last ten years with delegates from 150 countries. The main aim of the conference will be on how to implement the Sustainable Development Goals with respect to women, emphasising maternal, sexual, and reproductive health rights. Tune in for more….

This week we speak to Dipuo Peters, the Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa. We unpack some of the challenges in the transport industry affecting gender transformation and how to attract more women into this sector, particularly in leadership positions in both private and public entities. We consider the role of advocacy platforms in the transport sector like Women in Rail and South African Network for Women in Transport, women’s access to finance, flexi-time options, mentoring, the importance of adequate support structures to allow women to succeed in their choice of career, and establishing quotas to encourage more women to participate in different modes of transport (aviation, land or sea). Additionally we discuss gender equality - propelled by legislation, and women’s self-empowerment through education and up-skilling for advancement. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to Dipuo Peters, the Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa. We unpack some of the challenges in the transport industry affecting gender transformation and how to attract more women into this sector, particularly in leadership positions in both private and public entities. We consider the role of advocacy platforms in the transport sector like Women in Rail and South African Network for Women in Transport, women’s access to finance, flexi-time options, mentoring, the importance of adequate support structures to allow women to succeed in their choice of career, and establishing quotas to encourage more women to participate in different modes of transport (aviation, land or sea). Additionally we discuss gender equality - propelled by legislation, and women’s self-empowerment through education and up-skilling for advancement. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Judge Monica Leeuw, the first female appointed Judge President in South Africa, who currently occupies the role of Judge President of North-West High Court in South Africa. Judge Leeuw highlights some of her responsibilities as Judge President, she expresses her wish that people across the breadth of the country have access to justice and that cases in the court system are finalized expeditiously. Additionally Judge Leeuw reflects on her starting point in the legal field, recalling her time in university as a young law student, when there were just two women in her class studying law and the difficulty thereafter for women to secure positions for articles. Subsequently through the development of South Africa’s legal system and the formation of the new constitution women are no longer hampered by prejudicial constraints. Legislation promotes equal rights and the empowerment of women. But in order for women to advance further they need to empower and support one another. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Justice Sisi Khampepe, a Constitutional Court Judge of South Africa, a position she has held since 2009. She is one of eleven judges charged with the duties of upholding the law and the constitution in South Africa. Justice Khampepe reflects on her early career as a young candidate attorney confronting the injustices of apartheid on a daily basis; and her efforts to defend the rights of workers against unjust laws and unfair employment practices, such as reducing the cumbersome requirements imposed on hawkers seeking licenses to trade, and challenging the 24 hour dismissal notices that were imposed on temporary workers without fair hearings. She also shares some of her experiences as a Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Commissioner and the atrocities that were committed, “where the pigment of your skin mattered more than the humanity of your heart”. In respect of gender equality, Judge Khampepe reiterates that the South African constitution is deliberately gender conscious and it rests upon all citizens to ensure that anyone can advance to the upper echelons of society, so women at all levels of leadership should be vocal and fight to ensure that parity is achieved. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Judge Mahube Betty Molemela, the first female Judge President of the Free State High Court of South Africa. Judge Molemela describes her role as Judge President and the independence of the South African judiciary to deliver quality justice. Gender ratios in the legal system, like most sectors in society, are not at parity levels. To a large extent this stems from a history of patriarchy as well as apartheid which precluded women. Today women have many more career opportunities, partly attributed to legislation and the efforts of their female predecessors who have paved the way for equal opportunity. Despite this, women the world over are still underrepresented in key positions and the number of females occupying leadership roles is not where it should be, however progress is being made and gender transformation must continue to advance. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Fazila Dahall, who has been an Executive Producer at Channel Africa (SABC), for both English and French programmes for over thirty years. Reflecting on her career as a journalist we discuss some of her encounters and escapes in war stricken territories, from Pakistan to Afghanistan, in circumstances and territories where the life of a woman holds very little value. We discuss some of her award winning work in Algeria, as well as her social responsibility commitments with the Akbaraly Foundation of Madagascar, which is dedicated to fighting female cancers, bringing life-saving health services to impoverished women in rural communities. We reflect on female leadership in Africa, noting that women represent more than 50% of the continent’s population yet their progress at the socio-political table is much slower than it should be after fifty years of political independence. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya: Former Minister of Women, Youth, Children and People with Disabilities; former President of NEHAWU, and currently South Africa’s Ambassador to Egypt. We discuss some of the challenges she experienced in her role as first female president of NEHAWU, overcoming gender stereotypes to prove that women possess the attributes to be competent capable leaders. Yet this capability still tends to be overlooked in the corporate sector. We reflect on the birth of the Progressive Women’s Movement as an important milestone in South Africa’s history to unite women along common issues, and stress that women must continue to embody one voice and speak out about issues that affect them; politically, socially, legally and economically, to make meaningful contributions for the betterment of society. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Sofia Simba, Tanzania’s Minister of Community Development, Gender and Children. We discuss the fact that governments across the African continent generally have good polices with respect to women, but challenges of underfunding negatively impact on resource availability and the implementation of policies. We acknowledge that the African Union has made agri-businesses a focal point amongst women and is putting in place mechanisms for mechanised development for farming practices. However, for women to succeed commercially, greater access to financial resources is necessary. Part of this endeavour requires women to be more educated with literacy and numeracy skills and aware of their rights in society. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Elsie Coleman – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development. We discuss some of the portfolio committee’s roles relating to unblocking impediments to job creation in South Africa, such as the provision of adequate social infrastructure like water and sanitation services that have a significant impact on households, particularly for women. We debate women’s empowerment in the workplace stressing that whilst legislation may encourage women to participate in the workforce they still need the requisite skills to perform the functions expected of them, and skills support is not always readily available. However, by self-educating, being assertive and focussing on set targets leads to fulfilment. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Thandi Cecilia Memela – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Women in The Presidency. We discuss some of the portfolio committee’s responsibilities to ensure that women are economically active, whether they own a small business or are employed by large enterprises, and amplifying this message across the African continent. On the one hand we reflect on archaic practices such as primogeniture and other traditional laws that prevented women from inheriting and owning property, and on the other hand remark on positive legislation which strives for equal rights. In pursuit of equality there is a need to change mindsets of both men and women and socialise future generations to respect and value one another irrespective of gender. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Yvonne ‘Pinky’ Nkwenkwezi Phosa – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Higher Education & Training. We emphasise that education is at the centre of development for South African society and the country’s economic productivity. Concerted efforts are underway to reduce poverty and create jobs via collaborations between industry and government. One example is an artisan program that is tied to infrastructure development projects and promotes entrepreneurship. We discuss the advantages of e-learning, particularly amongst women in order to flexibly incorporate education and learning into busy schedules and open new doors of possibilities. In the working world, we underscore the importance of focus, hard work, perseverance and the impact of legacy projects as testaments of success. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Xoliswa Tom – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Arts & Culture. We discuss some of the Department of Arts and Culture’s roles in preserving heritage, promoting the performing arts, documenting societal practices in film and facilitating the role out of libraries to empower disadvantaged communities. We consider enabling factors that help women achieve success in their careers ranging from legislation to cultivating a supportive environment fostered by both male and female colleagues. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Mary-Ann Lindelwa Dunjwa – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Health. We consider some of the work the Department of Health has undertaken to reduce the maternal mortality rate through specific programmes. One example being “MomConnect”, the m-health initiative available to pregnant women throughout South Africa via their mobile phones. We emphasise the need for women to know their rights, empower themselves through education and to be assertive. Collectively these skills and characteristics help unravel traditional gender stereotypes that negatively impact on women’s efforts to succeed in their respective career paths. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Ms Dikeledi Phillistus Magadzi – Parliamentarian, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport and member of the ANC National Executive Committee. We discuss Transport’s broad remit extending from maritime and aviation to road and rail; highlight career options available to women in this traditionally male-biased sector; and stress the need for women to widen their scope of thinking when considering their choice of profession and not restrict it to female typecast roles. When considering factors of success we emphasise the importance of a positive state of mind, seeking out achievers and modelling their behaviour, and making meaningful differences in others lives. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Ms Lumka Yengeni – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Labour. Our conversation centres on labour issues particularly legislation and the implementation of it. We discuss the introduction of the national minimum wage in South Africa; amendments to the labour relations act to ensure all people are equal before the law – to help overcome discriminatory practices; and transformation in the workplace – with respect to women accessing and occupying senior positions. We highlight the need for education and continuous training to up-skill and empower women in the workforce. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Ms Mmamoloko Tryphosa Kubayi – Parliamentarian and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services. In parliament she has served on the: Portfolio Committee on Basic Education; Portfolio Committee on Higher Education & Training; Standing Committee on Appropriations. We discuss the role of ICT as the backbone to the economy and the role of broadband to enable the country’s population, especially rural women, from basic telephony to e-learning, e-health, e-government etc...We look at the challenges encountered by women in leadership and the efforts needed to succeed in both the public or private; and the responsibility that successful women have to mentor upcoming competent cohorts of women in the workforce. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Nocawe Noncedo Mafu – Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements, Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC) and Member of the ANC’s National Executive. We discuss some of the intricacies of the human settlements’ portfolio and the integration of other departments to realise its work. Ms Mafu remarks on the progress of women’s empowerment but warns against complacency; highlighting the importance of overcoming patriarchy through positive efforts of both men and women. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Cornelia September who has been a Member of Parliament for the African National Congress (ANC) since 1999 (former Minister of the Human Settlements, former Chairperson for the Portfolio Committee on Water Affairs and Forestry and a former trade unionist). We discuss some of the instrumental trade union work she was involved in regarding the transformation of unions and salary negotiations for the predominantly female textile industry. We underscore education as an enabler for success, which should be accessible to all. We emphasise that an individual’s achievements are usually the outcome of enabling factors combined with human support structures and sacrifice. Tune in for more…

In today’s programme, on this last day of 2015, Womanity shares some of the words of wisdom, messages of hope and inspiration from guests on the programme. Minister of Science and Technology South Africa, Naledi Pandor; Professor Cheryl De La Rey Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria; Mrs Kile Kwinane: Chairperson and interim National President of South African Women in Construction; Ms Nora Fakude: Executive Director Buscor; Dr. Elsa Springolo: Nuclear Medicine Specialist; Ms Radhia Msuya: High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to South Africa; renowned South African swimmer and Olympic gold medallist Ms Penny Heyns; Ms Thoko Didiza: former Minister of the Republic of South Africa, currently House Chairperson in the Parliament of South Africa; Commissioner Thoko Mpumlwana: Deputy Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality in South Africa; Ms Lira Kohl: Afro-soul vocalist; Ms Zonke Dikana: Afrosoul singer and songwriter; Ms Nambitha Mpumlwana: actress and humanitarian; Professor Rudo Mathivha: Head ICU Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital & WITS University; Ms. Thandiswa Mazwai: South African musician; Ms Buyelwa Sonjica: former Minister of the Republic of South Africa; Ms. Gladys Bogoshi: Chief Executive Officer of Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital; Professor Beatrys Lacquet: Deputy Vice-Chancellor-Information, Knowledge and Infrastructure Management at the University of Witwatersrand; Rosie Motene: South African actress, producer and director; Moshidi Motshegwa: actress, producer and director; Keabetswe Motsilanyane (KB) multi-talented entertainer; Hlubi Mboya: South African Actress and AIDS Ambassador; Professor Sonya T. Smith Howard University, USA; Minister of Labour of the Republic of South Africa, Mildred Oliphant. Tune in for inspiration…

This week we reflect on episodes of the past year with a compilation of some the show’s most memorable segments. Sophie Ndaba, actress, business woman and philanthropist epitomises hard work in her rise from living in an orphanage to fulfilling her dreams, guided by the belief that – faith is the substance of things not seen yet hoped for. South Africa’s Queen of Gospel, Rebecca Malope tells us how fear fuels her drive to succeed. South Africa’s minister of Basic Education Angie Motsekwa recalls the strong influence of her mother on her upbringing - particularly her education. Judith Sephuma shares the inspiration behind her songs and the evolution of her music - singing a few bars from her recent album. Prof. Hlengiwe Mkhize the Deputy Minister of the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services emphasises that there needs to be greater economic leadership and economic inclusion of women. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Chairperson of the African Union highlights the resilience and rise of African women succeeding in all spheres of life. In the last segment of the show we reflect on women in the business sector, starting with Ms. Nonkululeko Gobodo, the Executive Chairman of Sizwe Ntsaluba Gobodo, who emphasises that women bring unique attributes to the workplace & must be afforded the opportunity to carve a place for themselves. Next Bisila Bokoko a pioneering business leader, who focuses on establishing global alliance partnerships for businesses looking to enter new international markets considers how women juggle multiple complexities in their lives. Tune in for more…

This week we reflect on episodes of the past year with a compilation of some the show’s most memorable segments. World renowned singer and humanitarian Yvonne Chaka Chaka gives her philosophy on sharing to empower others. South Africa’s Minister of Social Development Bathabile Olive Dlamini, who has been involved in Social Development since 1994 gives her perspective on gender equality and the struggles women have endured to achieve equal rights. Continuing with the theme of gender equality, Dr. Susan Tager Chief Executive Officer of the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre provides her view of the fact that equal rights do not equate to women and men being the same. Professor Irma Eloff, Dean for the Faculty of Education at the University of Pretoria, highlights how to overcome gender challenges stemming from stereotypical gender-biased thinking. First Officer Annabel Vundla of South African Airways who has flown numerous heads of state and had the privilege of flying one of South Africa greatest icons Nelson Mandela, offers her perspective of factors needed to help women advance, as well as her experience as a role model in aviation. Award winning South African singer Zahara talks about her achievements and shares her special experience with Nelson Mandela, giving a short rendition of the song she sang for him in Qunu. Captain Jane Trembath, who has had an outstanding career as a pilot, discusses women in leadership, followed by multi-award winning Afro-soul vocalist Lira, who speaks about her personal journey of ‘being the change you want to be in the world’. We close today’s show with South Africa’s Minister of Women Susan Shabangu discussing the empowerment of women to enable their success across all sectors of society. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Faith Muthambi, the Minister of Communications. We consider the multiple functions of the media, as a platform to disseminate and access information, as an influencer - and in that capacity the importance of women being appropriately portrayed in the media as a reflection of society. We remark on the capability of social media to empower women through greater connectivity and across geographies. We discuss the transformative effects of education as a tool to radically change people’s lives and the Minister shares her personal story. We address the effects of role models and stress that successful women have a responsibility to help other women succeed. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Prof. Hlengiwe Mkhize - Deputy Minister – Telecommunications & Postal Services (former Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, the Deputy Minister of Economic Development Department and the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training). We discuss some of the Telecommunications & Postal Services Department’s gender empowerment interventions: such as rolling out nationwide access to broadband, emphasising the effects of connectivity as an enabler particularly in the rural environment and the economic opportunities it affords women; the Department’s Techno Girl’s project that focuses on promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and placement with companies. We emphasise the need for more women to occupy leaderships roles in the private sector. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi - African Development Bank Special Envoy on Gender (former Minister of Public Service and Administration & former Minister of Welfare and Population Development in the Republic of South Africa). We discuss on the recent report made by the African Development Bank titled “Women Board Directors of Africa’s Top Listed Companies”. This encompassed the 12 largest African economies and 307 stock exchange listed companies categorised according to large, mid and small cap. Africa is leading emerging markets with 12.7% representation of women on boards. The case has been made that companies with more diverse boards tend to perform better, thus more needs to be done to increase the representation of women on boards. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ambassador of the Republic of Poland - Anna Raduchowska–Brochwicz . We discuss the positive impact of having a high representation of women within the political landscape, in particular reference to the South SADC region, with respect to proving women’s capabilities to deliver in high profile demanding roles. We note that the tipping point for critical mass is 30% representation. However, to attain gender equality requires a multi-stakeholder approach, one that entails formal and civic education, appropriate socialisation in early childhood to counteract gender typecasting, legislative efforts by government, encouraging women to become financially independent. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Dr. Bernadette Lahai Vice President of the Pan African Parliament & Minority Leader of Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) in the Parliament Of Sierra Leone. We review the role of the Pan African Parliament’s Women’s Caucus, which aims to mainstream gender issues in the Pan African Parliament agenda. The scope of the Women’s Caucus encompasses women’s education – formal as well as functional literacy, reproductive health and rights, hereditary rights, land rights and ownership and driving the ratification and signing of important gender related protocols. We emphasise that distinctions continue to be drawn with a different set of rules applying to men and women, which will be overcome as women continue to break barriers to demonstrate their capabilities. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ambassador Sheila Sisulu - Chancellor of Walter Sisulu University. Our conversation acknowledges the significance of education for women to empower themselves, but emphasises the importance of appropriate infrastructure to enable women to contribute to the economy, particularly for those raising young families with a pressing need for affordable, quality, safe schooling for their children. We address issues of gender socialisation, women in leadership and legislative compliance. We discuss factors of success, from competitive siblings, to family guidance, and the multiple enablers that play their collective role in the pathways to an individual’s achievements. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Professor Sonya T. Smith Howard University - Mechanical Engineering and Dr. Shirley Motaung Assistant Dean Research & Innovation Tshwane University of Technology, who actively encourage women to pursue subjects within the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Our conversation focuses on female leadership, from driving gender transformation within academic institutions and other professions, to enabling networks that help to equip women for career advancement (role models, mentors and sponsors), to legislation and constitutional laws which promote gender equality, and the importance of male champions to support gender agendas within organisations. Tune in for more....

This week we talk to Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Marisa Gerards, who is the Ambassador to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesetho and Swaziland. We discuss the historic relationship of the Netherlands with South Africa, its role in the anti-apartheid movement and more recent developments through co-creation initiatives that promote shared learnings between the two states. We address issues of women’s empowerment through some of the programmes the Netherlands has initiated for women in Africa, such as FLOW - Funding leadership opportunities for women, and stress the importance of mentorship and role modelling to build confidence and guide women for career success. We note that culture is not static, that discriminating practices can be overcome, and encourage women to use the legal route when necessary. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to award winning South African actress, producer and director Moshidi Motshegwa. We discuss her journey to success, from discovering her calling for acting at a young age to continuously nurturing her talents. We consider some of the elements required to help women navigate their careers and overcome resistance in male dominated environments and the importance of lifelong learning to remain relevant in your profession. We contemplate the persistence of gender discrimination and acts of violence against women, in spite of the rights women have been afforded through enabling legislation, and review the role of society with regard to raising children to respect one another - irrespective of gender. Tune in for more.

This week we talk to award winning gospel singer Rebecca Malope. We discuss some of her career highlights, the hardships she endured on her road to success, as well as enabling factors, some of which include her enduring faith, fear of failure and key female influencers - good women who have made a mark in the history of humanity. We stress the importance of education as a tool for young women to improve their lives and those of their families. We highlight the need for women to support each other in their endeavours and to help one another to succeed. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ambassador Brigitte Öppinger-Walchshofer, who is the Ambassador of Austria to South Africa. We reflect on key milestones in her 32 year long career particularly her African assignments. We weigh up the importance of women in the workforce as meaningful contributors to their national economies. We consider that the basis of equality between the genders starts off with equal chances commencing with primary education. However to promulgate equality gender roles need to transform, there must be greater co-operation amongst men to participate in gender equality initiatives and more stringent implementation of the numerous pieces of equality legislation that already exists. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ambassador Elisabeth Barbier, who is the Ambassador of France to South Africa. We reflect on the progress of women’s rights globally and on a country specific level, comparing, for instance, South Africa’s Women Empowerment and Gender Equality legislation, which aims for 50:50 parity, to France’s goal to achieve quotas of 40% women on the boards of companies nationwide by 2017. We consider some of the interventions applied to encourage more women to remain in the workforce and achieve better balance between home and work responsibilities – such as flexi-hours, working from home, using mobility devices…We stress the importance of education and encouraging girls to think big and not confine themselves to gender stereotype careers. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Ambassador Martha Cecilia Pinilla-Perdomo, who is the Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia to South Africa and Non-Resident Ambassador of Colombia to Botswana and Namibia. Ambassador Pinilla-Perdomo highlights the strong participation rates of women in the Columbian economic and political community, but emphasises the need for more women to enter leadership roles. Women view challenges and resolutions differently to men, their perspectives are vital, especially on issues that concern women directly, which play out in policy-making. Education is a fundamental driver of transformation and many women are the primary custodians of their children’s education, they have the responsibility of raising the minds of the future. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Major General Katoki Catherine Motlhabane Chief Director of Human Resource Management in the South African National Defence Force. We consider some of the challenges for women working in a male dominated environment, the necessity of proving their worth through competency and some of the interventions underway to achieve the defence force’s transformation objectives of 30% women and 70% men throughout its ranks. Major General Motlhabane highlights the opportunities available to individuals pursuing a military career and the support provided by the Defence Force for self-development to further capacitate their employees. Tune in for more.

This week we talk to Brigadier General Marthie Visser Director of Corporate Staff Services South African Air Force. We consider the contributing factors of gender transformation in the South African Air Force during her 42 year long career. This includes enabling policies to address gender mainstreaming, equality, sexual misconduct and maternity benefits. Gender transformation is an ongoing journey where policies and processes are continuously adapted and adopted to accommodate more women in the military across the ranks. “Achieving success as a woman doesn’t necessarily mean beating men at their own game women can win and be successful on their own terms using the natural abilities they already possess”. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to South African Afrosoul Musician Simphiwe Dana. We discuss the inspiration behind her music and source of her longevity in the entertainment industry. Beyond music, Simphiwe Dana uses her voice to exercise change, as a social activist focused on education, the poor, the dispossessed and feminism. She shares her views on patriarchy as being heavily intertwined with culture and the need to overcome this mindset to further empower women. We also discuss her role as convenor of the African Union’s re-imagined creative hub that considers how arts, culture and heritage contribute to African Union’s Agenda 2063.

This week we talk to legendary South African actress Lillian Dube. We reflect on her career - past and present and life lessons along the way. We also discuss her extensive community work particularly regarding women’s health in areas of HIV, Cancer and Depression and her current project to raise 70,000 school shoes for children annually. We consider the many opportunities available to women today and emphasise the need for continuous skills training to empower themselves to be independent financially and the importance of women supporting each other to lift as they rise. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Admiral Emily Masanabo the Director of Navy Transformation in the South African Navy. We discuss elements that shaped her career development and led to her accomplishments, emphasising the importance of women breaking through glass ceilings to open the way for others to follow in their footsteps. Admiral Masanabo highlights the combined benefits of education and mentorship to capacitate women with the requisite expertise. We address gender equality in previously male dominated sectors and some of the interventions underway to overcome inequality, including driving gender transformation from the bottom up in the Navy. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Keabetswe Motsilanyane, renowned South African performing artist. We discuss a few of her career highlights and in the process consider some of the factors that contribute towards longevity in the entertainment industry, particularly for young performers growing up under the spotlight, such as, nurturing talent, having robust support systems, developing self-confidence and remaining grounded in an ever evolving environment. We raise the issue of gender stereotyping in terms of behavioural expectations and emphasise the need for women to become more assertive, rise above their challenges and take responsibility for their career paths. Tune in for more…

National Police Commissioner: Riah PhiyegaThis week we speak to the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service Ms Mangwashi Victoria “Riah” Phiyega, the first woman to lead the police in its 100 year history. Our conversation covers women breaking glass ceilings in male dominated environments, occupying positions that were previously reserved for men and the effects these female role models have on opening greater possibilities for upcoming cohorts of women. We address aspect of gender parity in the South African Police Service throughout its ranks and the contributing role of institutional organizations like the Women’s Network towards gender development in South Africa as well as the SADC police services. Tune in for more…

In our fifth episode on the 25th AU Summit, we speak to Malawi’s Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Patricia Kaliati. We underscore the value of educating women, and Minister Kaliati remarks on the use of education as a vaccine for the prevention of HIV and AIDS, as well as a tool for the economic empowerment of women. We also stress the importance of educating men about the issues that affect women. We elaborated on the progressive legislation Malawi has in place to protect and empower women covering gender based violence; marriage, divorce and family relations; rules and heritance; child protection and justice; gender equality etc… We reflect on women in leadership across the spectrum and the positive effect of role models. Tune in for more…

In our fourth episode on the 25th AU Summit, we speak to Prof. Nkandu Luo: Minister of Gender and Child Development for Zambia. Her previous ministerial posts include: Chiefs and Traditional Affairs; and Local Government and Housing Trade. We discuss various campaigns that she has launched to promote women’s development in Zambia as well as recondition gender perspectives through high impact initiatives. These include: mentorship programmes for women in the workplace, linking young women to businesses, the launch of a women’s bank, promoting financial management and up-skilling women etc... We discuss the need for a paradigm shift, for women to start thinking big and outside the box to take advantage of accessible resources and assert their economic independence. Tune in for more…

In our third episode on the 25th AU Summit, we speak to Dr. Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for Botswana. Her previous ministerial posts include: Works, Transport and Communications; Trade, Industry, Wildlife and Tourism; Communications, Science, and Technology; and Education.We discuss Botswana’s controversial stance not to subscribe to gender quotas nor to ratify SADC’s gender protocol. However, this decision has not curtailed women from being appointed to key positions like ministers, judges, auditor generals, etc…in Botswana. We remark on the progress Africa is making with respect to women’s development in comparison to the rest of the world and how increasing women’s to resources will help move to the next level. Tune in for more…

In our second episode on the 25th AU Summit, we speak to Mrs Zainab Hawa Bangura, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict and former Minister of Health and Sanitation as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs in Sierra Leone. We discuss some of the highlights in her career, particularly the work in her current position to combat sexual violence against women in conflict countries. We address the importance of progressive men occupying leadership positions, who are supportive of empowering women by driving both policy reform and cultural shifts. We acknowledge the multiple roles of women in society and their capacity as change agents to positively transform their families, communities, country and continent. Tune in for more

This week marks our first episode on the 25th AU Summit, under the theme "Year of Women Empowerment and Development towards Africa's Agenda 2063". We speak to Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Chairperson of the African Union on key outcomes of the summit: the transformation efforts underway to better enable women working in agriculture; emphasising the need to deliver on gender quotas across the board to move towards 50:50 parity; the launch of the African Union Foundation; and the plans for the African Union to become self-reliant. Additionally we address women in leadership, overcoming patriarchy, eradicating poverty through education and more.

This week we speak to Sophie Ndaba, award winning actress, businesswoman, philanthropist and charity patron. We discuss some of the factors contributing to her success, under the mantra, “faith is the substance of things not seen yet hoped for”, and acknowledge the incremental value that every endeavour contributes to an individual’s future development. We consider the importance of mentorship to support young women’s progress in their career paths and emphasise that a person’s background does not dictate their future. Tune in for more…

Bisila Bokoko: CEO and Founder of BBES InternationalThis week we speak to Bisila Bokoko pioneering business leader and philanthropist. Our conversation highlights some of her endeavours, such as promoting literacy in Africa by establishing libraries in rural areas throughout the continent and her vision to publish the rich oral narratives of African history. We address women’s leadership and entrepreneurship, emphasising the need for women to promote themselves, to take pride in their achievements and become more assertive in the business world. We discuss discipline, faith, dreams, role models and education as key factors that shaped Bisila’s path to success. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to Xolile Tshabalala - award winning South African actress and director about her passion for storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera. We address some of the pervasive stereotypes affecting women in the entertainment industry and how to alleviate these issues through empowerment. Our discussion examines the importance of role models to build confident, independent young women and we emphasise the value of education as a tool to longevity for sustainable employment. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to Rosie Motene - award winning South African actress, producer and director about her career highlights and philanthropic work. Our conversation addresses the need for more women to occupy leadership roles in the entertainment industry and the positive effects this has on other women across the industry value chain. We consider the importance of consistent dialogues to deal with women’s issues and advance these causes, as opposed to bursts of short-lived albeit well intentioned initiatives. We also discuss her involvement with POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse) spanning across victims and perpetrators to stop violence against women and girls in Africa. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to South African actress Hlubi Mboya. Our conversation covers some of her career highlights, touching on her iconic role as Nandipha Sithole, a character living with HIV, which led to Hlubi becoming an ambassador for HIV AIDS in pursuit of social justice to de-stigmatise the disease. Her charitable endeavours across the continent include working with youth, particularly young women, promoting education as a tool to succeed. We touch on the need for greater inclusion of women throughout the film and entertainment industry, both in front and behind the scenes, and the role media plays through its portrayal of women in disseminating viewpoints. Tune in for more…

This week we speak to Mildred Oliphant, the Minister of Labour of the Republic of South Africa. Our conversation highlights the role of employment equity legislation to support the gender perspective, in particular the issue of equal pay for work of equal value; the monitoring of its implementation and some of the punitive measures in place for companies that disregard its application. We discuss women’s self-empowerment through education and skills training to advance or change their career prospects. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms Thoko Didiza House Chairperson in the National Assembly of Parliament in the Republic of South Africa (former Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs as well as former Minister for Public Works - RSA). Reflecting on the political gains and rights that women in South Africa have today we retrace the journey of women’s movements, with the mobilisation of the women’s coalition, the necessity of women to work collectively to advance their interests and to establish measures that ensure current achievements are built upon. In the process instruments have been established as well as progressive legislation to support women. We consider some work place dynamics from system changes to leadership styles in pursuit of diversity and greater inclusion of women in the economy. Tune in for more

This week we are joined by multi-award winning South African musician Zahara. We discuss some of her career highlights and humanitarian work in her role as ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital and her Blooming Flower Project which helps young girls. We consider some of the factors that contribute to her success as well as the values that keep her grounded in her career, and Zahara shares a touching experience of singing for Nelson Mandela in his Qunu home. We reflect on the importance of education for young women and the need for them to take control of their own lives and to persevere with their dreams through hard work. Tune in for more…

This week’s programme features Nonkululeko Gobodo, she is the Executive Chairman of Sizwe Ntsaluba Gobodo the largest black audit and accounting firm and the fifth largest in South Africa. We discuss some of the challenges women have to contend with in male dominated professions and the need to derive more equitable solutions to allow women to make their contributions to society and the economy. We address the importance of dreaming big and fulfilling ambitions through perseverance. In leadership we acknowledge that gender stereotyping must be overcome by employees to accept the characteristics of strong women leaders; the responsibility leaders have towards their employees’ livelihoods; the significance of pursuing growth and new directions to remain competitive and prevent stagnation. Tune in for more…

This week’s programme features Professor Beatrys Lacquet The Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Information, Knowledge and Infrastructure Management at the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa and Professor of electrical and electronic engineering. Our conversation touches on the need to socially de-stigmatise stereotypical traditional gender career streams to encourage more women to enter fields that in the past have been male dominated. We address supportive structures, stressing the importance of mentors to steer people through challenges they many encounter during their careers. We highlight some of the opportunities to pursue a profession in engineering and the academic pre-requisites to do so. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by multi-award winning South African musician Thandiswa Mazwai. We discuss some of her experiences straddling old South Africa with new South Africa and their influence, together with other elements, on her work and the process of developing her unique sound. We reflect on the importance of women becoming more assertive in their careers by transitioning from a tendency to occupy background positions to foreground roles. We remark that through increasing the visibility of empowered women other women are encouraged to empower themselves.Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Ms. Gladys Bogoshi the Chief Executive Officer of Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. We discuss some of the challenges and virtues of operating public health facilities and her experiences as a female CEO in this sector. Whilst women have proven their professional capability, they still have to navigate soft issues such as, managing home lives and organising children by activating support systems to assist with these aspects to help them excel in their careers. We remark on the importance of identifying career choices early on in life, in order to strategically build a career path with an end goal in mind. Tune in for more…..

This week we are joined by the Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to the Republic of South Africa Ms Josefina Pitra Diakite. We discuss some of the landmarks in her ambassadorial career, representing Angola across the world and managing the image of a country in conflict. We consider the role women played in the Angolan liberation movement and the impact this had for the recognition of women’s capabilities, particularly in positions of leadership, both on the work and home front. We also address the current efforts underway to restore moral values in society, promoted under the theme of Angola’s 2015 Women’s month, celebrated annually in March, “Angolan Women Together For The Restoration Of The Values In Society”. Tune in for more…..

This week we are joined by Professor Christina Lundgren, Academic Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology, at the University of the Witwatersrand, and clinical head of Anaesthesiology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. We discuss some of the pioneering work in her career and factors contributing to her success. Although the ratio of female to male anaesthetist specialists has increased at the bottom of the pyramid women are under-represented in higher echelons of the discipline. We consider role models, mentorship and succession planning as mechanisms to encourage female leadership. Tune in for more.

This week we are joined by Professor Lufuno Rudo Mathivha, Head of Department for the Division of Critical Care Medicine, Intensive Care Unit Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and the University of the Witwatersrand. We discuss aspects of her career, particularly overcoming gender challenges, and the responsibility of female professionals who occupy leadership roles to iron out obstacles to smooth the way for future generations of women entering the work place. We reflect on some of the structures in today’s society, like relationship networks and flexible working hours, which make it possible for women to have successful careers and family lives. Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by Ms Buyelwa Sonjica who served as South Africa’s Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs (2009-2010), Minister of Minerals and Energy (2006-2009), Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry (2004-2006), Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology (2003-2004), and currently Independent Non-Executive Director of Kumba Iron Ore.We discuss the importance of the South African constitution’s founding principle of non-sexism to guide enabling legislation for the full emancipation and economic participation of women in society. To further advance women’s issues requires strategic collective leadership with representatives from all spheres of society. We remark that empowering women is an economic imperative, powered by education and aided by sharing knowledge of best practices for success, and reflect on the positive evolution of culture towards women in response to social effects, overriding oppressive practices. Tune in for more…

This week’s programme features South African jazz and Afro-pop singer Judith Sephuma. We review some of the highlights in her career, underlining the importance of a solid foundation, built upon education, and being future focussed for success - to constantly push boundaries and be part of your discipline’s evolution. We discuss the inroads women have made in the work front as entrepreneurs or corporate players and the positive impact career mothers have on developing aspirant children. Tune in for more…

This week’s programme features South African jazz and Afro-pop singer Judith Sephuma. We review some of the highlights in her career, underlining the importance of a solid foundation, built upon education, and being future focussed for success - to constantly push boundaries and be part of your discipline’s evolution. We discuss the inroads women have made in the work front as entrepreneurs or corporate players and the positive impact career mothers have on developing aspirant children. Tune in for more…

This week’s programme features multi award winning singer, composer and performer Dr. Sibongile Khumalo. Our discussion addresses contributions of the arts towards humanity; emphasising cultural, social and educational contexts. We highlight the outcomes of arts education towards cognitive development and life skills. We consider the multidimensional characteristics of women that should be embraced rather than suppressed as women assert their identities and pursue their choices in life whilst overcoming gender stereotypes. Tune in for more...

This week we are joined by Patricia Colbert, Senior Gender Advisor - UN World Food Programme and Leigh Hildyard, Regional Gender and Protection Advisor for Southern Africa - UN World Food Programme. We discuss some of the complexities of humanitarian aid, from determining vulnerable groups in crisis stricken communities to securing donor funding. We highlight projects, like the World Food Programme School Feeding project, which tries to improve education prospects for girls and the Purchase for Progress pilot, which aims to advance the commercial prospects of smallholder farmers, especially women. We consider the importance of women in leadership, across private and public sectors, to ensure that women’s needs are priorities and recognise that the women who occupy positions of power are role models that inspire other women to achieve their personal goals. Tune in for more...

This week we are joined by Ms Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi - African Development Bank Special Envoy on Gender (former Minister of Public Service and Administration & former Minister of Welfare and Population Development in the Republic of South Africa). We discuss past social injustices and the present struggle for economic development in Africa, as well as the need to overcome inequalities in society to ensure inclusive growth for men and women. To promote greater economic inclusion of women, criteria for finance applications should be re-evaluated, institutions should look more creatively and flexibly at what the asset base for women could be, not only fixed assets. Empirical evidence asserts that boards which include women yield greater profit margins. We discuss quotas as measures to breakthrough gender imbalances in the private sector and highlight empowerment legislation as a mechanism to create space for women in the private sector. Tune in for more...

This week we are joined by Ms Thoko Didiza House Chairperson in the National Assembly of Parliament in the Republic of South Africa (former Minister for Agriculture and Land Affairs as well as former Minister for Public Works - RSA). Reflecting on the political gains and rights that women in South Africa have today we retrace the journey of women’s movements, with the mobilisation of the women’s coalition, the necessity of women to work collectively to advance their interests and to establish measures that ensure current achievements are built upon. In the process instruments have been established as well as progressive legislation to support women. We consider some work place dynamics from system changes to leadership styles in pursuit of diversity and greater inclusion of women in the economy. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by South Africa’s Minister of Women in the Presidency Susan Shabangu. Our conversation delves into the importance of female leadership addressing the critical role it has played and continues to exert in shaping South Africa across social, political and economic spheres. We highlight some of the factors that advance the interests of women, both socially and economically, such as legislation and empowerment through education and upskilling, but note on a cultural level that women need to identify ways of dealing with patriarchy to break traditions that hinder their progress. We also discuss the Ministry’s “365 Days of Activism” an inclusive yearlong campaign opposing violence against women and children.Tune in for more….

This week we are joined by South Africa’s Minister of Social Development Bathabile Dlamini. We discuss the evolution of social development in South Africa to fight poverty, with initiatives like grants, accessible education, early childhood development and efforts to radically transform the lives of ordinary women who bear the brunt of poverty. The struggle for gender equality is multi-faceted - we raise practical gender issues of water and electricity provision, the importance of understanding legislation and making laws work in women’s favour, as well as the need for greater involvement from men in the common pursuit for gender equality. Additionally, we reflect on past gender achievements such as establishing the Commission on Gender Equality, 50:50 representation in the ANC and the Progressive Women’s Movement, and remark that for future progress women should be united in support of key issues. Tune in for more….

This week we talk to Zolani Mahola lead singer of Freshlyground. We review some of the landmarks in her musical career and the reflective nature of musicians’ work, which tends to mirror social, political and cultural experiences. We acknowledge that patriarchal beliefs affect the way some men perceive women and as a result may hinder women’s progress; these issues need to be confronted to change perspectives. In terms of career development we look at the role of positive support structures, self belief and ambition as important factors for success. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Nambitha Mpumlwana an award winning actress, businesswoman, humanitarian, philanthropist and charity patron. We discuss her work in these areas and the different responsibilities required to satisfy various stakeholders’ expectations. We consider the importance of social and community contributions, like helping to bridge generational gaps between grandparents supporting grandchildren orphaned by AIDS; the importance of nurturing children into informed responsible adults; and empowering women to take charge for their lives whilst consciously shaping the way they are represented in society to influence perceptions. Tune in for more.

This week we talk to award winning Afro-soul vocalist and songwriter Lira. We discuss some of her career highlights and factors contributing to her success. In the process we reveal evolutions in music industry over the last decade, with musicians becoming increasingly independent and owning more elements of the industry value chain; we reflect on turning challenging circumstances to your advantage by adjusting your perspectives of situations; we emphasise the enabling effects of education as an enduring and indispensible tool for personal progress; we acknowledge the importance of female role models and mentors to inspire young women to fulfil their goals. Tune in for more…

This week we talk to Natalie du Toit renowned South African Swimmer and Paralympic and Commonwealth Games gold medallist. We discuss a few of the milestones in her career and factors that contributed to her success, particularly turning challenging situations into positive outcomes to fulfil her dreams. We emphasise the need to persevere and power though difficult periods. We caution against stereotyping individuals; these external perceptions can be impediments to fulfilling peoples’ potential and limiting their possibilities. We highlight knowledge sharing and mentoring as important elements to aid women’s professional development and much more…

This week we are joined by Zonke Dikana, renowned South African Afrosoul singer and songwriter. We discuss a few of the landmarks in her career thus far and plans for the future. In the process we consider some of the elements that contribute towards building a successful career in music, such as, mentorship, strong support systems with knowledgeable guardians, being self-assured and confident. We acknowledge the multi-faceted roles that women play in society and emphasise the need for women to encourage and motivate other women to overcome any limitations (social or self-imposed) and fulfil their aspirations. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Penny Heyns, renowned South African swimmer and Olympic gold medallist. We discuss personal characteristics that contribute to a successful mindset and apply to all domains, from sports stadia to corporate boardrooms. Qualities include being purpose driven, optimistic, self-motivated, self-managed, adaptable, resilient, and willing to take risks. The road to success is not an easy journey, but each person must decide what he or she wants out of life, find their talents, use them, embrace the opportunities that they are presented with wholeheartedly and help others to do the same. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Louise Carver, renowned South African singer and songwriter. We discuss a few of her career highlights and in the process consider some of the factors that contribute towards longevity in the music industry, particularly for young performers growing up under the spotlight, such as, nurturing talent, having robust support systems, developing self-confidence and remaining grounded in an ever evolving environment. We raise the issue of gender stereotyping in terms of behavioural expectations and emphasise the need for women to become more assertive, rise above their challenges and take responsibility for their career paths. Tune in for more…

This week we are joined by Mrs Zoleka Lebelo, Principal of Alexander High School and Mrs Thandi Magwaza, Head of Life Orientation Department at Kwabhekilanga High School. Our conversation considers the roles of different stakeholders in high school education, stressing the need for greater collaboration amongst interest groups to actively participate in learners’ education, to help ensure that school systems produce knowledgeable resourceful adults who contribute positively to society. This entails building adequate support structures, providing comprehensive guidance on subject choices, developing life skills, mentoring, promoting self-confidence etc…We emphasise that education is a tool through which people can overcome stereotypes and better their lives no matter what, and much more…

This week we are joined by renowned musician and humanitarian Yvonne Chaka Chaka. We discuss some of her career highlights and the contributions of music and musicians in social causes, such as campaigning for freedom and equality, whether in the course of South Africa’s own liberation struggle or other global issues. We address aspects of her humanitarian work, as a Goodwill Ambassador for Malaria in Africa, and the effects of sustainable initiatives designed to empower disenfranchised women on the continent. We raise the topic of knowledge and education as critical elements towards women’s development, emphasising lifelong learning, and much more…

This week we are joined by air traffic controllers Ramona Abrahams and Kagiso Bokaba from Air Traffic Navigation Services. They offer their insights into some of the enabling factors that contribute towards women’s career development in pro-active organisations that promote transformation, empowering women to thrive in gender balanced environments (such as internal and external support systems, training and development programs etc). We discuss the importance of nurturing female leadership; encouraging knowledge exchange by creating reciprocal teaching and learning cycles; exposing women to new career opportunities, and much more…

This week we are joined by Captain Jane Trembath and First Officer Annabel Vundla from South African Airways, who relay some of their achievements on their ascent through the ranks of the predominantly male dominated world of aviation. Our conversation highlights various global attitudes towards women occupying leadership positions and the necessity of navigating gender dynamics in different cultural contexts across the globe. We discuss the significance of role models to inspire upcoming generations of women to consider new possibilities for their futures; emphasise the importance of confidence, self-belief and discipline to fulfil individuals’ ambitions, and much more…

This week we are joined by Dr. Nadine Broeze and Dr. Carla Norval specialist surgeons with a primary interest in oncological breast surgery. We consider how gender challenges, experienced by young female professionals, can bring out qualities of determinism, competitiveness and focus for work excellence. All round success is the outcome of negotiating between personal and professional commitments. We discuss managing breast cancer through individualised treatments that are tailored to restore patients’ physical and emotional wellbeing in their recovery; stressing the importance of early detection. We highlight the need for accessible affordable healthcare solutions for women, irrespective of their socio-economic status, and much more….

This week we are joined by Dr. Yasmin Adam who heads up the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the largest hospital in Africa. We acknowledge the successful transformation of equitable gender ratios in medicine, as a product of the quota interventions medical schools put in place and the positive impact this has had on female leadership in hospital environments. A further development has been the growth of female medical specialists, particularly in the Obstetrics & Gynaecology discipline. We also consider the long-term effects of the South African government's HPV vaccine campaign to vaccinate school girls for the prevention of cervical cancer in later life; and much more.

This week we are joined by Dr Susan Tager, Chief Executive Officer of the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre. We highlight the tremendous commitment individuals undertake to become medical specialists and the resources that are invested to realise these ambitions. We examine the evolutionary nature of women’s career paths to adjust to various lifestage changes they encounter, for instance pregnancy and child rearing, and the importance for women to renegotiate their terms of office to satisfy their professional and personal needs. We also consider the perspective of gender differences as strengths, which should be leveraged to foster work environments that are more conducive to women; and much more…

This week we continue celebrating Women’s Month in South Africa and speak to Angie Motshekga, South African Minister of Basic Education and President of the African National Congress Women’s League. Our conversation highlights the fortitude displayed by politically active women in early resistance movements leading to the formation of the ANCWL, and the evolution of ANCWL into its present structure; one which supports the emancipation and liberation of women both inside and outside the ANC. We discuss life-stage and circumstantial factors that impact girls’ education value chains, stretching from primary to tertiary level, and spill-over effects into their career choices, progress within organisational hierarchies; and much more...

This week as we continue to celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, we are joined by Edna Molewa, Minister of Environmental Affairs, South Africa. Our conversation reflects on the progress women have made in South Africa, particularly in the political arena and touches on several elements to promote gender equality in the private sector. This includes the Women’s Charter of 1954, as a guiding strategy, and more recently the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill; the capability of women to unite collectively for causes, irrespective of their political allegiances; extending the role of women in government to support women in the private sector. Looking to the future, we emphasise the numerous opportunities that are now available for women, as a result of past efforts that were undertaken to strive for women’s rights, and much more…

This week marks the beginning of Women’s Month in South Africa, and we are joined by Naledi Pandor, Minister of Science and Technology, South Africa. Our conversation emphasises the importance of education to help women attain their independence and access to greater opportunities for themselves and their families. We discuss the progress women have achieved in governance across the continent, as well as the need to persistently build on these gains and develop a pipeline of future female leaders. We address the impact of science and technology in shifting Africa’s position from one of customer to supplier and the mechanisms to empower women pursuing careers in science and technology fields, and much more…

This week marks the beginning of Women’s Month in South Africa, and we are joined by Naledi Pandor, Minister of Science and Technology, South Africa. Our conversation emphasises the importance of education to help women attain their independence and access to greater opportunities for themselves and their families. We discuss the progress women have achieved in governance across the continent, as well as the need to persistently build on these gains and develop a pipeline of future female leaders. We address the impact of science and technology in shifting Africa’s position from one of customer to supplier and the mechanisms to empower women pursuing careers in science and technology fields, and much more…

This week’s programme features Prof Cheryl de la Rey, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria to discuss the game changing nature of university education for self development and societal benefit. This conversation touches on gender transformation within the university system, particularly amongst increased female enrolments across various disciplines, which has been one of the markers of South Africa’s success as a democracy. Other aspects of the discussion address: legislation as an enabling function to promote equality; the need for more female role models in diverse positions and industries; the importance of nurturing talent and leadership for the future that is contextually relevant to address the local and regional landscape, and much more…

This week we talk to Her Excellency Radhia N. M. Msuya High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to South Africa. Our conversation highlights gender transformations that have occurred in governance in Africa, particularly Tanzania; overcoming pervading stereotypes of gender roles; the role of legislation as a mechanism to counter obstacles that hinder women’s progress and development and much more….

This week’s show features Dr. Elsa Springolo, a Nuclear Medicine Specialist, who was one of the first qualified practitioners in this discipline in South Africa. Our conversation addresses various transitions that have occurred in the medical field in relation to women pursuing a career in medicine. We debate some of the challenges working women face, how they negotiate and fulfil multiple roles in their lives, and some of the enabling characteristics the help realise their ambitions, and much more…

This week’s show features Major General Masego Yvonne Botsheleng, Head of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), South African Police Service. Our conversation focuses on women in the police service. Some of the points raised in this discussion include the role of the FCS and various interventions that have been developed to support and encourage women to pursue careers in the police service and much more….Should you require any clarification or further information please contact me.

This week’s programme features Mrs Kile Kwinane: Chairperson and interim National President of South African Women in Construction and Mrs Nora Fakude: Executive Director Buscor. This is the second of a two part series that addresses women in the construction and transport sectors. Our guests share their personal journeys into these respective industries, they discuss how they overcame some of the obstacles that confronted them as well as the way forward for more women to enter the construction and transport industries, and much more…

This week’s programme features Mrs Kile Kwinane: Chairperson and interim National President of South African Women in Construction and Mrs Nora Fakude: Executive Director Buscor. This is the first of a two part series that addresses women in the construction and transport sectors. Our guests share their personal journeys into these respective industries, they discuss how they overcame some of the obstacles that confronted them as well as the way forward for more women to enter the construction and transport industries, and much more…

In this week’s programme we discuss the Southern African Development Community Gender Protocol with Magdeline Mathiba –Madibela: Head of SADC Gender Unit and Ntombi Mbadlanyana, Gender Links South Africa. We examine some of the deciding factors that led to the formation of the Southern African Development Community Gender Protocol; the extensive networks that ensure the implementation of the protocol throughout the region and monitor its adherence; and the way forward for the gender development in the region post 2015, and much more…

This week’s programme features Mrs Alet Beyl, Attorney for the University of Johannesburg Soweto Law Clinic and Ms Louise Bick, Director Werksmans Attorneys and head of Pro Bono Law. We discuss recent legislative developments affecting women, like the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill and the processes of implementing new legislation. Some of the points raised in this discussion include the challenges of hybrid societies and the need to acknowledge the co-existence of customary and country law; the various roles the pro-bono legal system plays as advisors and mediators, as well as litigators; the necessity for pro-active education to inform people of their legal rights and recourse and much more …

This week’s programme features Ms Marthe Muller, Chief Operations Officer for South African Women In Dialogue and Dr. Zanele Ndaba from WITS Business School. Our conversation considers paid and unpaid labour contributions of women towards productive societies. Some of the points raised in this discussion include the value of unpaid work efforts, various challenges women experience upon re-entering the workforce after periods of absence, building economically responsible and sustainable workforces, and much more …

This week’s programme features Ms Ntsoaki Mamashela, Director for Employment Equity the Department Labour, South Africa and Prof. Deirdre Byrne, Head of the Institute for Gender Studies at University of South Africa. Our conversation focuses on women in the work force. Some of the points raised in this discussion include legislation in the workplace that was designed to protect female employees’ rights, various work creation initiatives, skills development and much more …

This week’s programme features Advocate Joyce Maluleke, special advisor to the Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities on South Africa’s Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill. We examine some of the deciding factors behind the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill; specific aspects of the Bill, such as attaining at least a minimum of 50 percent equal representation and meaningful participation of women in all decision-making positions and structures; and how the Bill will be implemented throughout public and private sectors, and much more

This week’s programme features Professor Irma Eloff, Dean for the Faculty of Education at the University of Pretoria. Our conversation touches on the roles of teachers, students, institutions, education systems and education itself, as a tool for women’s progress and development. In part of this discussion we contemplate some of the challenges women face in the work place and explore solutions to overcome these obstacles, and much more…

This week’s programme features the Deputy Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Dr. Pregs Govendor. Our discussion highlights various responsibilities of government to facilitate, protect and promote women’s rights. We examine the implications of resource access, the distribution of services, and policy formulation in relation to uplifting women’s lives, and much more…

In this week’s show Commissioner Thoko Mpumlwana, the Deputy Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality in South Africa, joins us to unpack some of the visible and less visible deterrents of gender equality, like patriarchy, tradition and poverty. We explore the role of various interventions, such as legislation and cultural reform, to overcome barriers of equality and much more.