Barrier Breakers: Celebrating Women's Month
Aug 07 2024 • 5 min read • Women's Month
ARE YOU READY TO BREAK BARRIERS AND DISRUPT THE STATUS QUO?
WORDS FROM THE WOMEN WHO HAVE
As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, we are reminded of the persistent under representation of women in leadership roles and the alarming data stipulating that, at the current rate of change, it’s going to take at least 5 generations* to close the economic gender gap. That is too long to wait for women who are ready to lead NOW. Consider Kamala Harris, who’s had to wait for the old guard to literally falter on a global stage before being deemed ready.
“People in your life will tell you, though, it’s not your time. It’s not your turn. Nobody like you has done it before. Don’t you listen to that.” – Kamala Harris
As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, we are reminded of the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership roles and the alarming data stipulating that, at the current rate of change, it’s going to take at least 5 generations* to close the economic gender gap. That is too long to wait for women who are ready to lead NOW.
Consider Kamala Harris, who’s had to wait for the old guard to literally falter on a global stage before being deemed ready.
“People in your life will tell you, though, it’s not your time. It’s not your turn. Nobody like you has done it before. Don’t you listen to that.” – Kamala Harris
This isn’t an isolated phenomenon. Structural barriers and the reluctance of some men and systems to support women’s growth remain significant hurdles.
Men have had a head start in the workplace due to traditional norms, giving them an advantage in experience and power. However, this does not mean women haven't been ready to lead; in fact, it underscores the urgent need to address this imbalance and recognise women's readiness and potential to lead. We commend the men who recognise this and actively sponsor the progression of women within their organisations.
The reality is, with such disproportionate gender parity in the workplace, the only way to balance the scales is to actively drive up the representation of women and create environments that leverage and celebrate women’s unique strengths, even if it creates discomfort at first. How do we encourage organisations to welcome this change? And for those who do, how can they do more?
To explore this further we spoke to some the most fearless women who have broken barriers in different industries, to unpack how they leveraged their strengths to navigate and shatter the limitations placed upon them.
Marjorie Ngwenya, former president of the UK's Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, and a member of the Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Committee speaks about the importance of consciousness in addressing structural and systemic barriers facing women.
“I think it starts with consciousness, that we are all role models to somebody, that many of us are in positions of privilege and influence, with the knowledge that the playing field is not level for all. We must also address the gender pay gap as well as systemic barriers. Once the root causes are surfaced, the work can begin.”
Marjorie’s call for awareness and action on systemic issues highlights the responsibility we all share in creating a more equitable workplace as we defy stereotypes and play by our own rules.
Mapule Mzimba, COO at Discovery Bank, the world’s first behavioural bank, has an unapologetic approach to being a top exec in a male dominated world.
“I became emboldened in showing up in my feminine glory, as I navigated male dominated corporate spaces, that were not built for or accepting of me. “
She inspires women around her to live powerfully on purpose and creates safe spaces to allow others to flourish.
“I Live with clarity of my purpose, being intentional with my thoughts and actions. This enables me as a leader, to show up authentically. And in turn, frees others up to do the same, so we realise the true benefits of diversity.”
Mapule’s call for realising one’s power requires action and courage to fearlessly show up as oneself, to break the mould and to empower those around to do the same, as that is where true value of diversity lies.
Kirsten Neuschäfer, a South African sailor and the first woman to win the 2022 Golden Globe Race, is shattering barriers for generations to come. She has significantly contributed to the progress of representation of women in a male dominated sport and shared her thoughts on how she’s approached the challenges she’s faced.
“As women rise to power, they might encounter more resistance – as gender equality is a change from the old norm, and changes are initially met with resistance. I think women have to meet that resistance with grace but firmness, and competence. “
Kirsten reflects on how societal stereotypes has gifted her even greater determination to reach her potential.
“I had to work twice as hard to prove that I was equally capable, which although at the time, was frustrating, made me grow far more, and reach further for my greatest potential. The more anyone thought I was less capable as a female, the more determined I was to prove them wrong.”
Kirsten’s determination to prove her capabilities despite scepticism showcases the strength required to break barriers. And recognising that it’s not enough to be ready to lead, but that one must forge ahead and step into uncomfortable spaces – as the red carpet may not be laid out and ready for you to walk on it.
Fahmeeda Cassim-Surtee, CEO at DStv Media sales, believes the biggest challenge facing the next generation of women leaders is the courage to be themselves and encourages women to be authentic.
“Find your unique leadership style, be authentic, be yourself. Prepare by constantly learning and never being afraid to fail.”
She leverages her sphere of influence to champion diverse perspectives at DStv Media Sales.
“I drive meaningful change by being intentional about giving women a voice in the workplace. By constantly celebrating achievements of female leaders and profiling those who are change agents in the workplace. By allowing other “Women In”.”
Deana Jardim, EVP Marketing, Business Development and Customer Experience at ISC2, emphasises the importance of building teams with the capacity to thrive.
“Diversity and inclusion remain a core strategic focus for us as a business. It’s important to find a work environment where you will thrive holistically - the flow that comes from doing what you love with people you admire, and respect is simply magic.”
She believes self-awareness is critical to sound decision making and that personal development unlocks superpowers.
“Drive self-awareness around the unconscious biases that cloud our decision-making. Transition towards inclusive ecosystems, shifting the topic of diversity away from a tick-box exercise to a superpower.
Aisha Pandor, Co-Founder & Former CEO of SweepSouth, Co-founder and CEO of Pandora Biosciences, a true change-maker, shares how she thinks about building the types of businesses that are needed:
“I believe business should be a vehicle for good, and building products and services that make people’s lives better. I build from my own context, as a woman, and solve for the challenges women face, as I have a deep understanding and empathy to inform appropriate product & service design.”
In recognising that businesses are still predominantly led by men, she reflects on what the critical issues are for leaders to address:
“Operating Values led businesses, that recognise that for profit and positive societal impact are not mutually exclusive. And through this we will see more impact, inclusivity and empowerment.”
These insights from accomplished women highlight a powerful truth: the path to leadership is paved with resilience, authenticity, and a commitment to being a rebel with a cause. This journey requires not only personal conviction but also a collective effort to dismantle barriers and create opportunities. But it’s important to know that women require sponsorship that goes beyond a tick-box exercise, but one that truly embraces the differences women bring to leadership to unlock significant value.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s acknowledge both the strides made and the journey ahead. We know that women are not only ready to lead; but that they are essential to creating a different world than we know today. Together, we can create an inclusive environment where everyone thrives.
The question to ask ourselves is, “Are we doing enough and are we ready for real change."