The recently held Women’s Indaba 2024, which was curated by the dedicated women of the Western Cape Regional Student Representative Council – Nomfundo Khumalo (Chairperson), Karabo Mathosa (Secretary) and Sisanda Ntongana (Treasurer) – was a remarkable initiative aimed at utilising Unisa as a platform of engagement.
This event sought to expose young female students to the wisdom and experiences of insightful speakers. The roundtable discussion was designed to address the uncomfortable realities women face in leadership roles. Whether one is a leader, a mother, a sister, or a student, being a woman means embodying the ability to multitask across various roles, which is the hallmark of a phenomenal leader.
Topics on the programme delved into the stereotypes that society imposes on resilient, strong and powerful women. The goal was to create a platform where the theme “Empowering leadership: Building a society that promotes women’s leadership” could flourish. The aim was to engage in critical discourse about the disqualification of women when they fail and the societal barriers that hinder their progress.
The event featured a line-up of distinguished speakers who brough a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Among them were:
The impact of the Women’s Indaba was profound. It provided a safe and empowering space for young women to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and learn from each other.
The event inspired many attendees to pursue leadership roles with renewed confidence and determination. The discussion sparked a sense of solidarity and community among the participants, reinforcing the importance of supporting one another in the face of societal challenges.
Moreover, the event highlighted the need for continuous efforts to dismantle the barriers that women face in leadership. It encouraged both men and women to actively participate in creating a more inclusive and equitable society. The insights gained from the speakers and the collaborative spirit of the attendees set the stage for ongoing initiatives and conversations aimed at promoting women’s leadership within and beyond the University.
The event’s focus was to foster a society that not only supports but actively promotes women in leadership positions, embracing feminism within a global context we strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
The message from the RSRC to encourage all women was: Trust your actions; every step you take towards equality and justice matters. Trust in your actions, no matter how small they may seem. Each effort contributes to a larger movement, a wave of change that can reshape our society. Stand firm in your convictions and know that your dedication and hard work are paving the way for a brighter future!
Quote of the day: “Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.” – Rumi
* By Nomfundo Khumalo, Chairperson SRC Western Cape Region, article edited by Lee-Anne Davids, Communication Officer, Unisa Western Cape Region
Publish date: 2024/10/16