Celebrating the Top 10 Female Trailblazers in South Africa
Empowering Women in Business
South Africa’s business landscape has been profoundly influenced by remarkable women. These women have broken barriers and pioneered change across many industries. Their impact is felt in corporate boardrooms, entrepreneurial ventures, and beyond. They continue to pave the way for future generations, influencing sectors from finance and technology to healthcare and entrepreneurship.
Here’s a look at some key figures driving change and progress in South African business. Bianca Mashao compiled this list of 10 fierce women.
Dr. Patience Mpofu
Dr. Patience Mpofu is a distinguished executive and sustainability thought leader in the mining sector. With over twenty years of senior leadership experience, she encompasses various facets of the mining value chain. As the CEO of Insight Mining Experts, she focuses on advancing critical mineral strategies for a sustainable mining future.
Patience is a sought-after speaker at major mining conferences worldwide. The author of "Unleashing My Super Powers," she began her career as a metallurgist. Since then, she has held prominent roles in strategy, business development, mergers, acquisitions, and sustainability. She even served as Vice President for an Australian mining company.
Patience is dedicated to empowering women facing similar barriers. In 2020, she won the CEO Global continental award for the mining sector in Africa.
Dr. Sizakele Marutlulle
Sizakele boasts a robust career in marketing and leadership. She has held significant roles such as Chief Marketing Officer at Barclays Africa, CEO of Grey South Africa, and COO at SA Tourism. With a proven track record in establishing and leading various advertising agencies, she has transformed businesses at critical junctures.
As the founder and leader of a Pan-African brand advisory firm, Sizakele has over two decades of experience in business development, brand strategy, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Her work goes beyond marketing; she invests time mentoring and coaching aspiring female leaders.
Ntombenhle Khathwane
Ntombenhle ventured into business without a formal background in it. Stuck in a government job that lacked empowerment, she sought inspiration during a visit to her grandmother in Swaziland. Learning about her granny’s hair secrets ignited her passion for cultural preservation. Thus, AfroBotanics was born.
In 2012, she participated in the Goldman Sachs-GIBS 10,000 Women Programme and received a business management certificate. In 2014, she was accepted into the Archbishop Tutu-Oxford University Leadership Fellowship.
Despite many challenges, she persevered. A breakthrough with Game resulted in a decade-long partnership, allowing her to connect her products with a wider audience.
Charmagne Mazhindu
The dynamic Charmagne is an award-winning integrated marketing and brand specialist with over a decade of experience. Recently, she became the marketing strategy and operations director for Aleph, an ecosystem of global digital experts and solutions.
Charmagne's expertise spans multiple marketing disciplines, enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement. Her background in industries such as Automotive, Advertising, and Consulting has sharpened her ability to craft impactful strategies that benefit clients across Africa and Europe.
Sylvia Maseko
Sylvia Maseko serves as COO at Medical Events and Managing Director at Daisy Lee Events. She is the founder of the African Health Excellence Awards, a non-profit organization celebrating remarkable achievements in healthcare across the continent.
Raised in Boschfontein, a rural area in Mpumalanga, Sylvia's journey is inspiring. She is a seasoned event planner, dietitian, and influential brand figure. Her work includes managing medical and corporate events, earning recognition in her field. Nominated for the 2023 Founder of the Year awards in Africa, she holds an MBA and a Project Management certificate.
Veronica Motloutsi
Veronica is a leading figure in digital transformation. As founder and CEO of SmartDigital Solutions, she influences technological advancements in South Africa and beyond. Her pioneering initiatives help organizations and homes adapt to the digital age.
With over 25 years in ICT, she has made strides across various sectors, including Health and Mining. SmartDigital Solutions is a 100% Black female-owned firm, positioned to guide clients through the opportunities of the digital revolution.
Relebogile Mabotja
Relebogile is a dedicated talent in the South African entertainment industry. With nearly 20 years of experience, her skills span radio, acting, and production. As the founder of Lebotja Media and a director at Black Swan Media, her initiatives, like "Raising Babies 101," have garnered significant attention.
A strong advocate for women, Relebogile mentors young aspiring talents and challenges gender norms in her field. Her efforts have earned her multiple awards and significant recognition in the industry.
Mashudu Makwarela
Mashudu founded her agency in 2015. As a qualified chartered accountant, she aimed to provide personalized, tech-centric services. After working with KPMG, she gained valuable experience in the public and private sectors.
Her firm focuses on innovative solutions to improve compliance standards in South Africa. This hands-on approach provides tailored solutions for businesses, ensuring they navigate complex regulatory landscapes with ease.
Bojane Segooa
At just 35 years old, Bojane Segooa is one of seven Black female non-executive directors of a JSE listed company. She is committed to using technology to promote quality education across South Africa. Her company, Innovation Africa Holdings, developed Levelsapp, an educational platform that guides learners toward universities and career paths.
Bojane's innovative spirit has earned her numerous accolades, making her a notable figure in the start-up community.
Mimi Kalinda
Mimi Kalinda is the Group CEO and co-founder of Africa Communications Media Group (ACG), specializing in reputation management and communications. With 26 years of experience, she has built a successful reputation for her strategic vision and ability to drive growth.
Under her leadership, ACG has provided groundbreaking solutions across various sectors. Mimi is also a passionate writer and coach, contributing to many initiatives beyond her corporate responsibilities.
For more insights on trailblazing women, check out Ignited Woman Issue 36 here.
Each of these women showcases resilience and determination in their respective fields. They are powerful examples of how women can lead and inspire in business and beyond.
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