In commemoration of International Women’s Day, the North-West University (NWU) Business School, in collaboration with People and Culture: Learning and Development, hosted a vibrant symposium titled “Women in leadership”.

The event took place at the Potchefstroom Campus and celebrated International Women’s Day with the theme “Barriers and challenges faced by women in the quest for leadership positions”. This annual symposium serves as a platform to recognise the achievements of women and to highlight the ongoing need for gender equality across all spheres of life.

The event was organised by Prof Leon Jackson and his team from the NWU Business School, along with director for talent management and organisational Development at People and Culture, Helen Lekalakala and her team. Prof Jackson also presents an advanced short learning programme titled "Leadership for women", which aims to empower women in leadership roles across municipalities in South Africa.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning and champion for the NWU Women in Leadership Programme, opened the event. She highlighted the progress of the programme since its launch in 2023, which is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of the NWU’s female workforce.

Prof Du Plessis encouraged the women to practice resilience, have humility, play to their strengths and not their weaknesses, and to be of service to others. “Take risks, find mentors, do not compare yourselves to others, demonstrate strength with grace and kindness, offer support and not criticism and always take care of yourselves.”

Dr Kea Seshoka, director of the NWU’s Language Directorate facilitated the event, which featured a series of inspiring talks from prominent speakers who shared their personal experiences and insights on women’s empowerment, leadership and resilience.

The panellists for the event included Mulalo Nemataheni from the Commission for Gender Equality, Dr Rorisang Machailo from the NWU's School of Nursing, Dr Lesedi Nduna from the Department of Applied Management at Unisa, and Millysind Ruiters from the Department of Employment and Labour.

These speakers have made significant impact in their respective fields, and their stories resonated with the audience, highlighting the diverse paths women take toward success and the unique challenges they often encounter.

The symposium also featured a series of interactive discussions which motivated and inspired attendees to enhance their skills and develop strategies for both career advancement and personal growth.

Nomusa Dube, a senior IT project manager from The Courier Guy, discussed the barriers and challenges that women encounter in leadership roles within mining companies in Gauteng. Nomfundo Ndaba, a change practitioner for Gender Equality at SARS spoke about the various obstacles that women in leadership face, and explored potential solutions to overcome these challenges, with emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging in the workplace.

Prof Manitza Kotze, an associate professor of dogmatics and ethics at the NWU, addressed the concept of psychological safety and the religious backlash that can impact women in leadership positions. Lastly, People and Culture practitioner Innocentia Mphuthi reflected on the importance of psychological safety and mindfulness in professional settings.

The International Women’s Day celebration also provided a space for networking, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals and establish valuable relationships. This aspect emphasised the importance of solidarity and collaboration among women, which plays a crucial role in driving systemic change.

Helen Lekalakala delivered the concluding remarks and words of thanks, confirming the commitment of People and Culture and the NWU Business School to promoting initiatives that support diversity and inclusion within the university and beyond.

“By hosting events like this, we aim to inspire future generations of women to embrace their potential and advocate for equality,” she said, noting that the day is a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender parity and encourages meaningful change.

The NWU hosted a vibrant symposium in commemoration of International Women’s Day.