The North-West University recently hosted an empowering Women Conference across all three of its campuses. Women leaders holding positions from peromnes levels 2 to 6, as well as upcoming women leaders from peromnes levels 7 to 8, participated in the hybrid in person and virtual event.
The overarching theme of the conference was "Empowering women in leadership - building trust and authenticity while addressing GBV and sexual harassment". It aimed to provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences, aiming to foster a supportive environment for women in leadership while addressing prevalent challenges such as gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment in the workplace.
The conference kicked off with an insightful keynote address by Monica Brown, a diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) and GBV consultant. She discussed the importance of balancing empathy and authority in leadership roles, particularly with regard to GBV issues.
Furthermore, Prof Linda Du Plessis, acting deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning at the NWU, delivered an inspirational speech on the power of authentic leadership and the significance of building trust in today's organisations.
The women in attendance actively participated and shared their stories. A particularly moving moment was the testimonial by Blessing Mmutle, who bravely shared personal experiences and challenges faced in the workplace while addressing the crucial topic of creating safe workspaces and tackling GBV and sexual harassment. Gender activist Prof Vhumani Magezi also made a significant contribution to the discussions.
The highlight of the event was a panel discussion facilitated by social work lecturer and researcher Vedhna Lalla, with supporting facilitators and ambassadors per campus. Notable individuals engaged in candid discussions, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. They included Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, Prof Salaminah Moloko-Phiri from the Faculty of Health Sciences, Adv Simon Rasikhalela from the Faculty of Law, Dr Corrie Rheeder, director for student life on the Potchefstroom Campus, and Ujeet Maharaj, prosecutor and head of student discipline on the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
Prof Swanepoel emphasised the importance of women supporting one another, using the powerful slogan: "We rise by lifting others". She urged the audience to reflect on their roles in empowering fellow women, asking themselves the question: "How are you assisting the other ladies in your team, and what are you doing to empower them?". She called for active engagement in fostering a culture of mutual support and solidarity. She also reminded attendees of a simple but impactful principle: “Treat everybody how you would like to be treated”.
Prof Swanepoel’s message highlighted the need for compassion, unity, and collective action to combat GBV and sexual harassment while fostering leadership and trust among women at the NWU.
Ntsako Nkuna, senior specialist for learning and development in the People and Culture division and conference organiser said the conference was a big success.
"The conference featured insightful keynote speakers, engaging panel discussions, and interactive workshops focused on leadership development, career advancement, and fostering a more inclusive work environment. Events such as these create opportunities for women to excel in their careers and contribute to the overall success of their organisations.”
She added that the positive feedback from attendees highlighted the value of such events in driving progress and promoting gender equality in the workplace.
Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, emphasised the importance of women supporting one another.
Women leaders who attended the Women Conference in person on the Mahikeng Campus, listen attentively.
The women were in high spirits after the empowering conference.
Ntsako Nkuna, senior specialist for learning and development in the People and Culture division and conference organiser, addresses the audience on the Potchefstroom Campus.
Women leaders on the Potchefstroom Campus.
Sharing a photo moment
Joining in the festivities on the Vanderbijlpark Campus were from left are Prof Mala Singh, executive director of People and Culture, Prof Vhumani Magezi from the Faculty of Theology, Prof Linda du Plessis, acting deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, and prosecutor and Ujeet Maharaj, head of student discipline.
Women leaders from the Vanderbijlpark Campus listen attentively.
Various notable individuals engaged in candid discussions, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. Here are Prof Linda du Plessis and Ujeet Maharaj.
