Women Empowerment

Inspire Inclusion: Honouring Women and Building a Brighter Future on International Women’s Day Every year on March 8th, the world unites to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). This year 2024, the theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” carries a powerful message: we must actively work towards a world where women are not just present, but truly included, valued, and empowered.This isn’t just about celebrating individual achievements, although recognizing the incredible contributions of women across all fields is crucial. It’s about taking down the structural obstacles that still prevent women from achieving their full potential, such as gender-based violence, opportunities, and restricted access to healthcare and education.  Inspiring OthersThis entails withstanding discriminatory norms and promoting awareness of the significance of gender equality. The goal is to establish a society in which women’s inclusion is recognized and appreciated as a fundamental component of development and success, as well as a moral need. Inspiring WomenWomen’s empowerment is equally vital. This entails giving them access to mentoring, resources, and opportunities so they may realize their greatest potential. It’s about giving them the confidence, sense of acceptance, and conviction that they should have a place at the table in all areas of life. Advocate for changeIn the neighbourhood, at work, or online, speak out against discrimination and gender bias. Advocatefor groups that promote gender equality. Challenge stereotypesBe mindful of unconscious biases and actively challenge stereotypes that limit women’s opportunities. Promote positive and diverse representations of women in media and everyday life. Mentor and empowerIf you hold a leadership position, take an active role in mentoring and assisting women in developing their careers. Create opportunities for women to share their voices and expertise. Invest in girls’ educationEducation is the key to empowering their success. Encourage programs aimed at giving femalesaccess to high-quality education and enabling them to follow their aspirations.” Celebrate diverse storiesAcknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of women from many cultures, backgrounds, andspheres of life. We are all inspired by their stories.

By Sinazo Mkoko “Transforming into greatness is not about finding yourself, but more about creating and recreating yourself and knowing that failure should be our teacher and not our undertaker.” So said Nomazibulo Tshanga – Founder and Managing Director of Ziyana Business Consulting Training, who scooped a headline award as the Top Woman Entrepreneur of the Year at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards that took place last week, Thursday, November 10.  The Standard Bank Top Women annual awards honour outstanding leadership, inspiration, vision and innovation in organisations that play a role in advancing women to the forefront of the economy. The awards cover all the major economic sectors and recognise businesses from SMMEs all the way to the national level. The Top Woman Entrepreneur of the Year award celebrates female entrepreneurs who are renowned in their fields. The winner is seen as an inspiration to her fellow entrepreneurs – someone whose career is built on a foundation of excellence, ingenuity, and integrity. They demonstrate strong leadership skills, and an eye for innovation, and must live the spirit of gender empowerment as Nomazibulo has shown such attributes.  “I’ve learned that consistency is what transforms average into excellence. I have laboured and will continue to be of service,” she shared on her Instagram post. She added that everyone’s highest endeavour should aim to develop independent human beings who are able to impart purpose and direction to their lives. “The need for imagination (vision), a sense of truth (authenticity) and a feeling of responsibility (commitment). These three forces are the very essence of education,” she said.  Topco Media CEO Ralf Fletcher paid tribute to “the support of our partner, Standard Bank and sponsors” and said he was honoured to lead an organisation that prioritises female empowerment and celebrates those working toward the fifth UN Sustainable Development Goal, which is achieving gender equality by 2030.  View Article Original Post Here