Voices of Unisa’s female student leaders amplified at conference

Unisa’s Student Development Directorate and members of the Gauteng Regional Student Representative Council (RSRC) attended the 4^th annual Lead(her)ship Conference on August 31, 2024, at the University of the Witwatersrand, where aspiring female leaders were united to explore and embrace the theme “Empowered Voices: Women Leading with Authenticity”. Hosted by GIRLEADA, this empowering event featured inspiring talks, collaborative workshops, and networking opportunities designed to amplify the voices of women.

From left: Tshwane RSRC Treasurer, Lefentswe Happiness Kganyago, Johannesburg RSRC Secretary, Katlego Mokoena, Tshwane RSRC Deputy Secretary, Ntokozo Mathabathe, Tshwane RSRC Chairperson, Tania Molapo, Tshwane RSRC Sports and Cultural Officer, Tshegofatso Mmope, Tshwane RSRC Education and Training Officer, Amisha Rampersadh, and Tshwane RSRC Deputy Chairperson, Nompumelelo Gcaba

The Lead(her)ship Conference is a one-day program designed to equip female students in leadership roles across committees, residences, societies, and social clubs. Through this workshop, female leaders discovered how to lead with confidence and purpose. The event touched on several advantages such as empowering future leaders, benefiting from enhanced student engagement, and stronger support networks.

The conference featured esteemed elder women who shared their inspiring life stories and experiences. Their narratives showcased the resilience, strength, and wisdom gained through years of dedication and perseverance. As trailblazers for future generations, these women offered invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs they encountered in their personal and professional lives.

The keynote speaker, Gcimile Agnes Mbhele, shared the emphasised the importance of learning, unlearning and relearning across various fields. The conference addressed the unique challenges faced by female student leaders, encouraging authenticity and a willingness to acquire new skills to navigate these obstacles.

Ultimately, the event highlighted the necessity of challenging gender norms, empowering attendees to confront traditional roles that limit women in leadership, and sparking a renewed commitment to advocate for inclusivity.

Tshwane and Johannesburg female RSRC members with Mmangakane Mmako, Training, Research and Capacity Development Specialist (Acting), Student Development Directorate

Views from the floor

Katlego Mokoena (Johannesburg RSRC Secretary)

What I have learnt at the conference is the common challenges women face in leadership roles and strategies and how to overcome those challenges. I also had to participate in workshops and sessions that boost my confidence and self-efficacy as a leader. I had to connect with like-minded professionals, mentors, and potential collaborators, expanding my professional network and I also gained insights into essential leadership skills, such as strategic thinking, communication, and negotiation. I felt empowered to advocate for myself and others, driving change within the RSRC and beyond. The conference enhanced my leadership capabilities, and inspired and equipped me to make a meaningful impact in my professional, political and personal life.

Amisha Rampersadh (Tshwane RSRC Education and Training Officer)

One of the key takeaways from their stories was the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself. They emphasised that leadership is not just about holding a position of power but about making a positive impact and leading with integrity. Their experiences highlighted the significance of overcoming self-doubt, building confidence, and continuously striving for personal growth.

Tania Molapo (Tshwane RSRC Chairperson)

Be yourself, always. One of the biggest things we took from the conference is how important it is to lead with authenticity. When you embrace your true self, you inspire others to do the same, and that’s where real leadership starts.

Ntokozo Mathabathe: Mentorship matters. The value of mentorship really stood out. It is not just about receiving guidance but also about being a mentor to others. That cycle of support is so important for growing future leaders.

Nompumelelo Gcaba (Tshwane RSRC Deputy Chairperson)

Teamwork takes precedence over rivalry. A huge takeaway was the idea that women leaders thrive more when they collaborate instead of competing. The message was clear: support each other, and we all grow together.

Lefentswe Kganyago (Tshwane RSRC Treasurer)

Overcoming bias. We talked a lot about navigating bias in leadership. The speakers gave us some amazing strategies to stay confident and resilient in situations where we face discrimination or doubt.

Tshegofatso Mmope (Tshwane RSRC Sports and Cultural Officer)

Create space for others. One of the most powerful messages was that leadership is not just about your own success; it is about making room for others to succeed, too. If you are in a position of power, use it to lift others up.

The Lead(her)ship Conference was a powerful reminder of the potential within every woman to lead with authenticity and purpose. By sharing their stories and insights, the speakers inspired attendees to challenge gender norms and strive for inclusivity in all areas of leadership. As participants left the conference empowered and motivated, they carried with them a renewed commitment to advocate for change, support one another, and create spaces where all women can thrive. The journey towards equality in leadership continues, and events like Lead(her)ship play a vital role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

* By Nomusa Ngema, Intern Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement