Tag: Women in leadership

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Mashiko Setshedi, Head of the Department of Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, she is a leading gastroenterologist, educator, and researcher shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. From Aspiring Lawyer to Medical Leader Prof. Setshedi shares the unexpected path that led her into medicine. Initially intending to pursue a career in law, a medical school acceptance changed the course of her life. What followed was a deep passion for medicine and a career-defining moment when two influential female professors recognised her potential and encouraged her to pursue internal medicine. Exploring the “Second Brain”: The Fascinating World of Gastroenterology Prof. Setshedi explains why the gastrointestinal system is often referred to as the body's "second brain," emphasising its critical role in immunity, nutrition, disease prevention and overall wellbeing. She discusses groundbreaking advances in the field, including: Precision medicine tailored to individual patients. New treatments for inflammatory bowel disease. Minimally invasive procedures replacing traditional surgery. AI-assisted diagnostic technologies that improve accuracy and patient outcomes. Choosing Leadership Over Comfort Prof. Setshedi's reflects on the difficult decision to step away from some of her direct clinical and research ambitions to lead an entire department. While the move required sacrifice, it ultimately aligned with a deeper sense of purpose: creating lasting impact through education, staff development, culture-building and institutional transformation. Her experience illustrates that leadership often requires embracing opportunities before we feel fully ready for them. Rebuilding Culture Through Compassion and Collaboration Having inherited a high-performing department, Prof. Setshedi chose not to focus solely on technical excellence. Instead, she identified a deeper need: healing and reconnecting a community affected by years of disruption, including student protests, leadership losses, the COVID-19 pandemic and resource constraints. Her leadership philosophy centres on: Collaboration over hierarchy. Listening before directing. Creating environments where people feel valued and heard. Building cultures of belonging, trust and inclusion. She argues that when people feel supported and connected, excellence naturally follows. Transforming Medical Education for a New Generation Teaching remains one of Prof. Setshedi's greatest passions. She speaks candidly about the need to rethink how doctors are trained, moving away from outdated teaching methods based on intimidation and hierarchy. Her vision for medical education includes: Human-centred learning. Greater empathy and cultural competence. Stronger partnerships between doctors and patients. Curriculum reform that reflects African realities. Using AI to streamline learning and reduce information overload. She believes future healthcare professionals must not only be clinically competent but also deeply compassionate, understanding that medicine is fundamentally a profession of service. Women in Leadership: Progress and Persistent Challenges In our discussion on gender representation in medicine, Prof. Setshedi notes that women often equal or outnumber men at undergraduate level, yet remain underrepresented in senior leadership positions. She explores several contributing factors: Limited succession planning. Lack of sponsorship and advocacy. Structural barriers. Women's tendency to underestimate their own readiness for leadership roles. Importantly, she calls for intentional efforts to identify, support and develop future women leaders, emphasising that talent alone is not enough without opportunity and encouragement. Defining Success on Your Own Terms When asked about the keys to her success, Prof. Setshedi offers a powerful perspective: success must be personally defined. Rather than measuring achievement through external markers, she encourages individuals to ask: "Am I a better person today than I was yesterday?" For her, true success lies in continuous growth, meaningful contribution and service to others. She cautions against comparing oneself to others and instead advocates "running your own race" while remaining true to your values and purpose. A Message to Young Women Across Africa Closing the conversation, Prof. Setshedi delivers an uplifting message to girls and young women: Believe in your abilities. Do not allow self-doubt to define your future. Learn from the experiences of others. Embrace your individuality. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Seek support when needed and remain open to growth. Every woman possesses unique gifts and perspectives that the world needs. Success begins when we stop comparing ourselves to others and start believing in our own potential. Tune in for more…

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June 4, 2026

Professor Mashiko Setshedi – Head of Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Mashiko Setshedi, Head of the Department of Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, she is a leading gastroenterologist, ...

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Tracy-Lynn Field, who is a leading environmental law scholar and the Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship held by the University of the Witwatersrand, with over two decades of experience in climate, water, and environmental justice. She serves on several advisory boards, including the Presidential Climate Change Commission. Her work bridges research, policy, and advocacy, shaping more equitable and sustainable responses to the climate and biodiversity crises. Professor Field reflects on how her journey into environmental justice began in childhood, driven by a profound empathy for animals and a deep awareness of humanity’s interconnectedness with nature. From secretly writing letters to magazines as an 11-year-old about animal welfare to becoming one of South Africa’s foremost environmental legal scholars, she explains how activism, compassion, and a sense of responsibility shaped her life’s work. Understanding Earth Justice and Stewardship Professor Field unpacks the work of the Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship, a multidisciplinary initiative focused on climate law, water justice, energy transitions, mining, and environmental governance. She discusses how collaboration across disciplines, particularly between law, geography, engineering, and policy is essential in responding to today’s environmental crises. A major focus of the discussion centres on a groundbreaking five-year research project conducted in partnership with the South African Human Rights Commission, examining the progressive realisation of the constitutional right to water across South Africa. Water Justice, Accountability and the Hidden Reality of Water Access Professor Field highlights one of the realities behind water access in South Africa. While statistics often show that households have taps within close proximity, Professor Field explains that the real issue is whether water actually flows consistently from those taps. She highlights the lack of reliable data on water stoppages and interruptions, arguing that communities, especially women, continue to bear the burden when water systems fail. The discussion reveals how women are disproportionately affected by unreliable water access through increased caregiving responsibilities, physical labour, safety concerns, and emotional stress. The conversation also draws attention to smaller towns and municipalities that are frequently overlooked in national water debates, despite facing severe infrastructure and service delivery challenges. Climate Change Is Already Reshaping Law and Society Professor Field introduces the concept of “climate risk litigation,” arguing that climate litigation in Africa is already happening, but often in forms that global legal databases fail to recognise. Rather than focusing only on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, African climate litigation is increasingly emerging through cases linked to floods, droughts, wildfires, insurance disputes, and climate-related disasters. She shares fascinating insights into her research on wildfire litigation in South Africa, explaining how courts are already adapting legal principles to account for worsening climate risks and environmental instability. The interview highlights how climate change is no longer a future threat but a present reality already influencing governance, infrastructure, insurance systems, ecosystems, and community survival. The Interconnected Nature of Environmental Crises Throughout the discussion, Professor Field repeatedly emphasises the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social systems. She uses the example of rising global copper prices following climate-related disruptions at a mine in Indonesia to illustrate how climate events can trigger global economic ripple effects that impact infrastructure, development, energy transitions, and even theft and criminal activity. She illustrates a systems-thinking perspective on climate change, demonstrating how water, mining, energy, law, economics, biodiversity, and social justice cannot be addressed in isolation. Women, Leadership and Challenging Patriarchal Systems In a deeply honest and reflective segment, Professor Field speaks candidly about navigating patriarchal environments both personally and professionally. She discusses the importance of women trusting their instincts, supporting one another, and refusing to normalise aggressive or dismissive behaviour in professional spaces. She shares a particularly difficult experience involving gendered hostility within a professional project environment, explaining how she confronted the unacceptable behaviour and continued leading with integrity. Her example demonstrates reflection on mentorship, emotional intelligence, resilience, and the importance of women creating supportive ecosystems for future generations of female leaders. Opportunities for Women in Climate Justice and Green Innovation Professor Field expresses great optimism about the opportunities emerging for women and young people in climate adaptation, environmental entrepreneurship, and sustainability innovation. One especially inspiring story features a group of women from Sebokeng who designed machinery to recycle waste polystyrene into energy-saving “Wonder Bags” used for cooking. Their innovation not only reduces waste pollution but also dramatically lowers household gas usage, demonstrating how grassroots women-led innovation can drive both environmental and economic transformation. The discussion highlights how many climate adaptation roles already exist informally within communities and why recognising these as legitimate economic opportunities could transform livelihoods across Africa. South Africa’s Climate Change Act and the Future of Environmental Governance The interview also examines South Africa’s new Climate Change Act and its significance for policy, accountability, and long-term institutional change. Professor Field explains how the legislation establishes important planning obligations for adaptation and mitigation, while also embedding environmental dependency principles into law — recognising that economic systems ultimately depend on healthy ecosystems. She argues that the law represents a critical shift away from development models that prioritize economic growth at the expense of environmental sustainability. Lessons in Leadership, Purpose and Tenacity Towards the close of the conversation, Professor Field reflects on the personal experiences that shaped her success, including her decision to move beyond traditional academic work into environmental activism and advocacy. She emphasises the importance of relationships, mentorship, focused thinking, service, and purpose-driven leadership. She also shares how personal challenges, including her child’s severe health struggles, taught her resilience, tenacity, belief, not letting go and never walking away. “Women of Africa, You Are Divine” Ending on a deeply uplifting note, Professor Field shares inspiration drawn from Miriam Makeba and her song Amaliya, reminding women across Africa to recognize your divinity and to see yourself not just as an intellectual being, but as a spiritual being, an emotional being, an intellectual being. Her final message is both poetic and empowering: “Women of Africa, you are divine.” Tune in for more

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May 22, 2026

Professor Tracy-Lynn Field: Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship, University of Witwatersrand

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Tracy-Lynn Field, who is a leading environmental law scholar and the Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship held by the Univer...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Judge Colleen Collis, permanent judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court. Judge Collis takes us on a powerful journey through her life, from her early childhood in apartheid-era Boksburg to her ascent to the High Court bench, revealing how personal experiences of injustice ignited her pursuit of law and her passion for creating a more equal society. Judge Collis reflects on the formative influence of her activist parents and her community’s boycott campaign, “Save Boksburg”, that challenged racial segregation in her hometown by the black community withdrawing their spending power in Boksburg, ultimately resulting in black people having access to recreational amenities and other facilities. These and other experiences cultivated her determination to fight for fairness. She shares memorable moments from her judicial career, including landmark cases: ordering Julius Malema to apologise for hate speech; ruling against government in the “Deadly Air” case on environmental rights; and expanding recognition for cohabiting partners in loss-of-support claims with the Road Accident Fund. Each judgment underscores her commitment to advancing constitutional rights, gender equality, and social justice. Beyond the courtroom, Judge Collis discusses her leadership in the South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges (SAC-IAWJ), which champions mentorship, outreach programmes for vulnerable communities, and the professional growth of women in the judiciary. Judge Collis has been an active member of professional associations, including the Black Lawyers Association (BLA) and the Judicial Officers Association of South Africa (JOASA).  She speaks candidly about the importance of actively participating in professional organisations that you join and the benefits of networking, role modelling, and ensuring that more women are not only appointed to the bench but also supported to become leaders within the judiciary. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the delicate balance between professional responsibilities and caregiving roles, the progress made by women in law and society, and the pressing need for female leadership in South Africa judicial division. She offers thoughtful perspectives on this year’s Women’s Month theme of building resilient economies for women, urging policies that enable women’s meaningful participation in business and economic growth. Judge Collis closes with deeply personal reflections on the women who shaped her—her grandmother, mother, sister, and church community—and offers words of encouragement to girls and women across the country: speak up, raise your voice, and never remain silent in the face of injustice. Special thanks to Lusanda Ntuli the Deputy Director: Communications at the Office of the Chief Justice who makes our annual series showcasing female judges possible. Happy women’s month. Tune in for more…

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August 21, 2025

Judge Colleen Collis – Gauteng High Court – Speak Up

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Judge Colleen Collis, permanent judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court. Judge Collis takes us on a powerful journey through her life, from her early ...

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Parliamentarian Ms Sanny Ndhlovu, Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Financial Management of Parliament, Chairperson of the Select Committee on Finance, representing the African National Congress. Ms Ndhlovu shares insights from her extensive career in governance, financial oversight, and political leadership. Key Themes Discussed: • Journey into Politics: Ms Ndhlovu reflects on her personal and professional journey, from joining the ANC at just 17 years old to becoming a leader in financial oversight. Her career trajectory focussed on treasury roles spanning local, regional and national portfolios. She highlights the importance of perseverance and mentorship in navigating the political landscape. She maintains standing firm to your beliefs and being patient in pursuit of your ambitions. • Women in Leadership: Addressing the challenges women face in politics, especially when undermined by men. She discusses overcoming gender bias, the need for self-belief, and the importance of policy knowledge in strengthening women's roles in governance. Additionally, women need to support other women in office. • Fighting Corruption and Ensuring Accountability: Ms Ndhlovu emphasizes her commitment to financial transparency, detailing her role in uncovering corruption during her time in local government and the necessity of upholding ethical governance in her current work in Parliament. • Economic Empowerment and Gender Inclusion: She highlights key legislative efforts to support women’s financial inclusion, such as the Public Procurement Act, which prioritizes opportunities for women, youth, and people with disabilities. • Future Policy Priorities: She shares her vision for policies that further empower women, advocating for increased financial literacy, economic participation, and continued transformation in governance structures. • Stockvels and Community-Based Financial Literacy: Ms Ndhlovu passionately discusses the role of stockvels in fostering financial independence for women, emphasizing the importance of grassroots financial management and cooperative savings initiatives that show how money creates value, such as using it as capital to create a business. She demonstrates how these skills benefit individuals, families and communities and build trust in financial management and networks. • Advice for Young Women in Politics and Finance: Encouraging young women to pursue leadership roles, she underscores the value of education, self-belief, listening, focus, patience, respect, and strategic financial management as tools for success. In closing Ms Ndhlovu leaves listeners with a powerful message, that women must believe in themselves, understand financial management, and remain committed to ethical leadership. She stresses that mentorship, community engagement, and continuous learning are key to advancing gender equality in politics, finance and life. Tune in for more.

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February 20, 2025

Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Financial Management of Parliament, Chairperson of the Select Committee on Finance – MP: Ms Sanny Ndhlovu – Patience

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Parliamentarian Ms Sanny Ndhlovu, Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Financial Management of Parliament, Chairperson of the Select C...

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to by Ms. Carol Mokgadi Phiri, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure in the South African Parliament, representing the African National Congress. Ms. Phiri shares her insights into the transformative role of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in shaping South Africa’s future through job creation, durable infrastructure development, and innovative projects that benefit all citizens. This point was highlighted in President Ramaphosa’s speech at the opening of parliament, “In the next five years, working together, drawing on our collective capabilities, we will forge a new inclusive growth path for South Africa by pursuing a massive investment in infrastructure. Significant projects are underway around the country in areas such as transport, roads, water, energy and human settlements. We will massively increase the scale of investment in infrastructure through a more holistic and integrated approach, positioning Infrastructure South Africa as the central institution of coordination and planning.” Ms Phiri discusses the department's collaborative approach with various entities and other governmental departments, as well as initiatives aimed at creating awareness and exposing young learners to opportunities within the construction and infrastructure sectors. Special emphasis is placed on empowering women to excel in traditionally male-dominated industries by fostering support networks and creating spaces for women to succeed. On the latter point she remarks that women must support and assist other women in their respective industries. Ms. Phiri reflects on her political journey, from being appointed mayor of Musina at the young age of 26, to leading critical national committees. In this role she narrates the story of the premier leaving an important present for her – books on policies and rules for the job at hand – and whilst he supported her, he did not spoon feed her, she rose the responsibility of the position and took ownership and accountability for her role. She underscores the importance of leadership, discipline, decisiveness, and mentorship in navigating the challenges of politics. As a woman in leadership, she shares personal experiences of overcoming societal prejudices, standing up to disrespect as soon as it arises, and developing resilience to thrive in the face of adversity. Ms Phiri has an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of South Africans through infrastructure projects, her dedication to community upliftment, and her belief in going beyond limits to achieve personal and professional growth. Every time you make your target stretch further – we have no limits. Tune in for more.

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December 19, 2024

Parliamentarian & Chairperson Portfolio Committee: Public Works and Infrastructure – Ms Carol Mokgadi Phiri – Integration

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to by Ms. Carol Mokgadi Phiri, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure in the South African Parliament, represent...

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Lwanga Elizabeth Nanziri, Director of the Africa Centre for Development Finance at the Stellenbosch Business School, Stellenbosch University. Dr. Nanziri, a renowned economist, holds a doctorate from the School of Economics at the University of Cape Town and advanced degrees in Economic Policy and Planning from Makerere University in Uganda. Dr. Nanziri unpacks the critical role of development finance in addressing Africa’s socio-economic challenges. Unlike traditional finance, development finance focuses on funding high-risk, low-revenue projects—such as infrastructure (roads, hospitals, schools) , small businesses, and agribusiness. She explains how development finance complements government and private sector efforts by reducing investment risks in projects that are essential for improving the quality of life in African communities. One of the projects she was involved in at the World Bank was the Think Africa Partnership, which was established to ensure that Africa does not lag behind. We explore innovative financing models emerging across Africa, such as project finance frameworks that lower barriers to entry for initiatives with long lead times. Dr. Nanziri highlights the work of the Africa Centre for Development Finance, including capacity-building efforts to equip policy advisors and leaders with the tools to drive sustainable growth in the region. The conversation also focuses on women’s economic empowerment, a recurring theme in development finance. Dr. Nanziri emphasizes the economic consequences of unequal access to financial resources for women and offers insights into how tailored development finance initiatives can dismantle barriers, foster entrepreneurship, and promote gender equality. Dr. Nanziri shares some of her lived experiences and how her success has been guided by setting new targets, applying discipline to achieve these goals (no matter what), being humble and having a willingness to learn. Tune in for more.

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December 6, 2024

Dr Lwanga Elizabeth Nanziri – Director of the Africa Centre for Development Finance – Stellenbosch Business School

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Dr Lwanga Elizabeth Nanziri, Director of the Africa Centre for Development Finance at the Stellenbosch Business School, Stellenbosch University....

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Meagan Chauke-Adonis, who is a Member of Parliament representing the African National Congress (ANC). She serves on the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation; and Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies. Mrs. Chauke-Adonis shares her compelling journey into politics and activism, highlighting the transformative life experiences that shaped her purpose and drive to advocate for a more inclusive society. At just 23, Mrs. Chauke-Adonis was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which led to blindness. This life-changing event pushed her to reevaluate her purpose and ignited her passion for advocacy. She discusses how she channelled this challenge into an opportunity to create meaningful change, particularly for persons with disabilities and marginalized groups. Her focus is clear: dismantling barriers of discrimination and exclusion to build a future where equity and inclusion are the norm. Mrs. Chauke-Adonis shares her passion for technology and innovation, which propelled her into the entrepreneurial space. As a 2021 Global Young Innovator, she developed solutions to enhance accessibility, including applications that enable real-time document editing and interaction. Her ambition extends to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that transformative technologies are affordable and accessible, especially for women and persons with disabilities. As a member of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, Mrs. Chauke-Adonis explores the department’s mandate to enable South Africa’s digital transformation. She highlights how digital technologies can be leveraged to advance accessibility and inclusion, allowing persons with disabilities to live independently and empowering people with access to information and opportunities. Beyond her political and technological pursuits, Mrs. Chauke-Adonis advocates for greater representation of persons with disabilities in leadership roles. She aims to destigmatize disability, emphasizing that with an enabling environment, people with disabilities can thrive, lead, and contribute to national development. Her mentor’s powerful words resonate: “Disability is not about physical attributes; it’s about how society disables you from opportunities, your environment, and your rights.” She passionately asserts that disability is a human rights issue. From the 3rd of November to 3rd December (International Day of Persons with Disabilities), South Africa celebrates National Disability Rights Awareness Month. This is a period for people to be cognisant of lifting impediments and improving the quality of life of people with disabilities for a more equitable society. Tune in for more.

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November 29, 2024

Member of Parliament – Meagan Chauke-Adonis (ANC) – Empowered

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Meagan Chauke-Adonis, who is a Member of Parliament representing the African National Congress (ANC). She serves on the Portfolio Committee o...

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Julia Gillard, the 27th Prime Minister of Australia and the first woman to hold this office. Her groundbreaking tenure (2010–2013) paved the way for a deeper dialogue on women’s leadership, gender equality, and the role of education and politics in societal transformation. Currently, she serves as the inaugural Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, Chair of the Wellcome Trust, and Patron of CAMFED (Campaign for Female Education), among other significant roles. In this engaging episode, Ms Gillard shares her journey navigating the challenges of being a trailblazer in high-profile leadership. She reflects on the double-edged nature of her historic appointment, where her gender was both a novelty and a target. She candidly discusses the intensifying gendered attacks she faced, offering invaluable advice to aspiring women leaders on how to confront sexism and misogyny, build networks of allies, and remain focused on their vision for change. Drawing from her book, Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons, co-authored with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Ms Gillard delves into global patterns of gender bias in leadership and practical strategies for women to overcome these barriers. With insights from women leaders like Jacinda Ardern and Erna Solberg, the books shares lessons for women who are either in or are embarking their leadership journey. In 2012, Ms Gillard delivered a powerful speech on misogyny, Not Now, Not Ever… and reflecting on changes since then she highlights how some societal attitudes towards women leaders are evolving, particularly within traditional media, while acknowledging the persistent hostility on social media platforms. She underscores the importance of engaging men and boys in the gender equality movement, advocating for inclusivity to achieve lasting change. This episode also sheds light on Ms Gillard’s advocacy for education as a powerful tool for societal transformation. As Patron of CAMFED, she shares inspiring stories of how educating girls creates ripple effects that uplift entire communities. She emphasizes the critical role of law enforcement, community support structures, and sustained education in addressing gender-based violence and fostering equality. Through her work with the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, Ms Gillard is advancing research to accelerate progress toward gender equality in politics, business, and beyond. She shares practical advice for women in leadership, from preparing for inevitable gendered attacks to leveraging clarity of purpose and mentorship to stay the course. As an optimist, Ms Gillard firmly believes in the collective power of individuals to create a fairer, more inclusive world. Tune in to this inspiring episode to hear her vision for a gender-equal future and her unwavering commitment to empowering women through education, leadership, and action. Tune in for more…

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November 22, 2024

Former Prime Minister of Australia – Julia Gillard – Actioning Change

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Julia Gillard, the 27th Prime Minister of Australia and the first woman to hold this office. Her groundbreaking tenure (2010–2013) paved th...

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Samantha Graham-Maré. In a candid and inspiring conversation, Deputy Minister Graham-Maré shares highlights from her first four months in office, including launching the South African Renewable Energy Master Plan, which is a bold initiative that not only advances South Africa’s decarbonization strategy but also positions the country as a global leader in green hydrogen and renewable energy. As South Africa commits to net-zero emissions by 2050, the Deputy Minister discusses balancing the decommissioning of coal-fired power stations with the adoption of sustainable solutions like solar and wind energy, while ensuring job creation in a just and inclusive energy transition. With energy poverty affecting 600 million people across Africa, Graham-Maré emphasizes South Africa’s unique role as the continent’s voice in the G20, advocating for equitable energy access and empowering women who are disproportionately impacted. Reflecting on her journey from local councilor with the Democratic Alliance to national leader, Deputy Minister Graham-Maré shares insights into leadership, building relationships, and staying grounded in her responsibility to serve. She speaks passionately about uplifting girls in rural communities, enabling them to dream beyond the limitations of poverty, and championing a people-centered approach to governance. Deputy Minister Graham-Maré shares pivotal moments in her life journey, from persevering for 16 years to attain her LLB qualification, to overcoming breast cancer - twice, to raising her children, to achieving her political aspirations and more. She emphasises knowing and pursuing your purpose. Always put in 100% effort. Drawing inspiration from innovative leadership strategies, she highlights the importance of fostering ownership and collaboration to achieve sustainable and inclusive outcomes. Join us for a powerful episode that delves into energy reform, women’s empowerment, and leadership lessons that inspire meaningful change. Tune in to hear how Deputy Minister Samantha Graham-Maré is literally living her best life while shaping South Africa’s energy future and empowering communities.

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November 15, 2024

Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy Samantha Graham-Maré – Give 100%

This week on Womanity – Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Samantha Graham-Maré. In a candid and inspiring conversation, Deputy Minister Gr...

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Wendy Alexander who represents the Democratic Alliance party in parliament and serves on the Standing Committee of Finance, which overseas the National Treasury and statutory entities. In 2024 more than 60 countries held national elections, representing approximately 50% of the global population. Ms Alexander highlights the importance of citizens using their vote to shape the direction of the country. She encourages voters to consider their vote as a "loan" to political parties and to hold them to their promises—or shift allegiance if those promises go unfulfilled. There are tensions for politicians operating in a multi-party coalition government because of differences between party manifestos, but there are common driving forces, such as getting the economy to work and decreasing unemployment rates that ensure political parties work together to serve the best interests of the people. Ms Alexander shares her motivations for entering politics, driven by a desire to stop complaining about issues and rather be a force for change. Politics provides a meaningful platform to exert influence, to change or introduce new legislation that impacts on the trajectory of the country. We emphasize the need for more women to step into political roles and call for foundational programs that equip aspiring women leaders with the skills to influence South Africa’s political landscape. The conversation also explores her work in the Finance Committee, where she sheds light on the importance of sustainable government spending and debt management. She highlights the progress made in gender-responsive budgeting and the need for data-driven approaches to promote economic inclusivity for women. Thinking creatively helps to identify new solutions, such as blended finance or lower and flexible interest rates. We raise the issue of the need for institutional reform and challenging the status quo, acknowledging that sometimes what was once conventional is now redundant. Ms Alexander is an advocate for inclusivity and outside of her political work she serves on the board of the South African Guide Dog Association and has raised puppies to serve as guide dogs for the blind. Be the change you wish to see. Tune in for more.

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November 8, 2024

Wendy Alexander – Democratic Alliance Member of Parliament- Challenge Status Quos

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Wendy Alexander who represents the Democratic Alliance party in parliament and serves on the Standing Committee of Finance, which overseas the Nation...

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