In celebration of Women’s Month, some of South Africa’s most inspiring businesswomen have offered advice to young female professionals eager to succeed in the business world.
These women, trailblazers across various industries, shared practical tips to empower the next generation of women leaders to thrive.
CAREER ADVICE FROM BUSINESSWOMEN
Rozanne McKenzie, a popular Jacaranda FM media personality, urges young women to find and trust their voices.
“If you have something valuable to say, don’t hold back,” she advises.
“When I started, I often went with the flow because I doubted myself. But speaking up can shift perspectives and influence outcomes. Your words might matter more than you realise.”
CAROL OFORI ON BUILDING A SAFE ZONE
Carol Ofori, an award-winning radio host and author in South Africa, stresses the importance of building a “safe zone”.
“Surround yourself with people who genuinely want to see you grow, who share wisdom without feeling threatened,” she explains.
“Having a network where you can be open about your insecurities helps you move forward with confidence.”
BUSINESSWOMEN AND THE VALUE OF BALANCE
Faziela Saheb, Sales Manager at Air France-KLM, highlights the value of balance.
“Be intentional with your time,” she says. “Work will always be there, but your health and relationships sustain you.
Protecting your ‘me time’ with the same seriousness as meetings ensures long-term success.” Saheb adds that boundaries are not signs of weakness, but tools for strength in South Africa.
HONESTY, KINDNESS, AND LEADERSHIP
Mandy Davis, Co-Managing Director at Penquin, believes leadership requires honesty and kindness.
“Have difficult conversations early and clearly,” she urges. “Be firm when necessary, but admit mistakes gracefully. Kindness combined with clarity builds strong leaders.”
TV personality and entrepreneur Roxy Burger champions resilience over talent, according to Good Things Guy.
“Success favours those who get up after every fall. Hard work beats talent every time,” she says. “If you have both, you’re unstoppable.”
CELEBRATING BUSINESSWOMEN
This Women’s Month, these successful women demonstrate that courage, support, balance, kindness, and grit are key to carving out your path.
As Burger sums it up, “Never give up—the journey is worth every step.”
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN STARTING THEIR CAREER JOURNEY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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