As South Africa prepares to commemorate Women’s Day on Sunday, the official theme this year: “empowered women empower the nation” couldn’t be more relevant to the company says Nissan Africa human resources director, Kholo Kunene.
“Transformation does not happen by accident. It requires intention, courage and consistency. Over the years, we have worked resolutely to create an environment where women are not simply included, but are empowered to lead, influence and thrive. The result is stronger organisation and, ultimately, a better business.”
Last year was proof of this with the company being recognised by the Standard Bank Top Women’s Awards for its commitment to promoting gender equality.
“It’s takes so much more than simply opening the door to women to access the industry, we must create spaces where they can develop, grow and thrive. We have found that when women hold positions of influence, they provide new perspectives, introduce diverse ideas and help drive overall business success,” Kunene says. “We believe the industry will truly only benefit from more gender diversity.”
It’s something that Nissan South Africa General Manager Purchasing, Sian Potgieter, believes. She’s grateful to Nissan for helping her on her journey from clerk to general manager over two decades by giving her the exposure and the opportunities she’s seen women move into positions that were once traditionally the preserve of men, but she knows that much more must still be done:
“Women’s Day is a great moment though to reflect, she says. “It reminds us of the history of the inequality that women have faced, as well as celebrating the significant breakthroughs that we have made. History shows us the importance of perseverance, we have earned our place, and we should confidently take up that space.
“We have to keep prioritising the message of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace because there’s still a lot to do.”
Alta Deysel, General Manager Nissan East Africa, agrees: “Women contribute enormously to families, communities, businesses and economies in ways that are often unseen and undervalued.”
She’s grateful for the chances she has had with Nissan.
“I was exposed to strategic decision making and complex market challenges, I was given responsibilities to lead that stretched me beyond my comfort zone: exposure builds confidence and confidence breaks ceilings.”
The message is simple, says Deysel: “Respect is automatic when you prove your value,” she says. “Leadership is earned when you deliver.”
Women’s Day has a particular resonance for Tebogo Mocumi, legal department General Manager. It is vitally important for women, she says, to be heard and break the shackles of imposter syndrome, particularly in traditionally male-dominated industries.
For her this is the message that continues 70 years after the famous march on the Union Buildings.
“Go ahead, raise your voice, make your opinion heard,” she says. “Keep breaking boundaries, keep breaking stereotypes. Debunk any imposter syndrome. Your opinion matters.”
“We are proud of Alta, Sian and Tebogo,” says Kunene, “but what is even more exciting is that they are just the tip of the iceberg. They are role models for the young women, who come after as they can have a long, sustainable and rewarding career in the automotive world.
“But we dare not rest on our laurels, we have to keep pushing and fighting – and we do that by making every day women’s day, not just on August 9.”
