09 May 2024

The Forbes Under 30 panel discussion brought together an inspiring group of women who are breaking barriers and paving the way for gender equality across various industries.

Speakers at the discussion hosted in Tlokweng at Royal Aria included women like Judy Dlamini, Lindeka Dzedze, and Nicola Kagoro, who discussed challenges women face, the need for representation, and the importance of supporting one another.

The Moderator, also multimedia journalist and Under 30 curator, Chanel Retief drove the session titled how women are Excelling in Male Dominated Industries.

Judy Dlamini, who is the founder and executive chairperson at South Africa’s Mbekani Group, reflected on her journey as a woman in business, recalling the early days when she pursued a career in medicine amidst scepticism and gender bias.

She said this took her back to the 70s and 80s when she decided to be a medical doctor.

“The best thing to do as a woman to break the stereotypes is just being the best at what you do,” she said.

 She emphasised the importance of perseverance and excellence in overcoming stereotypes, encouraging women to assert themselves and excel in their chosen fields.

Lindeka Dzedze – CIB Head of Strategic Partnerships at Standard Bank Group, also from South Africa – highlighted the significance of being the first in the room and the responsibility that comes with it.

She stressed the need to bring more women to the table to strengthen diversity and create a supportive environment for future generations.

Nicola Kagoro, an award-winning Zimbabwean chef and founder of African Vegan on a Budget, shared her experience navigating the culinary industry as a vegan chef in Africa. She addressed misconceptions about veganism and emphasised the importance of educating others while honouring cultural heritage and traditions.

She pointed out that being a vegan chef was very hard, especially in Africa where there is a notion that meat equals wealth and when there is no meat in the plate it’s like one is not having the best diet.

She said as a young chef in a male dominated sphere she had to always be very intentional and deliberate.

She said she would love to see more women becoming head chefs not just pastry chefs. ENDS