As South Africans and Africans, we cannot deny that women still face vast challenges when it come to equity goals, particularly regarding leadership roles. There are many battles faced on a daily basis, and the achievement of a just and impartial society is not something that will happen overnight. The key is for us to look at solutions and ways to progress, to create opportunities and move past challenges so that young women rise as leaders across various spheres of life.
Such leadership can take different forms. For example, it can start within communities and social groups through a commitment to positive change. It can occur in professional roles through ethical and transformational management. It includes inspiring others to be better and do better. Leading by example is an effective way to “walk the talk” and motivate others through your actions.
Succeeding as a leader requires young women to be motivated and harness the potential they possess. It also requires the support of society, the public sector and the private sector to ensure that there is a culture of collaboration aimed at creating a better future for young women and young people in general. Statistics show the benefits of women in leadership – a 2023 report by advisory firm KPMG revealed that organisations with higher female board representation are observed to exhibit improved financial performance, with a 21% higher likelihood of achieving above-average profitability. There is ample additional data corroborating the value offered by increased female leadership practices.
However, making this a reality requires a concerted effort to inspire and champion young women in leadership roles. Here are some of the ways to encourage young women to take the lead and to support their journeys.
Early Development and Supportive Environments
Ideally, at home is where young girls should first be taught that they can achieve anything with the right motivation and dedication. Parents, guardians and siblings should support children and instil a sense of confidence. In reality, though, not all kids come from a supportive home life. Therefore educators, including those involved in early childhood development, should ensure that teaching goes beyond a basic curriculum to inspire young girls and boys to have a vision for their future. As explained by Penn State Extension (an educational organisation dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities), being a leader is not an exact science, but teaching children the skills needed to be leaders is important to help prepare the next generation to take the lead and become responsible adults.
Building Self-Worth and Confidence in Young Women
As young girls grow and understand the world, it is imperative for them to build a sense of self-worth. This will help them weather storms and overcome challenges that arise as they go through life. Personal Development Coach Chelsea Da Gama emphasises the importance of channelling the power within: “Young women should always believe in themselves and trust that they are worthy of being in spaces that align with their growth and personal goals. Through self-belief and determination, barriers are broken and true change materialises.”
Empowering Young Women through Education and Skills Development
Young women with ambition to succeed need to place high value on improving themselves – in order to be a leader you need to take responsibility for your own growth. This can take the form of formal education, skills development and other means of career and professional growth. We live in a society that offers a wealth of options, and it is up to young people to find and pursue tools that support their development, be it going to university, embarking on an entrepreneurial path or another direction based on passion and abilities. For those with financial constraints, there are a multitude of free learning resources available, including ways to improve soft skills and practical life skills.
The Role of Mentorship and Funding in Leadership Development
Private and public sector can contribute valuable resources when it comes to education, skills development, internships, training workshops, industry-specific programmes and other ways to develop young women with leadership potential. By supporting young female leaders, we are investing in the future of the country as these young women will in turn mentor and inspire others. Initiatives such as the African Women Leadership Fund contribute to female progress and capacity building. The fund is an innovative impact investment fund that aims to accelerate the growth of women-owned and operated funds and companies across Africa. A primary objective of the fund is to raise investment and technical assistance capital that will be used to build a platform to identify, mentor, support and invest in female entrepreneurs at scale.
Governance, Equality, and the Need for Legislative Change
Priority needs to be placed on equality goals such as closing the gender pay gap and taking a zero-tolerance stance on criminal acts such as child abuse and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This calls for legislative change, proper implementation of the law and harsher penalties for those guilty of such crimes. Inclusion is key when developing policy change and bringing in a long overdue new era of gender equality.
Prioritising Health and Well-being for Young Women Leaders
A young woman’s future can be impacted by numerous factors related to physical and mental health. On one hand, public and private sector mechanisms can support the improved health and well-being of young people. On the other hand, young people need to be accountable when it comes to matters within their control, such as ensuring sexual health, the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, refraining from substance abuse and being aware of threats to mental health. This includes seeking help when struggling with any of the above, however, it requires young women to reach out and be committed to positive change.
True leadership comes with having the right mindset and determination to make a difference, despite the obstacles and difficulties that exist. Young women across the country and continent need to embrace the power that they hold when it comes to leading societal change. Women need to support each other in breaking barriers, challenging the norms and celebrate our unique contributions in the workplace. It is only with a unified approach that we can take down the divides between male and female to welcome a joint commitment to inspirational leadership that will take the continent forward.
