MasterDrive is proud to welcome four partners to the annual Women with Drive event. Each partner supports the initiative which focuses on empowerment and upliftment of women within the automotive and mobility sector.
It is a privilege to welcome Castrol, FNB, Messe Frankfurt and MUA as partners to ‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “The interest and support shown in Women with Drive is testament to the power of the event within the mobility and automotive sector which is often a male-dominated industry.
“Women with Drive started eight years ago and has grown significantly since, including moving to its new venue at the Festival of Motoring (FoM). MasterDrive embarked on this initiative to be a source of knowledge, inspiration and support for women as they grow and thrive within this sector. Welcome to our partners whom we anticipate growing to even greater heights with this year,” says Herbert.
The support of an organisation with the calibre that Castrol commands gives power to the goal of Women with Drive. The Channel Sales Manager at Castrol, Siyasanga Mbolekwa, says: “’Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ aligns with Castrol’s transformation goals. My personal experience is testament to this, starting as an executive assistant but quickly progressing to my current role when my interest to grow was recognised.
“Women with Drive is an opportunity to encourage women within this sector to drive their own success. I encourage women to put themselves out there and take the steering wheel in their own success. If you are fortunate to have a female leader by your side, take the hand they hold out to you,” says Mbolekwa.
MasterDrive welcomes FNB as a new headline partner to Women with Drive. Linda Cele, Product Head: Key Accounts and Partnerships, says: “A core value of FNB and WesBank is building shared prosperity. Women play a critical role in our economy, accounting for 47% of SMEs in South Africa. We pride ourselves in being part of an initiative that truly supports the growth of women.
“As women participate more and more in South Africa’s economy, it is important that the industry speaks to unique needs of women-led businesses. ‘Women in Drive – ALIVE!’ celebrates women making an impact in the automotive and mobility sector by promoting diversity, uplifting other women, and creating a space where women can engage collectively to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.”
Messe Frankfurt’s support of Women with Drive enabled the event to be held at the much-loved FoM. Judy Maharaj, Show Director of FoM, says: “Collaboration drives change in the automotive and mobility sector. Women with Drive creates a meaningful impact on women’s participation and development in this industry. FoM is about celebrating innovation and progress in this space, and the partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.
“Women bring unique perspectives and experiences essential to the growth and evolution of the industry. We are thrilled to be part of an initiative not only celebrating accomplishments of women in this sector but also creates pathways for future leaders. Together, we can make a lasting impact and inspire the next generation of women to drive the future of mobility,” says Maharaj.
Another headline partner joining the initiative is MUA Insurance Acceptances. Marike van Niekerk, Manager: Legal, Compliance, Marketing & Communications, says: “We’re excited to join Women with Drive, where the power and potential of women within the sector is celebrated. Empowerment is not just a goal but a journey driving the future forward. We are dedicated to uplifting women and creating pathways for growth and success. Empowered women aren't just driving change—they're steering the future. Together, let's fuel our passion, accelerate our ambitions, and break every barrier in our way.
“Women bring diversity and a unique perspectives to the industry. By supporting this initiative, MUA aims to inspire more women to take the wheel and navigate their own path to success. We're not just celebrating achievements—we're paving the way for future leaders and innovators who will continue to shape the mobility sector,” says Van Niekerk.
The importance of partnering with organisations that acknowledge the value of supporting empowerment of women within the mobility sector cannot be underestimated. The industry is ALIVE with potential, growth and opportunity and this year’s event seeks to showcase this,” says Herbert.
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Alternatively, watch 'Women with Drive - ALIVE!' on MasterDrive’s YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCEV36hOxiuifLbi6INT5xw)
