After eight years of empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries, MasterDrive is proud to announce its 9th annual Women with Drive event. This year's theme, ‘Women with Drive – ARRIVE,’ recognises the journey of women who have reached the pinnacle of success in their respective fields.
The concept of ‘arrival’ goes beyond mere achievement—it represents the moment when years of hard work meet opportunity, when dreams transition into reality, and when women step confidently into their destined spaces. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “This year's theme celebrates women who have reached significant milestones and leadership positions.
“Speakers, panellists and attendees have overcome industry barriers and achieved notable career heights. ARRIVAL symbolises the culmination of years spent thriving, living authentically, striving toward goals, and feeling fully alive. It's about recognising when dedication and perseverance converge with opportunity,” says Herbert.
The exceptional speakers embody the spirit of arrival:
- Linda Cele, Product Head at Wesbank FML will give the signature address ‘Driving financial futures: women leading in banking & finance,’ demonstrating how women can break stereotypes in male-dominated environments.
- Melanie van Straaten, Head of Business for bp Castrol SA & SADC, will deliver the keynote address ‘Fuelling your arrival: from aspiration to achievement,’ drawing from her experience of entering and excelling in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The panel discussion, ‘Breaking through glass ceilings,’ will again be a highly anticipated part of Women with Drive. It brings together a dynamic group of women that shattered barriers in traditional industries. The panel will provide diverse perspectives on strategic career moves and overcoming challenges to ARRIVE at their destination of success.
- Mokebe Thulo, CEO at AWARE.Org
- Dr. Paulina Mamogobo, Chief Economist at naamsa
- Mpho Chokwe, Head: Motor Fleets at AIISA
- Joanne De Frietas, Marketing Manager at Dunlop Tyres SA
- Lebogang Letsoalo, Global Supply Chain Coach, Expert and CEO at Sincpoint
Introducing the ‘Fireside Chat’
New to Women with Drive 2025 is the Fireside Chat. This is an intimate ‘fireside’ conversation focusing on the resilience and unwavering determination to ARRIVE. It is a raw, authentic insight into the challenges faced by women in leadership and the mindset needed to persist through adversity.
MasterDrive welcomes two remarkable women to the chat:
- Marlize Havenga, Environmental Health & Safety HUB Lead (South Africa) at Corteva
- Tamsyn Gerrits, Digital Creator, Storyteller, Strategist, and Mom
The ever-popular lifestyle section will feature Niki Seberini, a certified breathwork and wellbeing practitioner. Seberini will focus on the mental and physical wellness aspects of achieving and maintaining success on your journey to arrival.
MasterDrive is proud to welcome Castrol and Wesbank as headline partners. “It is a privilege to partner with like-minded organisations that value the role played by women in the mobility sector and the importance of highlighting their arrival,” says Herbert.
Attendance
To ensure a diverse and engaging audience representing various aspects of the mobility sector, in-person attendance is by application only. This guarantees a rich mix of perspectives and experiences, enhancing networking opportunities and discussions.
Women with Drive is a popular event on our calendar and space is limited for this exclusive in-person event. We encourage you to submit your application promptly to secure your spot among the most influential women in the automotive and related industries.
