Women with Drive 2025 delivered a high-impact day of inspiration, connection, and empowerment last week. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says it brought together industry leaders, changemakers, and trailblazers to share their journeys, insights, and practical wisdom.
Linda Cele, Product Head: Key Accounts and Partnerships at WesBank, shared her story of determination in banking during her signature address. Career success is not about racing to the destination but embracing the journey of leadership.
Central to Cele's message is the critical importance of mentorship in career development, both professionally and personally. Her leadership approach resonated strongly on attendees’ own paths to arrival.
Inspired by a close relationship with her father, Melanie van Straaten, Head of Castrol Southern Africa, delivered a keynote address on her life-long goal to join the Castrol team. Consequently, she tackled each obstacle encountered until she ‘arrived’ at Castrol.
Van Straaten's core message cantered on the power of authenticity. Her determination was unwavering, guided by a fundamental belief: ‘The only barrier that exists is the one you decide exists.’ Attendees were inspired to reconsider limitations they place on themselves.
The panel discussion on ‘Breaking glass ceilings in traditional industries’ emphasised that there is not just one ceiling to break. Career progression resembles a multiplex—once you break through one ceiling, another awaits. Expect ongoing challenges rather than a single breakthrough moment.
The panel addressed imposter syndrome directly, encouraging women to silence self-doubt and internal criticism. Strong emphasis was placed on women supporting women, creating networks that lifts everyone higher rather than competing with one another.
The new Fireside Chat left audiences profoundly moved. Marlize Havenga shared a video of a serious car crash she survived, which drives her commitment to ensuring no parent on her team will leave a child behind because of an accident. It demonstrates how personal trauma can contribute to purposeful leadership.
Tamsyn Gerrits, a top five Miss South Africa contestant and brand specialist, spoke about her experience of being diagnosed with cancer before 30. Sharing her experience on social media encouraged other women to seek early testing and treatment. Sharing her vulnerability helped save lives.
Niki Seberini concluded the formal program with an engaging session on breathwork, demonstrating how meaningful change happens through small, consistent steps. Firsthand breathwork exercises showed their tangible difference on wellness.
Women with Drive concluded with over R80 000 in prizes to celebrate a community learning and growing together. “Our gratitude goes to all speakers, attendees, and partners, that came together to recognise the arrival of women. We anticipate continuing this vital theme along with our celebratory milestone of the 10th event in 2026: Women with Drive – JIVE!” says Herbert.