Women with Drive returned to the Festival of Motoring, for the third time, today. This year’s iteration, ‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ represented the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of business which is full of possibility for women in the industry.
The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says, this year Women with Drive shone a light on empowerment, upliftment and motivation. “The theme brings influential women leading the way within their organisations to the stage. They will share a perspective of taking the next step in one’s development, promoting diversity and uplifting other women.
“Each year we strive to introduce speakers that bring value to the lives of attendees. The same calibre of speakers and content will again enable the enrichment of minds and renewed motivation to reach one’s own career goals while helping others along the way.”
A Women with Drive mainstay, the panel discussion, addressed topics essential to achieving this. “The topic, ‘The Ecosystem of Sustainable Mobility: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering.’ assessed the future, challenges and opportunities, sustainability and empowerment within the automotive mobility sector, among other important topics,” says Herbert.
The panel discussion
- The panel was moderated by Florence Musundwa, the Director at SME Road Freight Summit and Awards
- Thuli Manyoha, Head of Niche Business Insurance at Santam, discussed how to manage the inherent risks in sustainable mobility.
- Liesl de Wet, Head of Accelerated Organisational Sustainability at Unitrans, addressed the importance of driving change for sustainable practices.
- Linda Cele, Product Head: Key Accounts and Partnership at Wesbank Fleet Management and Leasing, focused on issues necessary to consider when financing the future of sustainable automotive mobility.
Presentations
The speakers presented on various aspects of the dynamic market of automotive mobility:
- "Navigating Risks and Driving Growth: Zeda's Journey in the Sub-Saharan Car Rental Market" presented by Tumi Ramoganyaka, the CRO at Zeda Limited
- "Powering Women's Success: Castrol's Commitment to Diversity and Innovation" by Siyasanga Mbolekwa: Channel Sales Manager at bp
- “Three families, One Vision: Taking Veldskoen Global and Celebrating South African Craftmanship” by Driekie Zondagh, CEO of Veldskoen
- "Empowering Women Through Performance” by Maja Smith, Director of Customer Service Operations at Ford South Africa
The highly anticipated lifestyle presentation focused on a vital aspect in the well-rounded success of women on the path to success. “Kathy Heapy, a Body Stress Release practitioner, addressed ‘Fuelling Your Mind: Mental Wellness for Women in the Fast Lane.’
“It provided health information on stress management for women in high-pressure roles while highlighting the role of rest, and resilience. Looking after your mental wellness is a priority on the path to success,” says Herbert.
An important part of the event is to show support for an organisation that gives back to the community. “‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ featureed an organisation assisting vulnerable women. Tears Foundation assists those affected by gender-based violence and the role each of us can play.
“It was another exceptional Women with Drive event, contributing to attendees’ ambition to succeed. It showcased women's leadership, innovation, and resilience in the automotive and related industries while addressing issues like sustainability, collaboration, and personal well-being,” says Herbert.
