KZN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CHAMPIONS WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

By Bongi Shozi.

• MEC Shinga urged women leaders to reject divisive practices and instead foster a culture of unity, collaboration, and mutual support.
• ⁠The programme recognised women’s leadership and provided a forum to discuss ongoing barriers to gender equality.
• The gathering reinforced the Department’s mandate to empower women, strengthen institutions, and promote a culture of equality and social justice.

To commemorate Women’s Month, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development hosted a Women in Management programme in Durban, creating a platform for women leaders to celebrate achievements, confront challenges, and build lasting solidarity.
Anchored by this year’s Women’s Month theme, “Building Resilient Economies for All”, the programme featured thought-provoking talks and interactive discussions that celebrated women’s achievements while confronting the barriers that continue to hinder their full participation in leadership.
MEC for Social Development, Ms Mbali Shinga, emphasised the importance of women standing together in building stronger institutions and communities. “As women in management, we must set the example by working together to empower one another. Let us steer clear of the ‘pull her down’ mentality and instead cultivate a culture of solidarity and support,” she said.

She further highlighted the link between women’s empowerment and sustainable development: “When women are given the space to lead, economies grow stronger, families become more resilient, and our society moves forward. Women’s leadership is not just a celebration during August; it must be embedded in the way we work every single day.”

The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the Department’s commitment to strengthening platforms where women could share experiences, collaborate, and build networks that advance both personal growth and organisational success. It also underscored the department’s broader mandate of promoting gender equality, social justice and inclusion.

One of the delegates, Thobekile Honono, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the MEC for convening the programme. She shared her excitement about the opportunity to connect with and engage in meaningful conversations with women in management roles from a wide range of departments. “I truly couldn’t wait to mingle with these incredible women who have paved the way in their respective fields,” Honono remarked. As a young woman passionate about building her career, she found great inspiration in surrounding herself with accomplished individuals. “I really want to extend my thanks to the MEC for bringing us all together for this empowering gathering focused on women,” she added.

The Women in Management programme was not only a celebration of Women’s Month but also a reaffirmation of the Department of Social Development’s vision: empowering women to lead, inspire, and contribute to resilient economies and a more inclusive society. By fostering solidarity, the department continued to pave the way for women in leadership to thrive and for future generations to inherit a culture of equality and shared strength.