The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s College of Law and Management Studies hosted its Women Power Connect Business Breakfast under the theme ‘Breaking Barriers: Building Future Women in Business and Leadership’. The event brought together influential voices from academia, government, and industry to celebrate women’s achievements and explore strategies for greater inclusion in leadership and business.
The panel featured:
- Ms Yanga Mputa – Tax Ombud: Office of the Tax Ombud
- Ms Yvonne Chetty – Chief Financial Officer: Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources
- Ms Samantha Perry – Founder: SJ Perry PR and Co-founder: Women in Tech ZA Initiative
- Professor Betty Mubangizi – Chair: NRF Research Chair in Sustainable Local Rural Livelihoods
- Dr Michelle Hatch – Economist: School of Commerce, UKZN
The conversation was facilitated by Dr Suhayfa Bhamjee, Senior Lecturer in the School of Law.
Sharing her journey as South Africa’s first female Tax Ombud, Mputa reflected on the responsibility of being a trailblazer. She emphasised that it is not only about being first but also about ensuring the door remains open for others to follow.
Chetty highlighted that breaking into male-dominated industries is possible. She has held senior positions in fields such as Electricity, Mining and Petroleum sectors. However, she stressed the importance of excelling in one’s work and letting expertise speak for itself, particularly when others may be slow to listen.
On the topic of women in technology, Perry noted that technology is shaping the future and women cannot afford to be left behind. Networks like Women in Tech ZA exist to provide mentorship and opportunities for women to innovate.
From a research perspective, Mubangizi emphasised the importance of extending empowerment to rural and marginalised communities. She noted that breaking barriers is not only about the boardroom; sustainable livelihoods enable women to lead in business, in communities, and in society at large.
Hatch called for society to recognise the multifaceted roles women play and to foster socioeconomic balance that allows women to thrive.
A key highlight was the participation of learners from Velabahleke High School in Umlazi and Northlands Girls’ High School in Durban North, described as “future CEOs, CFOs, advocates, economists and scientists”. Attendees were encouraged to mentor and open doors for these young women, enabling them to step confidently into their futures.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College, Professor Ernest Khalema, paid tribute to trailblazing women who continue to redefine leadership. “This is a celebration of strength, resilience and the incredible contributions women make in business and leadership,” he said. “We are called to actively break barriers and create opportunities for women in leadership and business.”
Through heartfelt stories, expert perspectives, and conversations that inspire action, the Women Power Connect Business Breakfast was more than a celebration; it was a call to come together and create a leadership landscape where everyone has a place at the table.
Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photographs: Hesper Cele