In celebration of Women’s Month, the KwaZulu-Natal Treasury invited students, academics and alumni from UKZN’s School of Management, IT and Governance (SMIG) to a symposium on women in business.
The event brought together influential business representatives, members of the KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council, ministers including Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, Deputy Minister of Health and Ms Lydia Sindisiwe Chikunga, Minister of Transport, and thought leaders to explore the various opportunities available to women in business. Professor Halima Khunoethe, SMIG alumni, facilitated the event.
Professor Thea van der Westhuizen, Academic Leader: High Impact Community Engagement and Internationalisation in the SMIG, shared insights on how to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets to inspire future generations. She outlined UKZN’s extensive initiatives aimed at empowering female students and equipping them with skills and knowledge to excel in business. Highlighting the importance of entrepreneurial mindsets in today’s business landscape, she shared the University’s innovative approach that enables students to identify and seize opportunities, take calculated risks, and embrace innovative thinking.
The symposium offered a platform for students to network and exchange ideas with delegates. Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Human Resource Management student, Ms Nokwazi Makhathini remarked: ‘The networking sessions and interactive panel discussions offered valuable, inspiring insights. I am grateful to the School for exposing us to the world of work and the opportunities available to women in business.’
Closing the session, van der Westhuizen urged delegates to be fearless, seize opportunities, develop their businesses, and embrace education as a lifelong pursuit.
Words and photograph: Sibonginkosi Mabika