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Rezan Ibishukcu
Growth Director
Insider
Meet Rezan: A Visionary Leader Transforming Tech and Empowering the Next Generation
With nearly a decade of experience in the FMCG and Tech industries, Rezan is a trailblazer in transforming digital landscapes across Africa and the Middle East. As the Growth Director at Insider, a leading marketing technology company, she has driven significant growth, spearheaded industry-changing projects, and passionately advocated for diversity and inclusion. Born in Turkey and inspired by the transformative power of technology, Rezan has not only led initiatives that revolutionize businesses but has also contributed to over 100 social projects, empowering women and teaching coding to underprivileged communities.
Her leadership, both at Insider and previously at Procter & Gamble, challenges the status quo in male-dominated industries, paving the way for the next generation of women in tech. Rezan’s story is one of innovation, empowerment, and a relentless drive to create positive change.
Dive into Rezan’s journey and her inspiring thoughts in our exclusive Q&A:
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in digital & tech?
Ever noticed how call centers always use female voice assistants? That’s because a woman’s voice is not only powerful but also more pleasant to hear. 🙂 So, don’t be afraid to speak up. The tech world needs fresh perspectives, and yours is valuable.
What inspired you to pursue a career in digital/tech?
Growing up in Turkey, I saw how tech could transform lives. That pushed me to join a tech company where innovation can make lives easier.
Creating a positive impact is a core value not just for me, but also for my company, Insider.
Last year, we launched 100 social projects from teaching coding to assisting women from underprivileged areas to join the workforce.
What does breaking barriers and bias mean to you on Women’s Month?
Breaking barriers and bias is about flipping the script—ensuring identity and success are not mutually exclusive.
For me, it meant succeeding in a male-dominated industry. Now, it’s about going beyond that—paving the way for younger generations, so they can achieve even more than I did.
It’s about making sure the path is a little smoother for those who follow, so they can reach new heights without the same obstacles.
If you could be a superhero, who would you be? I’m a fan of Shuri from Black Panther—because who wouldn’t want to be a tech genius saving the world? She’s creative, smart, and a leader who uses tech for good. That’s exactly how I see the future of tech. What is one quote or mantra you live by and why? “Empower others, and you empower yourself.” This hits home for me because real leadership isn’t just about your own success; it’s about lifting others as you rise. Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Johanna Horz
Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy and Emerging Business
Wetility
Meet Johanna Horz: The Visionary Behind Wetility’s Strategy and Growth. Discover Her Journey and Insights on Achieving Sustainable Energy Solutions.
Johanna Horz serves as Wetility’s Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy and Emerging Business. In her role, she ensures strategic alignment across the company, leads strategic initiatives, and incubates new business opportunities. Johanna holds deep expertise in business growth strategy, intelligence and anti-corruption investigations and international development projects.
Prior to joining Wetility, Johanna worked at international risk and business intelligence firms, where she led complex anti-bribery and corruption (ABC) and anti-money laundering (AML) investigations focused on African business, infrastructure, and power sectors. From 2016 to 2018, Johanna was a key figure at a leading women’s empowerment NGO, where she managed a girls’ health and education project in Sierra Leone. Additionally, she served as an electoral observer during the 2017 presidential elections in Somaliland.
As a trailblazer in the energy sector, what do you believe are the most critical factors for achieving sustainable and inclusive energy solutions in our cities?
Bridging gender gaps and integrating diverse perspectives are crucial for an inclusive energy transition. Women often face higher energy poverty due to lower incomes and more single-parent households. For instance, in South Africa, female-headed households make up about 40% of the population and often struggle with solar adoption. At Wetility, we address this by innovating our credit screening process. Our advanced financing risk approach allows greater inclusion than typical asset-agnostic institutions, helping to improve access to clean energy.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the energy sector and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
The renewable energy sector is a crucial industry for the future that I encourage all young people to enter. My advice for young women entering this exciting space specifically, is to keep going and own your place. Energy impacts all our lives, yet whilst women make up 40% of the global renewable energy workforce, less than half hold senior roles. If someone can do it, then why not you. So be bold as an energy producer, policymaker, or leader. Have fun, be brave and shape a sustainable future for everyone.
What is one quote or mantra you live by and why?
One mantra that I try to live by is “decide and live”. We can often get stuck in paralysis of analysis, be deterred by setbacks or unable to have faith that overcoming the hurdles we see is possible. It is true as well that achieving Wetility’s vision of sustainable energy independence for everyone is indeed difficult. However, nothing ever changed without someone starting. So – wake up with determination, surround yourself with wonderful people, both professionally and personally, and go for it.
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
I grew up slightly unorthodoxly and was constantly moving cities and countries. This experience taught me the importance of deep personal connections and exposed me to many beautiful adventures, people, and experiences that the world has to offer. However, I also witnessed significant disparities, injustices and discrimination first hand, many of them gender-based. These experiences instilled in me a strong sense of justice, perseverance, and restlessness to ensure that women are heard, respected and never sidelined. This understanding drives much of what I do today.
“Decide and live, wake up with determination, surround yourself with wonderful people, both professionally and personally, and go for it.” – Johanna Horz
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Raksha Naidoo
CEO/ Chairperson- Women In Mining South Africa
The Particle Group
Empowering Growth and Leadership: Raksha Naidoo’s Journey from Analytical Expert to CEO of The Particle Group
Raksha is a BSc graduate and an executive level professional who has amassed almost two decades of experience in various analytical, production leadership and general management disciplines.
Raksha views teamwork, consultation and communication as the key pillars of all her successes. To this end, she is passionate about the transfer of knowledge to enable all members of her team to grow both personally and professionally. She has built harmonious relationships at all levels of the organisation to enable the achievement of common goals. This includes constructive relationships with organised labour, which has assisted in her growth as a leader.
One of Raksha’s biggest passions is people. Over the years that has come in different forms, always being the go-to friend, the listener and problem solver, mentor and leader, getting involved in various charity initiatives whenever possible, including founding a non-profit company called The Girlfriends Group, and even play match maker to friends looking for love.
When Raksha sees potential in someone, she invests hard in them. She wants to see them develop, grow and become the best version of themselves. This mentorship passion propelled Raksha to get involved with Women in Mining South Africa organisation, where she currently holds the position of WiMSA Chairperson. And Raksha holds the position of CEO of The Particle Group.
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Celeste Vogel
Managing Director
eWAKA Mobility Limited
Riding the Green Wave: Celeste Vogel and eWAKA Mobility’s Bold Vision for Sustainable Transport in Africa
Discover the inspiring journey of Celeste Vogel, a trailblazer in the world of sustainable transport.
As the visionary behind eWAKA Mobility, Celeste is redefining how Africa moves towards a greener future. Her story is one of passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to transforming the continent’s transport landscape. Dive into the narrative of a leader who is not only championing eco-friendly solutions but is also paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.
Read on to learn how Celeste Vogel is riding the green wave and making a lasting impact on Africa’s mobility.
Celeste Vogel is the co-founder of eWAKA Mobility Ltd, established in 2021 to provide Africa with sustainable and equitable transport solutions. With over two decades as in-house counsel in international finance and engineering, Celeste has contributed her expertise to SwissRe, ABB, and Credit Suisse. She holds a BA in Economics from Ohio Wesleyan University and a Juris Doctor from Northwestern University, and was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1994.
As the CEO of eWAKA Mobility, Celeste champions electric bicycles and motorbikes to enhance economic opportunities and improve livelihoods across Africa. Her work focuses on driving the transition to net zero in Africa with innovative business models for efficient last mile logistics. Recognized as one of the Most Influential Women in Mobility in 2024, Celeste, along with her innovative team, is dedicated to driving sustainable growth and providing access to essential services through e-mobility solutions
“With women and youth making up over 50% of the African population, I am eager to collaborate in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities for these groups.” – Celeste Vogel
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Sizeka Dtantyi
Managing Director
Linchpin Environmental Sustainability Solutions (Pty) Ltd
Meet the Changemaker: Sizeka Dtantyi, Pioneering Resource Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability Across South Africa
Discover how this eco-warrior is driving impactful change—read her inspiring journey and insights in our exclusive Q&A.
Sizeka is a Resource Efficiency Practitioner who has strong interests and is passionate about environmental sustainability. She has experience in implementing sustainable business practices and carbon foot printing. She has seven years’ experience in implementing environmental sustainability projects in various sectors across South Africa. She has conducted Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production and Life Cycle Management Assessments, waste, water, and energy audits in the FMCG-, Clothing and Textile, Foundry, Tannery and Leather -, and Hospitality and Tourism sectors. She has worked on South Africa’s baseline development for Eco-Industrial Parks and reviewed theG HG emissions performance guidelines prepared for DEFF in collaboration with GIZ. She is experienced in developing Resource Efficiency and carbon footprint tools. Sizeka holdsa Bachelor of Technology Degree in Chemical Engineering, and further trainings in environmental sustainability and energy management.
As a trailblazer in the energy sector, what do you believe are the most critical factors for achieving sustainable and inclusive energy solutions in our cities?
Building or improving enabling infrastructure to facilitate energy access to all cities; Addressing all physical infostructure-related issues on-grid and off-grid to ensure that sufficient energy is distributed to everyone.
Including local communities in the decision-making process is important to understand better the critical needs and challenges communities face in transitioning to sustainable energy solutions.
Set-up and operational costs of renewable energy solutions can be higher than what low-income consumers can afford.
Invest in local energy, and foster business opportunities between local municipalities and independent energy producers to eradicate energy poverty.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the energy sector and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
Always focus on what motivated you to be in the space. When the pressure builds up, the imposter syndrome pops up, and the tough times arise. Always look within and remember your “WHY” that will always keep you going in life. Remember some programmes support women to succeed, always seek those and make sure you are part of a community that aligns with your goals and career vision.
What does breaking barriers and bias mean to you?
Doing what you love, are passionate about, believe in, and vowed to provide without conforming to negativity and compromising your values and principles. Always rising above challenges, and delivering your best work even when the odds are against you, without ever compromising your integrity.
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
I grew up in a household where putting food on the table was the end goal. This motivated me to be resilient and fostered independence and a go-getter mindset. With an understanding that only I have the power to change my situation nobody else not even my parents are obligated to save me in life.
“The suffering you have endured does not compare to the glory that will be revealed in you”- Romans 8:18
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Vuyiswa Ndzakana
Executive Chairman
Ms3 Property & Investments (Pty)Ltd
Power Moves and Big Dreams: Catching Up with the Incredible Vuyiswa Ndzakana,
Executive Chairman at Ms3 Property & Investments
Which programmes for women did you find worth your while to interact with in the last year?
When I tried every effort to be part of the value chain of Energy with no success , I decided to create own of property development with green building architecture
What challenges do you face in the workplace?
Somehow it feels like trust issues, where some Clients don’t seem to really trust that women can deliver the same best product and quality like their male counterparts
What does breaking barriers and bias mean to you?
It means breaking stereotypes about gender, women specifically like women are always doing small things, need more training or skills than others.
How do you overcome the challenges that you face with regards your position, a powerful woman in a male dominated environment?
Self-Motivation, empathising about the situation and equipping oneself with right knowledge and skills to do even more and be resilient.
Who is your role model?
My mom-88 years old
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
Thought me that rejection has its positives depending on how you receive it and do about it there after
Best advice you received and who was it from?
No matter how good and best you could do, there will always be someone seeing differently and it was from my mom
What would you say to a 13-year-old YOU?
Don’t sweat the small stuff . Teenage life span is very short, enjoy every minute of it. Make memorable things.
“Do my best, make an impact and carry others with if they won’t break my back” – Vuyiswa Ndzakana
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Prisca Mayumbelo
Chairperson
CILT Namibia – The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
On the Move with Prisca Mayumbelo: A Catch-Up with CILT Namibia’s Dynamic Chairperson
With over 15 years of experience in the transport and logistics sector, Prisca Mayumbelo brings a wealth of expertise in logistics and supply chain management, transport operations management, urban transport planning, fleet management, road safety, public transport, law enforcement, and regulation.
“I believe in promoting gender diversity and advocating for women in the mobility sector, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable industry.” Prisca Mayumbelo
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Dr Gamuchirai
Founder
Madam Waste Urban and Energy Planners
Transforming Waste into Opportunity: Dr. Gamuchirai Mutezo’s Circular Economy Vision for Urban Energy
Dr Gamuchirai Mutezo is the founder of Madam Waste, an urban energy planning firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Services offered span across urban energy planning, organic waste management and decentralised clean energy using anaerobic digestion.
Using principles of circular economy, Madam Waste endeavours to constantly view waste not in its traditional sense of a disposable material, but as a resource for other activities. She is also a Post Doctoral Fellow at the Centre for Ecological Intelligence (University of Johannesburg) focusing on agro-ecological waste management and circular economy.
Dr Mutezo has over 14 years’ work experience underpinned by entrepreneurship, renewable energy, applied research and development, all with a keen focus on decentralising energy access in African cities using anaerobic digestion.
She holds a B. Town and Regional Planning (University of Pretoria), an MPhil Energy Poverty and Development (University of Cape Town), Project Management Certificate (University of South Africa) and a DPhil in Urban Biogas and Circular Economy (University of the Witwatersrand).
Dr Mutezo is a member of the African Circular Business Alliance (ACBA), African Circular Economy Network (ACEN) – South Africa and South African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA). She enjoys travelling, reading and worldly conversations.
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Lavina Ramkissoon
Chairperson, Advisor, Conscious Creator
aiMOM | Influential Figure | Full Stack Human | Dedicated Visionary
Lavina (Ramkissoon) Rao is a prominent figure in the advancement of responsible AI, dedicated to harnessing technology for good and unlocking Africa’s potential. Recognised as a Top 10 Leader advancing AI globally. A true “full-stack human,” Lavina combines her expertise in psychology, technology, and economics to bring a unique and insightful perspective to AI development. Her dedication and achievements are evident in her numerous accolades. A true futurist who’s vision is to accelerate the world’s augmentation of data by creating a more intelligent tomorrow through the footprints of collective humane knowledge. She’s not just a leader; she’s an inspiration, earning the title “#aiMOM” for fostering responsible development for a better tomorrow.
Discover the Future of Technology: Explore Lavina Ramkissoon’s Insightful Q&A on Visionary Leadership in Responsible AI and Africa’s Digital Transformation.
As a trailblazer in the digital & tech sector, what do you believe are the most critical factors for achieving sustainable and inclusive digital solutions in our cities & Africa?
For truly sustainability transformative and inclusive digital solutions in Africa, we hinge onto building bridges over the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to technology, support grassroots innovation, and tailor solutions to local needs and contexts.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the digital & tech space and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
“Stay curious, for it is the spark of inquiry that ignites the flames of innovation and discovery.” #aiMOM
“Pain and hurt are not just trials to endure but signals that demand change, urging us to evolve and transform into a more resilient and enlightened version of ourselves.”#aiMOM
If you could swap jobs with any fictional character who is known for their adventurous travels, who would it be, and how would you use your digital expertise in their world?
I would love sooo many, however if pressed I’d choose James Bond for a day. I’d use my digital skills to upgrade MI6 with cutting-edge encryption, design a smart gadget suite with AI-powered
Catching Up with the Phenomenal Kerry Clark: Founder & CEO at Fusion22 Digital Shares Her Journey, Challenges, and Empowering Advice for Women in Tech
From her inspiring beginnings to founding her own digital firm, Kerry Clark shares who inspired her career, her challenges in a male-dominated industry, and her advice for aspiring women in tech. Learn her key strategies for success, and find out why Catwoman is her superhero alter ego. Dive into her story and be motivated by her resilience, vision, and commitment to making a difference. Read on for a dose of empowerment and practical tips for navigating the tech world!
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the digital & tech space and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
Navigating the tech world can be challenging for young women, but a few key strategies can help. Continuously upgrade your skills and stay current with technological trends using free or low-cost resources. Build a strong professional network with allies and mentors for support and guidance, starting by connecting with inspiring individuals on LinkedIn or other social media. Cultivate resilience and assertiveness to challenge the status quo, knowing your worth and owning it. Seek visible projects and leadership roles to showcase your capabilities and inspire other women in tech. Remember, applying is essential—rejection is just part of the process, and the right opportunity will come.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the digital/tech industry?
My journey began as a fresh-faced graduate at Mr Price in the buying department. I took a leap of faith, leaving a stable corporate job to join an e-commerce start-up in Cape Town during the early days of Kalahari and Groupon. Every day brought new challenges and learning opportunities, sparking my passion for the dynamic world of e-commerce and technology. Curiosity drove me to explore the backend of websites, dabbling in coding and everything retail and tech-related. This deepened my love for technology’s potential to transform everyday lives. Armed with corporate experience and big dreams, I eventually founded my own digital firm. Now, I relish the joy of using technology to make a real difference in people’s lives, running my own business and helping others.
Here’s to taking risks, chasing dreams, and making an impact as a woman in tech!
What challenges do you face in the workplace?
Navigating a male-dominated corporate field was challenging for me. I had to adopt traditionally male communication styles to succeed as one of the few women in higher-ranking positions. This skill was crucial to my advancement. While I worked with many supportive men who became great mentors, I also encountered those who undervalued women’s perspectives and doubted our expertise. This led to self-doubt and near burnout as I constantly tried to prove myself. The fast-paced nature of tech adds to the pressure, but focusing on key trends rather than trying to know everything helps maintain expertise. I remind myself that everyone has unique knowledge to offer, and that’s okay.
If you could be a superhero, who would you be?
Catwoman
If I could be any superhero, it’d be Catwoman. She’s the epitome of not giving a “whisker” about the odds stacked against her. Whether she’s swinging through the alleys of Gotham or taking on the big dogs, she does it with a style and flair and to top it off she does it in a tight non-forgiving black jump suit.
Catwoman embodies that bold spirit of tackling challenges head-on, all while rocking a killer outfit.
She’s not just about the stealth and the heists; she’s a symbol of standing up for the underdogs.
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
My upbringing was profoundly influenced by my mother, who instilled in me a strong work ethic, humility, and respect for others. These values have shaped my sense of justice and commitment to treating everyone with dignity, regardless of their status. This foundation has guided my personal interactions and leadership style, emphasizing inclusivity and fairness in business. Both my parents taught me the importance of starting from the bottom and passionately committing to my goals, motivating me to persevere through challenges and strive for excellence without compromising my values.
“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!” – Richard Branson
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
