At WomenIN, we believe in the power of connection—how one conversation, one opportunity, or one woman showing up for another can shape the future.
This same spirit lies at the heart of youth entrepreneurship. Across the continent and beyond, young people are daring to create, disrupt, and lead. But behind so many of these bright ideas and bold ventures are women—mentors, leaders, funders, and supporters—who are quietly (and sometimes loudly) cheering them on, opening doors, and saying, “You’ve got this.”
And that changes everything.
Youth entrepreneurship is not just a trend—it’s a movement.
Today’s young people are more purpose-driven than ever. They’re building apps to improve education in rural communities, launching eco-conscious fashion brands, and designing tech solutions that solve real social challenges. They’re not waiting for permission. They’re building the world they want to live in.
But even the boldest ideas need support. For many youth entrepreneurs, especially those navigating under-resourced environments, the journey can feel isolating. That’s where women come in—not as saviours, but as partners in possibility.
Women as mentors: showing what’s possible by being present
There’s something powerful about hearing, “I’ve been there too.” Women who have walked the path of building businesses, navigating failure, and growing through it all, are now reaching back to guide the next generation. These mentorships aren’t always formal—they often begin as a coffee chat or a DM reply—but the impact is lasting.
It’s the kind of support that says: “You’re not alone. Keep going.”
Women-led platforms and programmes are creating the space for youth to thrive
We’re seeing more and more women establishing spaces where young entrepreneurs can learn, collaborate, and grow. From incubators led by women in tech, to community programmes run by women in rural areas, there’s a rising wave of women building the very structures young people need to succeed.
They’re creating rooms where young entrepreneurs don’t just have a seat at the table—they feel like they belong there.
Women investing in youth is investing in the future
Let’s talk about the money. More women are stepping into investment spaces and asking: Who’s missing from the funding conversation? Often, it’s youth-led ventures—especially those outside traditional networks. Women investors are changing that by backing bold, mission-driven young founders and challenging the status quo of who gets funded.
They’re not just looking at the pitch deck—they’re seeing the person behind it.
This is how we build legacy—together
The support women offer today is shaping the leaders of tomorrow. And it’s not always about grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s simply amplifying a young person’s work on LinkedIn, introducing them to someone in your network, or giving honest feedback when they need it most.
At WomenIN, we see these acts of support happening every day across our community. And we’re reminded that when women rise, they lift others too.
Because when a young entrepreneur believes in her idea, and a woman believes in her, the possibilities are limitless.
Collaborative Growth, Empowering Women, Female Leaders, Gender Equality, Leadership, Uncategorized, Women Empowerment
Building a united Africa: A call for gender-inclusive leadership
Posted on by Nasi Hako
28
May
May
by Nasi Hako
“I dream of the realisation of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent.” – Nelson Mandela.
It has been said many times (and rightly so) that Africa’s problems could be better addressed, if not solved, through unity and cooperation among its nations. This past Sunday, 25 May 2025, marked 62 years since the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), created to embody this very sentiment.
Now commemorated as Africa Day, the occasion serves not only to celebrate how far the continent has come despite a history marked by colonisation, war, and internal rivalries, but also to reinforce the imperative of unity among Africa’s 54 countries.
While Africa continues to make strides toward realising its full potential, challenges such as ideological divisions, language barriers, ongoing conflicts and stark inequality persistently hinder progress toward genuine solidarity.
I often wonder: would Tata Mandela’s dream of a united Africa be more achievable if we prioritised the upliftment of women?
“I dream of the realisation of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent.” – Nelson Mandela.
It has been said many times (and rightly so) that Africa’s problems could be better addressed, if not solved, through unity and cooperation among its nations. This past Sunday, 25 May 2025, marked 62 years since the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), created to embody this very sentiment.
Now commemorated as Africa Day, the occasion serves not only to celebrate how far the continent has come despite a history marked by colonisation, war, and internal rivalries, but also to reinforce the imperative of unity among Africa’s 54 countries.
While Africa continues to make strides toward realising its full potential, challenges such as ideological divisions, language barriers, ongoing conflicts and stark inequality persistently hinder progress toward genuine solidarity.
I often wonder: would Tata Mandela’s dream of a united Africa be more achievable if we prioritised the upliftment of women?
Read more
Women’s History Month: Let’s make history, together!
Women: The catalyst for unity in Africa we’ve been looking for?
While unity may be driven by diplomacy, policy and cooperation, it is also deeply rooted in inclusivity. Therefore, a prosperous and integrated Africa cannot be built without empowering those who have long been marginalised.
African women have been sidelined for centuries, but what if the solutions to some of Africa’s greatest challenges lie within the very women who have too often been left behind?
To forge a more united continent, Africa needs empathetic, inclusive leadership. Interestingly, research shows these are qualities often demonstrated by women leaders. Women are known to lead with emotional intelligence, creating spaces that foster trust, dialogue, and collaboration.
Their leadership style often places focus on inclusivity and shared purpose, qualities that are essential for building cohesion. Studies also show that women excel in conflict resolution and bridge-building, helping to connect fragmented communities and agendas.
Yet, despite progress in recent years, gender inequality remains pervasive, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where gender inequality is the highest in the world. While women are legally permitted to hold power in Africa and many have, the barriers to access and support remain high. If it is true that unity is the goal, then this is the gap we must address.
African women have been sidelined for centuries, but what if the solutions to some of Africa’s greatest challenges lie within the very women who have too often been left behind?
To forge a more united continent, Africa needs empathetic, inclusive leadership. Interestingly, research shows these are qualities often demonstrated by women leaders. Women are known to lead with emotional intelligence, creating spaces that foster trust, dialogue, and collaboration.
Their leadership style often places focus on inclusivity and shared purpose, qualities that are essential for building cohesion. Studies also show that women excel in conflict resolution and bridge-building, helping to connect fragmented communities and agendas.
Yet, despite progress in recent years, gender inequality remains pervasive, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where gender inequality is the highest in the world. While women are legally permitted to hold power in Africa and many have, the barriers to access and support remain high. If it is true that unity is the goal, then this is the gap we must address.
Read more
Why Women Must Collaborate: Because Together, We Are Unstoppable!
Women making waves in Africa
Advocacy for Women, Empowering Women, Gender Equality, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, Uncategorized
Why Women Must Collaborate: Because Together, We Are Unstoppable!
Posted on by Nazlee Fredericks
16
Apr
Apr
In today’s world, collaboration isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a power move. For women especially, collaboration is the secret ingredient to breaking barriers, building empires, and shaping legacies that last.
For far too long, women were taught to compete for limited space at the table. We were told there’s only room for a few — that success is a solo journey, that scarcity is the rule. But here’s the truth: we were never meant to rise alone.
When Women Unite, Magic Happens.
The moment women choose collaboration over competition, the game changes. Walls come down. Voices grow louder. Opportunities multiply.
When we come together — across industries, cultures, backgrounds — we don’t just survive the system, we transform it. We build communities where doors are opened, where wins are shared, and where possibilities are limitless.
Shared Wisdom = Accelerated Growth
Every woman holds knowledge the world needs. Collaboration creates spaces where we can swap stories, share hard-won lessons, and pass on the playbook for success. When one woman grows, we all grow. When one woman wins, we all win.
Collaboration Creates Impact That Outlives Us
This isn’t about short-term success. It’s about rewriting the rules for the next generation of fierce, fearless women. When we collaborate, we lay the foundation for something bigger than ourselves — a legacy built on collective strength and shared purpose.
Smashing Silos, Building Bridges
Real change doesn’t happen in isolation. Collaboration helps women break through the silos that hold us back — in business, leadership, innovation, and beyond. When diverse minds come together, we spark bold new ideas that challenge the status quo and reshape the world.
It’s More Than Networking — It’s Sisterhood.
Forget superficial connections. This is about building real relationships rooted in trust, purpose, and accountability. It’s about surrounding yourself with women who’ll hype you up, hold you to your goals, and open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Bottom line?
When women collaborate, we don’t just change our own lives — we change the world.
We rise higher, go further, and make history — together.
#WinTogether
And this is just one of the reasons why you can’t miss the WomenIN Festival — where real collaboration, connection, and community come to life!
Tickets start at just R999!
Pre-register today at www.wearewomenin.com — your future network is waiting.
For far too long, women were taught to compete for limited space at the table. We were told there’s only room for a few — that success is a solo journey, that scarcity is the rule. But here’s the truth: we were never meant to rise alone.
When Women Unite, Magic Happens.
The moment women choose collaboration over competition, the game changes. Walls come down. Voices grow louder. Opportunities multiply.
When we come together — across industries, cultures, backgrounds — we don’t just survive the system, we transform it. We build communities where doors are opened, where wins are shared, and where possibilities are limitless.
Shared Wisdom = Accelerated Growth
Every woman holds knowledge the world needs. Collaboration creates spaces where we can swap stories, share hard-won lessons, and pass on the playbook for success. When one woman grows, we all grow. When one woman wins, we all win.
Collaboration Creates Impact That Outlives Us
This isn’t about short-term success. It’s about rewriting the rules for the next generation of fierce, fearless women. When we collaborate, we lay the foundation for something bigger than ourselves — a legacy built on collective strength and shared purpose.
Smashing Silos, Building Bridges
Real change doesn’t happen in isolation. Collaboration helps women break through the silos that hold us back — in business, leadership, innovation, and beyond. When diverse minds come together, we spark bold new ideas that challenge the status quo and reshape the world.
It’s More Than Networking — It’s Sisterhood.
Forget superficial connections. This is about building real relationships rooted in trust, purpose, and accountability. It’s about surrounding yourself with women who’ll hype you up, hold you to your goals, and open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Bottom line?
When women collaborate, we don’t just change our own lives — we change the world.
We rise higher, go further, and make history — together.
#WinTogether
And this is just one of the reasons why you can’t miss the WomenIN Festival — where real collaboration, connection, and community come to life!
Tickets start at just R999!
Pre-register today at www.wearewomenin.com — your future network is waiting.
Career Development, Collaborative Growth, Community Building, Empowering Women, Gender Equality, Professional Growth
AI and automation future sets Africa up for a gender divide
Posted on by Nasi Hako
09
Apr
Apr
As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation continue to reshape industries globally, new findings suggest that these technological advancements could exacerbate existing gender-based inequalities. A recent report by Caribou and Genesis Analytics highlights that more women than men in Africa’s outsourcing sector are at risk of being replaced by automation and AI by 2030.
The report reveals a concerning trend: on average, women are 10% more vulnerable to the negative impacts of automation than men in the same sector. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that many women are employed in junior and lower-paying roles, which are the most susceptible to automation.
However, with the global AI market growing exponentially and expected to increase fivefold in the next five years, this vulnerability could leave women even more exposed to job displacement.
In Africa’s outsourcing sector alone, 40% of human tasks are at risk of automation. While AI presents significant opportunities for economic growth, enhanced workflows and cost reduction, it also raises the risk of mass job displacement. This is particularly worrisome for women and youth as they statistically occupy junior roles that are more easily automated.
“Junior roles, which are most common in the sector, are highly susceptible to automation, with over half of tasks automatable. Women, who disproportionately occupy these roles, face a 10% higher automation risk than men,” the report says.
To address this issue, the report calls for proactive steps to mitigate the risks of AI integration. It suggests implementing responsible AI practices and offering targeted skills training to help workers adapt to new roles. By upskilling the workforce and aligning training with emerging technological demands, women and other vulnerable groups can better navigate the changing landscape.
“To prepare young Africans for an AI-driven workforce, foundational knowledge in AI, proficiency in technical tools, and robust soft skills—such as adaptability, communication, and emotional intelligence—will be indispensable,” the report reads.
As Africa embraces the digital revolution, it’s essential to ensure that women are not left behind. To explore how women can thrive in this digital transformation, join the WomenIN Digital event at Converge Africa, a premier gathering designed to empower female tech professionals. Running alongside the event from 6-8 May 2025, the WomenIN Digital Transformation inclusive program provides opportunities for networking, inspiration and creating new pathways for women in the digital world.
The report reveals a concerning trend: on average, women are 10% more vulnerable to the negative impacts of automation than men in the same sector. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that many women are employed in junior and lower-paying roles, which are the most susceptible to automation.
However, with the global AI market growing exponentially and expected to increase fivefold in the next five years, this vulnerability could leave women even more exposed to job displacement.
In Africa’s outsourcing sector alone, 40% of human tasks are at risk of automation. While AI presents significant opportunities for economic growth, enhanced workflows and cost reduction, it also raises the risk of mass job displacement. This is particularly worrisome for women and youth as they statistically occupy junior roles that are more easily automated.
“Junior roles, which are most common in the sector, are highly susceptible to automation, with over half of tasks automatable. Women, who disproportionately occupy these roles, face a 10% higher automation risk than men,” the report says.
To address this issue, the report calls for proactive steps to mitigate the risks of AI integration. It suggests implementing responsible AI practices and offering targeted skills training to help workers adapt to new roles. By upskilling the workforce and aligning training with emerging technological demands, women and other vulnerable groups can better navigate the changing landscape.
“To prepare young Africans for an AI-driven workforce, foundational knowledge in AI, proficiency in technical tools, and robust soft skills—such as adaptability, communication, and emotional intelligence—will be indispensable,” the report reads.
As Africa embraces the digital revolution, it’s essential to ensure that women are not left behind. To explore how women can thrive in this digital transformation, join the WomenIN Digital event at Converge Africa, a premier gathering designed to empower female tech professionals. Running alongside the event from 6-8 May 2025, the WomenIN Digital Transformation inclusive program provides opportunities for networking, inspiration and creating new pathways for women in the digital world.
Career Development, Collaborative Growth, Community Building, Empowering Women, Gender Equality
Working women experience more stress than working men
Posted on by Nasi Hako
04
Apr
Apr
Women in the workplace are stressed and there are numbers to prove it. Despite progress toward gender equality, professional women continue to experience higher levels of stress, anxiety and burnout than their male counterparts.
Research shows that work-related stress affects women 50% more than men of the same age, making them more vulnerable to mental health challenges, exhaustion and even chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Beyond the pressures of leadership and career growth, many women are also juggling multiple roles as mothers, caregivers or household managers while facing persistent workplace discrimination and pay inequality.
With a global labour force participation rate of under 47% for women compared to 72% for men, female professionals are often working harder just to have a seat at the table.
But what makes the stress gap between men and women so stark? Experts point to several key factors, including:
Social pressure to be agreeable: Women are often expected to be warm, collaborative, and accommodating, making it harder for them to assert boundaries or advocate for themselves without facing backlash.
Lower pay and financial insecurity: Women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for the same roles, leading to greater financial stress and limited economic freedom.
Stereotype threat: The fear of confirming negative gender stereotypes about women’s capabilities can lead to overcompensation and burnout or, in some cases, self-doubt and underperformance.
What can we do?
Given that April is Stress Awareness Month, WomenIN encourages individuals to recognise stress, take proactive steps to manage it and advocate for workplace environments that prioritise well-being.
Here are three key ways to take control:
Prioritise self-care: Small habits like regular exercise, mindfulness and setting boundaries can significantly reduce stress levels.
Build a strong support network: Connect with mentors, peers and allies who provide encouragement and guidance.
Advocate for change: Speak up about fair pay, equal opportunities and inclusive workplace policies to create healthier and more balanced work environments.
The journey towards balance and empowerment is ongoing, but with support, awareness and systemic change, a future where women can lead without sacrificing their well-being is within reach.
To continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals who care about holistic wellness, meaningful connections and conversations that drive change, pre-register for WomenIN Festival 2025 today. Secure your opportunity to be part of a community that empowers and uplifts women across industries.
Need support? Reach out to these helplines
Experiencing stress is not a sign of failure, but it is a call to action. If stress, anxiety or burnout is affecting your well-being, you are not alone. Reach out for help:
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 456 789 (24-hour helpline)
SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
Mental Health Information Line: 0800 567 567
Your well-being matters. Seeking help is a sign of strength.
Research shows that work-related stress affects women 50% more than men of the same age, making them more vulnerable to mental health challenges, exhaustion and even chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Beyond the pressures of leadership and career growth, many women are also juggling multiple roles as mothers, caregivers or household managers while facing persistent workplace discrimination and pay inequality.
With a global labour force participation rate of under 47% for women compared to 72% for men, female professionals are often working harder just to have a seat at the table.
But what makes the stress gap between men and women so stark? Experts point to several key factors, including:
Social pressure to be agreeable: Women are often expected to be warm, collaborative, and accommodating, making it harder for them to assert boundaries or advocate for themselves without facing backlash.
Lower pay and financial insecurity: Women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for the same roles, leading to greater financial stress and limited economic freedom.
Stereotype threat: The fear of confirming negative gender stereotypes about women’s capabilities can lead to overcompensation and burnout or, in some cases, self-doubt and underperformance.
What can we do?
Given that April is Stress Awareness Month, WomenIN encourages individuals to recognise stress, take proactive steps to manage it and advocate for workplace environments that prioritise well-being.
Here are three key ways to take control:
Prioritise self-care: Small habits like regular exercise, mindfulness and setting boundaries can significantly reduce stress levels.
Build a strong support network: Connect with mentors, peers and allies who provide encouragement and guidance.
Advocate for change: Speak up about fair pay, equal opportunities and inclusive workplace policies to create healthier and more balanced work environments.
The journey towards balance and empowerment is ongoing, but with support, awareness and systemic change, a future where women can lead without sacrificing their well-being is within reach.
To continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals who care about holistic wellness, meaningful connections and conversations that drive change, pre-register for WomenIN Festival 2025 today. Secure your opportunity to be part of a community that empowers and uplifts women across industries.
Need support? Reach out to these helplines
Experiencing stress is not a sign of failure, but it is a call to action. If stress, anxiety or burnout is affecting your well-being, you are not alone. Reach out for help:
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 456 789 (24-hour helpline)
SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
Mental Health Information Line: 0800 567 567
Your well-being matters. Seeking help is a sign of strength.
