Sustainable Leadership Takes Centre Stage: Honouring Women Pioneers

In celebrating women's achievements and the power of sustainable leadership, Proudly South African and Southern Sun united in recognising the extraordinary contributions of female thought leaders, trailblazers, and business leaders.

The Women’s Month celebration, held on August 30, 2024, at 54 on Bath, in Rosebank showcased women's incredible strides in various fields. The event, facilitated by the dynamic veteran broadcaster and news anchor Leanne Manas, brought together a panel of local experts to discuss the theme of sustainable leadership. Guests were encouraged to embrace a regeneration-inspired look by wearing locally sourced attire.

The panel discussion featured a diverse group of inspiring women: Joslin Lydall, a chemical engineer and co-founder of Catalyst Solutions; Candy Tothill Kruger, Corporate Affairs Management Consultant at Southern Sun; Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, Proudly SA’s CMO; and Mapholo Ratau, the founder of the fashion and lifestyle brand Ledikana. Together, they explored key topics such as citizenship, entrepreneurship, localisation, and the importance of environmental preservation.

As the panellists shared their personal experiences and insights, it became evident that sustainable leadership is not just about achieving business success but also about making a positive impact on society and the planet. By embracing principles of sustainability, these women have demonstrated their commitment to creating a better future for generations to come.

Honouring Proudly SA’s majority women-led team, Chief Marketing Officer Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, reflected on the profound impact of providing opportunities for young women. Having started her career as an intern, she understood firsthand the difference such opportunities make. This experience drives her commitment to uplift and mentor young women under her leadership, ensuring they reach their full potential.

“This partnership with Southern Sun is a historical one, with both organisations coming together to outline a way forward in ensuring that women in leadership roles continue to break boundaries and provide innovations in their various fields of work.”