Life-changing Lerato: Empowering the future
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to empowering others. From spearheading transformative developmental programmes to fostering diversity and inclusion, I have left an indelible mark on the lives of many
As I continue to share my journey of hope (having been pregnant at the age of 17 and going on to qualify as a chartered accountant and leading in my field) my hope is to impress upon those around me that our circumstances don’t have to determine where we end up.
To lead is to serve
A common golden thread in my journey has been that of service. I believe that to lead well, you absolutely have to serve well – and truly, if serving is beneath you, then leading is beyond you. One of my groundbreaking achievements from back in 2012 was the establishment of the AWCA UKZA Student Chapter. Powered by the AWCA (African Women Chartered Accountants), this programme aims to provide support and leadership development opportunities for aspiring African women CAs who are still at the tertiary level. Under my guidance, this programme has propelled the careers of numerous African women students, nurturing their leadership potential and fostering their professional growth from an early age.
Empowering the future through mentorship
Driven by my passion for mentorship, I stepped into the role of co-chairperson at Young Leaders Connect − IDEAL. During my tenure, the programme witnessed remarkable success, boasting its largest cohort of mentees to date, with approximately 120 women participating. Through the programme, these esteemed individuals had the invaluable opportunity to be mentored by members of the International Women’s Forum South Africa (IWFSA) and other mentors not associated with IWFSA, gaining insights, guidance, and inspiration. Moreover, our mentees have been exposed to thought-provoking conversations on consequential topics, profoundly impacting the trajectory of their leadership. By equipping them with skills for board leadership and entrepreneurship, I am laying the foundation for a new generation of empowered women leaders.
Empowering the future through transformation
My commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion extends beyond mentorship programmes. As chairperson of the transformation committee at Netcare, I have been instrumental in driving change within the organisation on aspects of transformation. One noteworthy accomplishment was spearheading Netcare’s inaugural Women’s Day event, a milestone occasion that will be celebrated annually going forward. The event centred around the vital role of women in shaping the social, economic and cultural landscape. Its impact was felt throughout the organisation, with hundreds of employees, including members of the executive committee, engaging in the discussions, and highlighting the significance of gender representation within the workplace.
Representation and belonging
Belonging and representation are essential elements for creating an inclusive and thriving work environment. I truly recognise that fostering a sense of belonging encourages employee satisfaction and engagement, and ultimately leads to the overall success of an organisation. Through my work, I want to continue to create spaces where diverse individuals can bring their unique perspectives, experiences, and talents to the table. By valuing and appreciating diversity, I hope to promote an environment of empowerment, collaboration, and achievement, enriching workplaces and communities alike.
Bringing it all together – The role of my work on ESG and SDG (Goals #5 & #10)
As a social justice activist, I believe that we should continue to advocate for women’s rights and human rights. By championing gender equality and reducing inequalities within organisations, I am directly contributing to the attainment of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) numbers 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). My work paves the way for a more equitable and just society where women are afforded equal opportunities and where diversity is celebrated as a strength. My journey is an inspiration to all who seek to empower others and make a lasting impact. My quest is to continue being of service to others and remain dedicated to changing lives and shaping a world where everyone has the chance to flourish.