Yesterday, the transport and logistics industry witnessed a landmark moment as the EmpowaWomen in Transport Summit, hosted by EmpowaWomen in collaboration with the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA) and ABSA, brought together over 200 women leaders, professionals, and innovators at the Graceland Hotel Casino and Country Club in Mpumalanga.

This highly anticipated event, held on 25 November 2024, served as a platform to address the pressing challenges faced by women in transport and to foster collaboration, empowerment, and innovation in this traditionally male-dominated sector. With a commitment to building an inclusive and diverse industry, the summit tackled critical issues, including entrenched gender stereotypes and biases. Women in transport often face scepticism about their roles, particularly in operational or leadership positions, where their contributions may be undervalued.

TETA CEO, Maphefo Anno-Frempong, underscored the importance of addressing these challenges, stating, “This Summit was a testament to our commitment to fostering a transport sector that values diversity and supports the leadership of women. The insights and collaborations formed here will drive meaningful transformation in the industry.”

Delegates participated in panel discussions, dialogues and masterclasses that shone the spotlight on the following:

• Fuelling Innovation: Strategies to secure funding for women-led ventures.
• Procurement Strategies for Women in Transport: Building resilient supply chains.
• Driving Sustainable Growth Through Enterprise Supplier Development.
• Shaping the Future of Transport: The pivotal role of women in the industry’s evolution.

Discussions at the Summit extended to the broader systemic issues women face, such as the physical and mental health challenges of working in an industry designed with male employees in mind. Cultural and societal expectations often place additional burdens on women, pressuring them to prioritise family responsibilities over career advancement. This, coupled with the lack of mentorship opportunities and representation in leadership, makes it difficult for women to find role models and support networks critical for their success.

Zingisa Beshe, ABSA’s Regional Segment Head, reflected on the event’s significance, stating, “ABSA is proud to have supported this initiative, which not only empowers women leaders but also creates tangible opportunities for growth and innovation. This Summit is a powerful step toward achieving a more inclusive and equitable transport sector.”

The event also highlighted the need for equitable access to emerging technologies, which are increasingly shaping the future of the transport industry. Women often face exclusion from training programmes that focus on these innovations, leaving them at a disadvantage in a rapidly evolving sector. The lack of enforcement of gender equity policies further exacerbates these challenges, emphasizing the need for stronger advocacy and accountability.

The delegates and speakers truly transcended the traditional landscape of the transport and logistics industry, demonstrating the powerful ways in which women navigate its challenges and drive forward-inspired, solutions-oriented pathways for the future. From tackling procurement barriers to fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, these women are rewriting the rules to ensure their full participation in high-value contracts and logistics activities. Their collective conviction to upskill and engage in enterprise development programs was palpable, as they approached these opportunities with a clear focus on intentional, sustainable growth.

This drive for empowerment was powerfully reinforced by Kgalaletso K Tlhoaele, Head of Enterprise Development Relationship Banking at ABSA, who boldly stated, "Women are the future. With the right programs and support, they will take up more space as suppliers in the ESD value chain." The summit showcased not just the resilience of women in transport, but also their unwavering belief in their ability to shape the industry’s future by embracing growth, collaboration, and sustainability at every turn.