“At the heart of our leadership lies a commitment to empowering each individual to create lasting memories that stand the test of time. Whether you’re charting a new course alone or with valued peers, our goal is to elevate your travels with extraordinary encounters at every turn. Absorb the beauty around you, seize the adventure with both hands, and remember to bring along an inspiring book for those tranquil moments of earned relaxation.” – Natascha Langelaan, trekking expert – Bookatrekking.com
In a world where success is often measured by career growth, wealth, and power, women are constantly striving to break into higher positions. The prevailing belief is that to succeed, one must display strength, boldness, and adopt a cutthroat corporate mentality. This perception has led many to equate strong leadership with autocratic behaviour—where showing emotions, understanding, respect, and gentleness are often seen as weaknesses.
However, in our pursuit of thought leadership, the women of the Black Management Forum Young Professionals embarked on the Women Leadership Development Programme. This introspective journey, masterfully led by the extraordinary Ms. Mokgaetsi Sebothoma, was designed to challenge these traditional notions of leadership. It pushed us to unmask and unpack everything we carry within us, encouraging us to know ourselves first. We learned that our past experiences, particularly the traumas we often suppress, actually give us strength and insight. These experiences build character, resilience, respect, honesty, and authenticity—essential qualities for any good leader.
The programme’s four sessions were not just instructional; they were transformative. Through themes like “Finding Your Power,” “The Vacuum Law of Prosperity,” and “The Impression of Increase,” we were guided on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. These sessions dismantled our limitations and fuelled our ambitions, providing us with a solid foundation of what true thought leadership entails. We decluttered our minds, removed limiting beliefs, and emerged more confident in our decision-making, committed to our principles, and consistent in our values.
We also learned the importance of collaboration and the appreciation that everyone holds a significant piece in creating a better future for our country. We recognized that each of us has a unique light that should never be dimmed by trying to emulate others or feeling inadequate based on past performance.
Through this program and our continuous growth within the BMF, we have come to realise that our leadership style is precisely what South Africa needs.
About the Author
Vuyokazi Ntlebi is an Eastern Cape-born social development champion with a background in psychology and industrial sociology. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Conflict Management and Transformation at Nelson Mandela University. Vuyokazi is deeply committed to women’s and children’s rights, social justice, and equality, with a keen interest in project management. She has been actively engaged with platforms like The Young African Leaders Initiative, The Black Management Forum, and Activate. Vuyokazi is also the founder of FitFun_Mzantsi, an initiative promoting holistic fitness and wellness. As a strategic innovator, she has earned national recognition, including top honours in the ActivateLeadership SWITCH Challenge. Currently, she is working with The DG Murray Trust, focusing on creating economic opportunities for young people.
