As we celebrate Heritage Day, we reflect on the rich tapestry of backgrounds, traditions, and values that shape us. This special post highlights the incredible founders in WomHub programmes, exploring how their diverse heritages have influenced their entrepreneurial journeys. Read on as these inspiring women share how their cultural roots have supported them in STEM and business.

1. Queen Ndlovu: Embracing a Mixed Cultural Identity

Heritage:
"I am a product of a mixed culture, having been influenced by Zulu, Tswana, Sepedi, and English traditions. Growing up in Soweto with a strong Zulu influence, I was later exposed to Tswana and English cultures through my family, which shaped my upbringing. My cultural journey is one of blending identities, and as an adult, I celebrate a mixture of these traditions."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"My Zulu heritage has instilled in me a sense of assertiveness and authenticity, traits that I carry into my business life. From the English side of my upbringing, I learned the importance of professionalism, education, and making a mark in business without being defined by my gender."

Cultural Wisdom:
"Embrace diversity and use local knowledge to create solutions. Build businesses that create wealth and opportunities with the wisdom of our cultural heritage."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Remain authentic and be proud of your unique heritage. Lift others as you rise, and don't fear failure—it's your greatest teacher."

2. Nivashnee Ramparsad: A Legacy of Hard Work and Learning

Heritage:
"Growing up in a large Indian family, my upbringing was shaped by the hard work of my father in his own business and the nurturing wisdom of my mother and grandparents. They taught me unconditional love and the importance of education, which inspired me to pursue continuous learning and entrepreneurship."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"My family values pushed me toward a career in electrical engineering, with a mission to inspire more women to enter male-dominated fields. I now run businesses in robotics and IoT technology, contributing to a sustainable future by nurturing the next generation of engineers."

Cultural Wisdom:
"The lesson my family instilled in me is that we all have a responsibility to take care of others. This value drives me to make a meaningful impact on the world and to lift others as I grow."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Use the challenges you face to make a difference in the world. It’s crucial to find your true purpose, not just the expectations of your family or traditions."

3. Fanelesibonge Mbuyazi: The Power of Ubuntu and Perseverance

Heritage:
"As a proud Zulu, my heritage is rooted in community, respect, and resilience. For me, it’s about carrying forward the strength and wisdom of my ancestors while embracing modernity, ensuring our rich traditions continue to shape the future."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"The Zulu concept of 'ubuntu'—that we are who we are because of others—has shaped my approach to entrepreneurship. I focus on creating solutions that uplift communities and prioritize collaboration. This collective spirit drives my leadership style."

Cultural Wisdom:
"Perseverance, or 'ukuqina,' is a core value in Zulu culture, and it has helped me navigate the many challenges of entrepreneurship. I also value the tradition of storytelling, which guides how I communicate my brand’s mission and inspire others."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Embrace your heritage as a source of strength. Blend tradition with innovation and carry the spirit of resilience and compassion into everything you do."

As we reflect, it’s clear that heritage is more than just a celebration of the past—it’s a driving force in shaping the future. These incredible founders are proof that our cultural roots provide the foundation for innovation, leadership, and impact in today’s world.

To all the women aspiring to follow in these footsteps, remember: your heritage is your strength, your guide, and your inspiration to create a lasting legacy. Happy Heritage Day!

Founders:
Nivashnee Rampad, founder of Iconix Engineering Solutions (Pty) Ltd trading as Smartee- LinkedIn
Fanelesibonge Mbuyazi, founder of Seen- LinkedIn
Queen Ndlovu, founder of QP Drone Tech- LinkedIn

Serisha Barrat is the CEO of two innovative platforms: Boardroom, a dating app tailored for professionals, and Lawyered Up, a cutting-edge legal tech platform.

At Lawyered Up, advanced AI technology is harnessed to make legal services accessible, efficient, and affordable for start-ups, SMEs, and individuals across Africa. The platform simplifies complex legal processes, such as contract creation, review, and compliance management, providing custom legal documents swiftly and ensuring businesses stay compliant with regional laws.

Initially, $10,000 was allocated to establish Lawyered Up as an LLC and to develop iOS and Android apps, with the aim of bringing legal services directly to mobile users. However, it was quickly discovered that a mobile app wasn’t the optimal solution for the users' needs. Legal tech, especially for processes like document review and contract management, requires a more robust interface that can handle extensive documents and complex workflows. The mobile apps couldn’t provide the necessary depth and scale for these tasks.

Realising this, the focus was shifted to developing a comprehensive, web-based platform that supports a larger-scale legal marketplace and enhances document handling capabilities. This pivot allowed Lawyered Up to better align its services with the needs of its users, offering a more powerful and efficient solution.
​
Furthermore, Lawyered Up recently partnered with a legal tech start-up based in Nigeria, showcasing the incredible synergy across the African continent. This collaboration promises to expand the platform's reach and impact. Stay tuned for more details about this exciting partnership.

At the end of the second quarter last year, we completed a minimalist version of the eFama
App and had a soft launch, registering over 6000 buyers and 5000 farmers. Despite this
milestone, our app was still in its Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage, requiring significant
improvements and commercialisation efforts.

Our challenge was to expand our market reach, develop a detailed commercial model, and
implement essential business systems. Transitioning from a local to a global business, we
faced international competition and standards, which made our journey even more daunting.

At this critical juncture, I discovered the first-ever Women in Tech program by Standard
Chartered and WomHub and applied. Out of nearly 100 applicants, I was thrilled to be one of
the 12 selected. I committed to focusing solely on this opportunity to gain the most from it.

The program was transformative for me and eFama App. Through group and one-on-one
sessions with world-class experts, we worked on improving our systems and market
readiness. Two days after implementing the suggested improvements, I applied to a
prestigious fund owned by a global tech giant, leveraging the groundwork laid by the Women
in Tech program, and we were accepted, securing our runway for several years.

​In the same week, I pitched our business to a panel of experts and investors organised by
Standard Chartered and WomHub. I was honoured to be among the five women who
received a grant, which boosted our market readiness.

The most valuable aspect of the program was the expert input and the strong community of
women within the ecosystem. The grant was crucial, but the knowledge and systems we
developed were priceless, ensuring our business's long-term viability.

This program is an incredible opportunity for anyone who focuses and gives it their best. The
support and insights I received were instrumental in our success.

South Africa's mining sector has long been a significant contributor to the country's economy, known for its vast mineral wealth. However, one glaring issue has persisted for years - the industry's male-dominated nature. Women have traditionally faced numerous challenges in accessing opportunities and breaking into key roles within the mining sector.

I caught up with some of the female entrepreneurs on the Sasol sponsored Women In Mining Incubator programme at WomHub to ask for their insights on the following:

Keamogetswe Matsho, Founder of Lamont Trading and Supplies:

Can you tell us about your journey into the mining industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

"My journey into the mining industry started after working as a management consultant for a drilling company that operated in the public sector (drilling boreholes for government projects at schools and rural communities) and also in the mining sector. I was contracted to corporatise the Group of companies and also work with a team to facilitate the acquisition of another company that operated in the mining sector too. I spent the year learning a lot about the industry that had always fascinated me, but had always felt a bit out of reach. After the year of operating as a consultant that filled in the role of Group Chief Operating Officer, and having identified the gaps when it comes to transformation in the mining sector, I made the decision to take the leap and not only offer consulting services, but rather products (namely drilling consumables and ground engaging tools) and mining drilling services through my company, Lamont Trading and Supplies"

Mining has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. What were some of the initial challenges you faced when entering this industry, and how did you overcome them?

“Lamont Trading and Supplies is still a relatively new entrant when it comes to operating in the mining industry and with that said, the initial challenges that any company will face within the first three years of entering a new market are ones that we are still grappling with. The male dominated industry is tough, you need to have a thick skin for it. I have decided to not be deterred when doors have been closed in front of me and I have built a network and also found great allies and supporters  (both male and female) of my ultimate vision for my company.  My manufacturing partners and clients (predominantly male) have left a seat on the table for me. The journey still continues as we strive to grow the company from where it is today and I will continue to face the same challenges in new environments, and I will still give it my best shot. ”

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

I have not had a female mentor in the mining industry before. I would definitely love to have one, to be honest. There is so much more to learn about navigating this complex industry. I have however had a female mentor before, she shaped the trajectory of my future over 10 years ago. She's a fierce entrepreneur who operates in a different male dominated industry respectively.

My role models include but are not limited to:  Lindiwe Nakedi , MD of Gubhani Exploration,  Nolitha Fakude, Nombasa Tsengwa and Folorunsho Alakija to name a few.

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?

"Women have a rare combination of critical thinking skills and intuition. We move with care, precision and foresight, which are all essential soft skills and qualities in the mining sector. We are committed to delivering excellence due to understanding that our performance is always viewed under a microscopic lense. Women, being the recipient of prejudice and biases in the mining industry, are also key in advancing the gender diversity and equity agenda in businesses they run and leadership and management positions they hold in large mining corporations. As women, we always want to see more women in the rooms we occupy and understand the interventions that need to be put in place to create an enabling environment for such.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“1. Know your industry and identify the gaps that you believe you will be able to fill.
2. Understand your products and service offering, unpack it and ensure that your offering provides value to the end user.
3. Do not doubt your capabilities. If you believe that God has called you into operating in the mining industry, then go for it.
4. Do not give up. The first three years are hard for some, but persevere and build or join a network and community of other young female entrepreneurs so that you are comforted in knowing that the challenges you are facing are not unique but are somewhat unfortunately a "rite of passage".
5. Know your worth and do not let anyone talk you out of the value that you can offer and do not compromise yourself at all. It is ok to walk out of a deal that may lead to you compromising your integrity. It is never worth it.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

"I advocate for substantial transformation in the mining industry to empower women. This involves supporting women-owned businesses through initiatives like Sasol's Women in Mining Programme, increasing women's presence in senior management and procurement roles, creating a strong pipeline from education to specialized jobs, addressing prejudices about gender roles in mining, and providing financial access. Moreover, the industry must ensure women-owned businesses have market access, break down entry barriers, and involve more men in these efforts for a truly inclusive mining sector."

Nqobile Valentia Veronica Mkhabela, Founder of Siyanqobangamandla Trading:

What inspired you to enter the mining industry despite its challenges?

“My journey into the mining industry has had a fair share of challenges, but the thought of giving up wasn’t an option. For in the midst of adversity, that is when one grows stronger. My inspiration brewed from the industry being labelled as a male field of work, for I am a firm believer that anything that a man can do a woman can do better, I just wanted to change that narrative and I am living proof that it is possible and you can succeed at it too.”

What were some initial challenges you faced in the male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?

The main challenge is that I am a woman, and that women are not capable of being a part of the mining industry let alone thriving in it. Already that felt like I was set up for failure, but I never allowed that to change my plans. So I decided to beat them at their own field, I was involved in every operation, taught myself the scope of work and gradually started to understand what was required from me as an individual in order to better the company. I allowed myself to be a student whether it was sitting behind the desk and learning about mining or having mentors out in the field educating me in order to succeed, I allowed myself to be receptive and that is how I overcame them.

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

“I definitely have female role models/mentors, the first one being my mother who really wasn’t exposed to this industry in my upbringing however she ignited the entrepreneurial spirit within me that later got me the courage to start my own business. I then have role models with technical backgrounds in mining who have helped build my self-esteem, and made sure that I not only grow in this industry but I also get to add value to it. So that I would be able to pass the baton to the next woman who aspires to be in this industry.”

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?

“Improved operational efficiency, better risk management, being attentive to detail and better communicating skills.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“I have this triple E rule(expose, excel, expand) in business which has helped shape the woman I am today and cemented me in this industry. Expose yourself to other people who are in the industry and are succeeding at it, because you will ultimately emulate who you’re surrounded by. Excel in the opportunities provided to you, people will notice and trust me success will come chasing after you. Lastly, strategize to expand your business or yourself in the industry, because there is plenty of room for growth for everyone one of us women. In conclusion do not be afraid to take up space there’s a lot of gaps we women are able to fill in the industry, we just need to stretch out to reach them.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

“There’s not much change required for we have come a long way. We come from a time where all services in the industry were granted to men only, so if there’s anything we need as women in mining right now , it would be support. Supporting women in getting more opportunities within the industry, and supporting small upcoming business owned by women.”

Funanani Glender Lekota, Founder of Corner Circle Consulting:

What motivated you to pursue a career in mining engineering?

“My professional journey into the field of engineering was largely motivated by a deep-seated fascination with mathematics and science, which I nurtured during my formative years. Engineering, as a discipline, consistently resonated with my academic interests and goals, and it emerged as a prominent field during my high school education. I ultimately elected to pursue a career in mining engineering due to my authentic passion for geology, earth sciences, and the intricate processes associated with the extraction of valuable minerals and resources from our planet's depths. ”

What were some initial challenges you faced in the male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?

"I faced immense challenges as a woman in the mining industry. People believed women couldn’t thrive here. I refused to succumb. Instead, I immersed myself in every aspect, learning and adapting. From understanding the operations to improving the company, I was determined. I became a perpetual student, learning at desks and from mentors in the field. I remained receptive, overcoming hurdles through sheer determination and knowledge." 

"In my journey, I encountered obstacles: ill-fitting gear, inadequate facilities, unwanted attention, and biased stereotypes. Some colleagues exhibited disrespectful attitudes. Despite not fully overcoming these challenges, I adapted to this hostile environment. Yet, awareness campaigns have made a difference. They've started breaking barriers and making the mining industry more inclusive for women like me."

Building a network and finding mentors can be crucial for career growth. Have you had female mentors or role models in the mining industry? How have they influenced your career?

“Having a role model or a source of inspiration has been instrumental in my career journey. I firmly believe in the value of surrounding oneself with individuals who have excelled in the same industry. This practice serves as a constant reminder of the possibilities and potential within our chosen field. One particular individual whose journey closely paralleled my own became a profound source of inspiration. Her experiences and achievements significantly influenced the trajectory of my career, broadening my perspective on the myriad opportunities available in the mining industry. This mentorship and sharing of experiences provided critical insights and guidance, enabling me to navigate the complexities of the mining industry with greater confidence and determination.”

In your experience, what unique perspectives or skills do women bring to the mining industry that can positively impact the sector?​

“Effective Communication and Collaboration Skills: Women typically demonstrate exceptional proficiency in communication and collaboration, important qualities of in an industry like mining that heavily relies on teamwork. Their capacity to nurture constructive working relationships proved to elevate both productivity and the overall synergy on mining projects.

Exemplary Attention to Detail: Precision plays a pivotal role in mining, where safety and efficiency are crucial. Women often exhibit a meticulous approach that can substantially contribute to enhanced quality control and the implementation of rigorous safety protocols. This precision underscores their strategic aptitude in approaching tasks.

Empathy and Community Engagement: Women frequently bring with them a pronounced sense of empathy and active engagement with local communities in their mining roles. This attribute assumes particular significance when addressing socio-environmental issues and fostering positive rapport with communities impacted by mining activities.”

What advice would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to enter or excel in the mining industry, especially in South Africa?

“Embrace professionalism by gaining technical skills. Get hands-on experience and learn the ins and outs of your field through hard work. Start your entrepreneurial journey with determination and a strong work ethic. Stay consistent, keep putting in effort until you see results. When you take on new business opportunities, be actively involved from the beginning of each project. This is where you build your knowledge and expertise. Success is a mix of technical expertise from experience and a good understanding of how business works. Craft your own path to success through hard work and expertise.”

What do you believe needs to change within the mining industry, both at the company and societal levels, to create a more inclusive environment for women?

​"I firmly believe there's a critical need for a change in how some men perceive women in the mining industry. There's a prevalent belief among certain male individuals that women are inherently less capable than men in this field. It's vital for men to adopt a more inclusive mindset, promoting a positive attitude towards women. We urgently need more women in the industry to address the existing gender imbalance. The mining culture heavily favors men, making it uncomfortable for women and reducing their presence. This lack of representation perpetuates harmful treatment and objectification of women. To break this cycle, the industry must actively educate men, raise awareness about women's challenges, and implement concrete measures to reform our cultural dynamics." 


​To conclude, the journey toward gender diversity and inclusivity in South Africa's mining sector is ongoing, but the industry is making strides in the right direction. With concerted efforts from government, businesses like the support from Sasol’s Enterprise and Supplier Development team, and advocacy groups, more women are breaking through the barriers and achieving success in the traditionally male-dominated world of mining. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to maintain momentum and create an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to the growth and sustainability of South Africa's mining sector.







Social Media Links:
Keamogetswe Matsho, Founder of Lamont Trading and Supplies
Nqobile Valentia Veronica Mkhabela, Founder of Siyanqobangamandla Trading
Funanani Glender Lekota, Founder of Corner Circle Consulting

This week we celebrated the close of the Western Cape Economic Growth Amplifier programme – an entrepreneurial development programme for 30 Female Founders run by WomHub in partnership with the Western Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism – a partnership with a joint mission to develop existing women led SME’s in the Western Cape to amplify economic growth in the province.
 
The programme was designed intentionally as an amplifier – recognizing the strides that SME’s have already made in creating and sustaining their businesses and then supporting their needs to stimulate growth and scale. On the programme, Founders were led on a journey of masterclasses, venture clinics and pitch coaching as well as mentorship, business and financial coaching to work on practically implementing learnings. In addition, cohort members received grant and equipment funding and access to the WomHub Cape Town co-working and innovation hub -  which this partnership with the Western Cape government contributed to enabling.
 
As we continue to work with female founders we recognise the importance of meeting them where they’re at, providing customised opportunities and coaching to support them and the obstacles faced with running businesses in a challenging economic environment regardless of business stage. On this programme, Founders demonstrated the resilience of female entrepreneurs, but more importantly highlighted the need for investment – in skills, equipment and much needed funding; and access – to networks, opportunities and collaborations to further develop and impact the reigniting of the economy for the province, the nation and the continent!
 
At the closeout session, entrepreneurs showcased their businesses in the pitch competition where Zandile Tlhapi, Founder of Sentle Tech & Tele Services (Pty) Ltd (formerly Khaltsha Communication Hub, Nthabiseng Msingatha, Founder of YOUMETA and Jasantha Singh Founder of Aurora Natural Skincare walked away with cash prizes and connected as a tribe and community on the way forward.

There is a misconception that a woman in engineering has to be an engineer; this is misleading and untrue. While the term "women in engineering" typically refers to women who are actively working or studying in the field of engineering, it can also encompass a broader range of roles and activities within the engineering domain. Here are a few examples that make up the ecosystem:

Engineers: Women who are trained and employed as engineers, designing, developing, and implementing various technologies and solutions.

Researchers: Women who engage in engineering research, contributing to advancements in knowledge and technology without necessarily working directly in industry roles.

Educators: Women who teach engineering subjects at schools, colleges, and universities, helping to educate the next generation of engineers.

Managers and Leaders: Women who hold managerial or leadership positions in engineering companies or departments, overseeing projects, teams, and operations.

Advocates and Activists: Women who work to promote diversity and inclusion in engineering, address gender disparities, and support the professional development of women in the field.

Entrepreneurs: Women who establish their own engineering-related businesses, such as startups focused on innovative technologies or solutions.

Consultants: Women who provide expert advice and services in engineering-related areas, contributing their specialized knowledge to various projects.

Technical Writers and Communicators: Women who excel in explaining complex engineering concepts through writing, communication, and media.

Policy Makers and Regulators: Women who contribute to shaping engineering policies, standards, and regulations at governmental or organizational levels.

STEM Advocates: Women who encourage and inspire young girls and women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing, and mining (STEM) fields.

In essence, "women in engineering" is a broad term that recognizes the various ways women can contribute to and impact the field of engineering, whether through hands-on technical work, research, education, leadership, advocacy, or other roles.

We reached out to some of the founders who were on our Sasol Women In Engineering Incubator programme and asked the following:

1 As a woman with an engineering (or engineering adjacent) business, why is it important to have support in the supply chain? 

“Support in any supply chain is incredibly important. As a woman, support in the supply chain means equal opportunity. By supporting women in the supply chain, we create a level playing field that allows women-owned businesses equal opportunity to access resources, contracts, and partnerships. Thus, allowing diverse perspectives where women-owned businesses can offer unique insights and creative solutions that benefit the industry as a whole.”
Meghan Rugg, Founder of Fawkes Thermal Manufacturing

“The support helps to break the stereotypes and bias, and this should not only be with supply chain, but the whole organization.”
Ndilisa Didiza, Founder of Kgothatso Innovations

“Support in the supply chain is essential for a woman-owned engineering business. Such support, which is often lacking, goes beyond just teaching women how to grow their businesses. It ensures access to resources, leading to timely deliveries, high-quality materials, and ultimately resulting in smoother operations and improved customer satisfaction. This backing is particularly crucial due to the industry's gender imbalance, as it encourages a more balanced sector and challenges existing stereotypes.”
Noxolo Fani, Founder of Phenomenal Light Construction

“The supply chain is important for our services and products to be able to enter various market segments. It enables businesses to have competitive advantage which leads to an increase of sales. Sales is the core of every business therefore it is crucial to have support from the supply chain system. To be giving an opportunity to provide your products and services to potential clients that might also have suppliers providing a similar products and services.”
Nomagugu Mvelase, Founder of Lizwile Engineering Pty Ltd

Key Takeaway: 
Support in the supply chain is crucial in breaking barries, promoting access to markets, upskilling through capacity building initiatives, building relationships, collaborations and partnerships through key networking opportunities, funding opportunities through connections to investors, knowledge and experience sharing among entrepreneurs, having female role models in STEM which promotes equal representation and diversity. It is clear that supply chain support that addresses socioeconomic inequalities and provides tailored assistance can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem.

2 What does it mean to be a woman in engineering?

“Being a women in engineering means creating space at a table for anyone who was not invited and allowing them to bring their own innovations and unique skills. I am also a firm believer in Representations Matters. This for me gives me the opportunity to become a role model that I did not have as a child. My story allows young girls to believe that they can become whatever they want to and not have to be concerned with whether they are the wrong gender.”
Meghan Rugg, Founder of Fawkes Thermal Manufacturing

“It means I have a valuable contribution to make to the industry and that I am capable and knowledgeable as my male peers.”
Ndilisa Didiza, Founder of Kgothatso Innovations

“Being a woman in engineering entails shattering stereotypes, offering diverse viewpoints, and conquering obstacles within a historically male-dominated sector. It involves making valuable strides in technological progress while also dedicating time to inspire and support young girls and women venturing into traditionally male-dominated industries. This facet holds personal significance to me; it embodies a sense of purpose that I've cherished even before entering the industry or establishing my business. I strive to be the guiding figure I wished for during my own youth, providing mentorship, inspiration, and encouragement to empower them with confidence, self-love, and the resilience to flourish despite outdated societal norms.”
Noxolo Fani, Founder of Phenomenal Light Construction

“I am aware that I have a responsibility to encourage and demonstrate that it possible for women lead successful engineering business.It means that I must share my journey with other women and assist them to believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Nomagugu Mvelase, Founder of Lizwile Engineering Pty Ltd

Key Takeaway: 
Being a woman in engineering involves navigating both challenges such as gender stereotypes, underrepresentation, workplace dynamics, cultural & societal norms, work-lef balance, and opportunities like diversity benefits, advocacy & support, changing landscape, educational initiatives and government policies. While there are obstacles to overcome, there is also a growing recognition of the value of diversity in the field, leading to efforts aimed at creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women pursuing careers in engineering.

3 From your experience on the Sasol Women In Engineering programme, does one have to be an engineer to be on the programme?

“Not at all. The Sasol Women in Engineering programme was more focused on upskilling you with business skills. Yes, was tailored for Engineering businesses but more along the lines of how to market your product, how to overcome struggles of your business, creating a firm foundation to grow your business from, etc.”
Meghan Rugg, Founder of Fawkes Thermal Manufacturing

“No, I am not an engineer and I was selected. I bring in the science to help Engineers focus on what they do.”
Ndilisa Didiza, Founder of Kgothatso Innovations

“My university studies were in multimedia, with a focus on animation, rather than engineering. After a few years at an advertising firm, I realized it wasn't the right fit. When an opportunity arose in the construction industry, I spent years learning hands-on and receiving mentorship before establishing my engineering business. Initiatives like the Sasol Women In Engineering program welcome both female engineers who run engineering businesses and non-engineer females leading such businesses. Their goal is to empower and assist women in leadership roles within the engineering sector and further integrate these businesses into their supply chain.”
Noxolo Fani, Founder of Phenomenal Light Construction

“Sasol Women Engineering has provided an opportunity to enhance my business skills, access to international market and offered support to build a business that is anchored on financial excellence.”
Nomagugu Mvelase, Founder of Lizwile Engineering Pty Ltd

Key Takeaway: 
You do not have to be an engineer to be a woman in engineering!

LinkedIn & websites: 

1. Meghan Rugg & Fawkes Thermal Manufacturing & Supplies,
2. Ndilisa Didiza & Kgothatso Innovations, 
3. Noxolo Fani & Phenomenal Light Construction, and 
4. Nomagugu Mvelase & Lizwile Engineering (Pty) Ltd

Application Link: Sasol Women in Engineering Incubator 2023 - WomHub
Deadline: 13 August 2023

Circular Economy Incubation product sprint
At WomHub, we have designed our Circular Economy Incubator (#CEI) around a design sprint methodology in order to support and leverage rapid product growth and iteration for our cohort founders. Design thinking is a human-centric approach to problem-solving and innovation that places a strong emphasis on understanding the needs and preferences of users. When testing a new product for the market, applying design thinking principles can offer several benefits:

User-Centric Focus: Design thinking begins by empathizing with the end-users. This approach ensures that the product's design and features are aligned with the actual needs, behaviours, and desires of the target audience. By deeply understanding users, you increase the likelihood of creating a product that resonates with them.​
Enhanced User Experience: Design thinking encourages a holistic view of the user experience. Through iterative prototyping and testing, you can identify pain points, challenges, and opportunities to enhance the overall usability and satisfaction of the product.

Iterative Prototyping: Design thinking involves creating prototypes and mock-ups of the product early in the development process. By testing these prototypes with users, you can gather feedback, refine the design, and make improvements before investing significant resources in full-scale development.

Innovation and Creativity: Design thinking fosters a culture of creativity and encourages teams to think outside the box. By exploring a wide range of potential solutions, you increase the likelihood of uncovering unique features or approaches that can set your product apart in the market.

Reduced Risk of Failure: By involving users early and often in the design and testing process, you can identify and address potential issues and challenges before the product is launched. This reduces the risk of launching a product that fails to meet user expectations or market demands.


Cross-Functional Collaboration: Design thinking promotes collaboration between different teams and disciplines, such as designers, developers, marketers, and business analysts. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the product, from its functionality to its branding, are aligned and cohesive.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Design thinking encourages a flexible and adaptive mindset. As you gather feedback and insights from users, you can make informed adjustments to the product's design and features, ensuring that it remains relevant and valuable in a rapidly changing market.

Early Validation: Through rapid prototyping and testing, design thinking allows you to validate your product concept early in the development process. This validation helps you make data-driven decisions and minimizes the risk of investing in a product that doesn't resonate with the target market.

Empowerment of Stakeholders: Design thinking values input from various stakeholders, including users, clients, and internal teams. This inclusivity empowers stakeholders to contribute to the product's design and development, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement.

Focus on Long-Term Success: Design thinking isn't just about creating a product; it's about creating a product that solves real problems and provides long-term value to users. By prioritizing user needs and satisfaction, you increase the chances of building a successful and sustainable product in the market.

Incorporating design thinking principles into the process of testing a new product can lead to more user-centered, innovative, and effective outcomes, ultimately increasing the product's chances of success at market. The #CEI programme is an eight month hybrid programme that kicks off in September 2023 and is centered around these principles to test and validate circular solutions for either early stage ideation startups or for businesses that are currently at market but would like to test and validate more circular products and approaches. 

If you would like to read more on the circular economy and unpack the CE value chain, we have published these helpful links:

• What is the Circular Economy
• Circular Economy Value Chain
• Are you a Circular Startup
• SAFM radio interview on the Circular Economy

Click here to #Apply to the Circular Economy Incubator: Circular Economy Incubator - WomHub

When someone asks me what we do at WomHub, I usually say we solve for pain. That is at its essence what entrepreneurs do. Find a pain point and figure out a solution. Sometimes the solution is easy, other times it’s complex, especially when you look for a sustainable solution not just a band-aid. So, this women’s month marks almost 18 years of building various solutions to solve the pain of the lack of women in STEM. We define it as science, technology, engineering, mining and manufacturing. This is a personal pain as women engineers turned entrepreneurs turned investors. We have found as we evolved that at each point in the value chain women remain underrepresented, underfunded and underestimated. We also have the hindsight to have been working on supporting women in STEM, the foresight to build what’s next and the insights from our work. Collectively we have built the entire ecosystem for women in STEM. But what does this mean.


The Chinese have a proverb that says the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best is now. Almost 20 years ago we planted the seeds of STEM for girls. We had to start early as research from leanin.org showed that girls as young as 6 are socialised into thinking that maths and science are difficult, and it is what boys are good at. We challenge these misconceptions and showcase a world of engineering to girls, brought role models into their space and made a commitment to empower 1 million girls around the world into STEM. I was on a call a few weeks ago with our partners at Sasol and one of the engineers said to me she became an engineer because of us and the power of the GirlEng programme. The seeds have grown into incredible trees. I posted this on LinkedIn and had my comments inundated with similar stories of women who because engineers because of us. Their lives irrevocably changed. 

I think about this and the entrepreneurship ecosystem where we are supporting female entrepreneurs in STEM. You can’t have an industry without talent. I think about Pamela from Shareopps who was a fellow on our university programme and started a company. There are many like her who are senior engineers and deciding to journey into entrepreneurship. They are funding us and I’m so excited to support their growth. I received an email from Byeronie. She and her business partner Dineo are both WomEng fellows - they were on our university employability and entrepreneurship programme and have started a company. She needed meeting space for a strategy session and our co-working and innovation spaces provided that for her. In fact, this month, we partner with Cisco and launch the first female focus super tech spaces. The power of Cisco and WomHub collaboration brings fintech labs, full stack observatories for cybersecurity, VR and health tech boys. It’s a techie paradise democratising access to deep tech. But none of this means anything if we can’t move capital into female founders. It’s embarrassing that only 2% of VC dollars is going to women in Africa. So, we are solving for that pain, by investing in entrepreneurs like Thato who is also a WomEng fellow.

This is a coming-of-age story, that the WomHub group has been working tirelessly on. From talent to entrepreneurship to spaces to capital. The only entity in the world to comprehensively build the entire ecosystem for women in STEM and in doing so ignite the ecosystem. This is only the beginning. I can’t wait to show you what we solve next. Watch this space.