Women in the 21st century are making bold moves and breaking long-standing barriers. As we celebrate Women’s Month, commemorating the historic 1956 march to the Union Buildings under the theme “Building Resilient Economies for All”, we are reminded of the importance of inclusive economic development. This theme highlights the urgent need to ensure that women and girls have access to opportunities, resources, and the support necessary to thrive both economically and within their communities.
Today, women continue to take up space in industries that were once perceived as male-dominated, including ICT, transport, logistics, and construction. And they’re doing so with tenacity and skill, paving the way for younger generations to follow.
A shining example is Landiwe Khumalo, who joined the Concord Cranes team in Midrand, five years ago as a general worker. Through hard work and a determined spirit, she has since earned her position as a crane operator, one of the most demanding roles in the industry. Operating a crane requires a deep understanding of mechanics, strict adherence to safety protocols, load management, attention to detail, and clear communication. It’s both physically and mentally demanding, yet Lindiwe meets every challenge with a positive attitude, ensuring smooth operations and consistently delivering incident-free results.
Similarly, Lucretia De Lange, began her journey at Uni-span in 2011 as a receptionist. Today, she is a bookkeeper and is flourishing in her role. “Uni-span has helped me grow, both personally and professionally. They supported my journey every step of the way, including investing in my studies,” says Lucretia.
The career journeys of women like Lindiwe and Lucretia are powerful reminders of what is possible when women are given equal access to opportunities and resources. Their success not only reflects their strength and resilience but also highlights the collective benefit of empowering women in the workplace.
