Shendy Mahloele, a 27-year-old entrepreneur, is transforming agriculture in South Africa through her company, Shendy Agri Co. Founded on principles of discipline, consistency, and leadership by example, Mahloele draws on her background in civil engineering and experience as a construction site safety representative to oversee every facet of her business, from operations and workplace safety to mentoring her team and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Her approach to farming is informed by the planning, precision, and problem-solving skills honed in construction, reflecting her belief that influence is earned through action rather than title or authority. Mahloele’s journey into entrepreneurship was inspired by colleagues who demonstrated resilience, professionalism, and respect. Their example reinforced her conviction that leadership is defined by the ability to inspire confidence, create opportunities, and help others succeed. With a passion for agriculture and a commitment to continuous learning, she aims to build a sustainable business that benefits her community and encourages young people to view agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path. Zanele Zwane, 33, another emerging leader in South African agriculture, runs Easyzee Solutions, a company that combines commercial success with social purpose. As a second-generation farmer with a postgraduate diploma in marketing management, Zwane manages everything from vegetable and livestock production to finance, strategy, sales, and customer relationships. Her business supplies organically grown produce to more than 700 customers across Gauteng while creating employment opportunities for young people, especially women. Zwane’s vision aligns with her father’s legacy, emphasizing climate-smart farming practices that balance productivity with responsible land stewardship. She views agriculture as a key opportunity to enhance food security and foster resilient local economies. The contributions of women like Mahloele and Zwane highlight broader themes of leadership and resilience in South Africa. On Women’s Day, which marks the anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, many women in politics, business, and academia reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and the challenges that remain. Busi Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa, noted that women often lead differently, bringing collaborative styles, emotional intelligence, and long-term relationship-building to leadership roles. According to the Women in Business 2026 report, South Africa has 47.3% women in senior management, surpassing the global average of 32.9%. Mavuso emphasized that the difference in how women lead adds value to leadership teams, particularly in times of geopolitical uncertainty and social division. However, she warned against underestimating the resilience women have developed in male-dominated environments, noting that this resilience comes at a cost, women are often judged more harshly, earn less for comparable work, and face a long road to closing the gender pay gap. She argued that the modern challenge for women is not just increasing their numbers in leadership positions but creating inclusive environments where they do not need to conform to outdated molds. Lindiwe Zulu, former minister of social development, reflected on the generational changes in women’s roles, comparing her life to that of her grandmother, who worked as a domestic worker in Johannesburg during apartheid. Zulu acknowledged the systemic oppression and injustice faced by previous generations while recognizing the progress made. Her grandmother’s quiet resistance to inequality serves as a foundation for Zulu’s advocacy for women’s empowerment and social justice. As South Africa continues to navigate its path toward gender equality, the stories of entrepreneurs like Mahloele and Zwane underscore the importance of diverse leadership. Their approaches to business and agriculture reflect a blend of traditional values and innovative thinking, contributing to both economic growth and social development. The ongoing efforts to create inclusive workplaces and support women in leadership roles are critical to the nation’s future.
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