[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]By Zimkhitha Mathunjwa

I had the distinct pleasure of attending the two-day Standard Bank Top Women Conference this past week, and saying I had an amazing time would be a gross understatement. As we officially enter the last quarter of the year, that familiar sense of fatigue begins to settle in, but this event was a refreshing reset.

Being in a room with women delegates from across the continent, gathered in Johannesburg’s economic hub, was a treat. Hearing women share how they’ve overcome challenges, whether shaped by their upbringing or the unpredictable journey of life, was deeply inspiring. By Day 2, I found myself reflecting on the power of storytelling, the importance of acknowledging one another, and the truth that nothing is insurmountable when you have the right support, resources, and access.

Much like The Cut’s ‘How I Get It Done’ series, which I love for its behind-the-scenes look at how women juggle leadership, family, and personal growth, this event offered a similar window into the lives of women across sectors. Whilst it was a chance to fill our cups and drink from each other’s wells of wisdom, it was also a chance for us to reckon with the stark realities we are faced with as individuals and as a society.

The event was filled with many moments of intentional networking, and equally, we were gifted moments of powerful pauses, where we could let the words do the work of igniting the fire in our bellies. Here are three powerful takeaways that stuck with me, practical yet deeply personal tips for women entrepreneurs and leaders looking to thrive:

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• Own your humanity and growth spots

Women are no longer playing small. We’re showing up fully, embracing our growth areas not as failures but as stepping stones. As one of the esteemed panellists said, “Supporting women-owned businesses isn’t charity, it’s smart economics. When women succeed, communities thrive and industries transform.”

• Reframe compliance and technology as catalysts

While compliance is often seen as a barrier, we were reminded that it is actually a passport to markets, funding, and growth. Similarly, technology isn’t the enemy; it’s the enabler. Women must equip themselves with the skills to build future-fit businesses. Gen AI and automation can free up time for strategic thinking and scaling.

• Invest in continuous learning and sisterhood

Education doesn’t have to mean formal qualifications. It can be reading more, joining programmes, or unlearning outdated mindsets. The call to expose young girls to STEM early is urgent. And as women, we must stop being barriers to each other’s progress. We need to hold space, support, and lift each other up.

The presence of male allies in the room was also encouraging. Their intentional support signals a shift toward a more equitable reality. But we must also ensure we don’t leave the boy child behind; gender equity must be inclusive.

As we look ahead to Q4, I’m filled with gratitude for spaces like these that reignite our drive to innovate, build, and lead. The concept of sisterhood, multifaceted and powerful, was the heartbeat of this event. And it’s a privilege to be part of it.

Zimkhitha Mathunjwa is a strategic and data-driven digital marketing leader with over a decade of experience across B2B and B2C environments. A Chartered Marketer (SA), she has led high-impact digital transformation initiatives, driving revenue growth through omnichannel strategies and customer-centric innovation

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