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Women's Day is a significant annual event that celebrates the power, resilience, and achievements of women around the world. In South Africa, Women's Day holds a special place in the hearts of its citizens as it commemorates the historic Women's March of 1956. This march saw 20,000 women from all walks of life unite in a powerful demonstration against unjust pass laws during the apartheid era. The bravery and determination of these women paved the way for future generations, and their legacy continues to inspire and motivate women in South Africa and beyond. In this article, we will delve into the significance of Women's Day, explore the progress of women in various industries, and highlight the role of women in fintech, with a special focus on DoshFX, the new South African crypto exchange.
Women's Day: A Brief History
Women's Day, celebrated on the 9th of August each year, is a public holiday in South Africa. Its origins can be traced back to the Women's March of 1956, which took place in Pretoria. On that fateful day, women from all walks of life, representing different racial and cultural backgrounds, joined forces to protest against the oppressive pass laws imposed by the apartheid government. These laws required non-white citizens to carry identification documents, known as passes, at all times and restricted their movements within the country.
Led by brave activists such as Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, the march sent shockwaves throughout the nation. The women marched peacefully, singing protest songs and carrying petitions that demanded an end to the pass laws. Despite facing violent opposition from the authorities, their courage and determination prevailed, leaving an indelible mark on the struggle for freedom and equality.
Women's Month: A Celebration of Empowerment
In South Africa, Women's Day is not confined to a single day of commemoration. Instead, it serves as the centerpiece of Women's Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. Throughout August, various events, exhibitions, workshops, and conferences are held across the country to honor women's contributions in different spheres of life.
Women's Month provides a platform for acknowledging the achievements of women in fields traditionally dominated by men. It serves as a reminder that gender should not be a barrier to success, and that women have a vital role to play in shaping the future of South Africa.
Women Finance and Technology: Breaking Barriers and Driving Innovation
The world of finance and technology, often referred to as fintech, has traditionally been male-dominated. However, women in South Africa are increasingly breaking barriers and making their mark in this rapidly evolving industry. Fintech offers a unique opportunity for women to challenge stereotypes, contribute their skills and expertise, and drive innovation in a sector that is transforming the way we manage our finances. We want to take a moment to celebrate the brave women making their mark in Africa:
Albertina Kekana: CEO of Royal Bafokeng Holding Pty
Albertina has been chief for more than 20 years with experience in executive and non-executive roles. With a broad experience in financial services, asset management, investment banking and business leadership development. She holds a commerce degree from UCT and an advanced management training from Harvard.
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Mpumi Madisa: CEO Bidvest Group
At the young age of 40, Mpumi took the helm of Bidvest Group in 2020 becoming the only black female CEO in top 450 Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed companies. Since taking leadership mid-pandemic (2020) she has grown the company significantly boosting profit by 15% and growing the renewables and alternative energy segment. Passionate about women empowerment, she has worked on creating an enabling environment for women to be nurtured and rise.
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe: CEO of Fidelity Bank
Since taking the helm of Fidelity Bank in 2021, she bagged a banker of the year award at the Leadership Annual Conference and Awards. Renowned as being a transformational leader, with more than three decades of experience, Nneka has earned for strategic banking stripes.?
She holds an LLM from King's College.?
DoshFX: Empowering Women in Crypto Trading
One notable player in the South African fintech landscape is DoshFX, a new crypto exchange that is making waves in the industry. DoshFX is not only a platform for buying and selling cryptocurrencies but also a catalyst for empowering women to participate in the world of crypto trading. As a new and innovative crypto exchange, DoshFX recognizes the importance of inclusivity and aims to provide equal opportunities for women to engage in this high-risk, high-reward market. By offering user-friendly interfaces, educational resources, and a supportive community, DoshFX is breaking down barriers and encouraging women to take control of their financial future.
Challenges and Opportunities: Navigating the Fintech Landscape
While significant progress has been made, women in fintech still face certain challenges. Gender bias, unequal pay, and lack of representation in leadership positions continue to be obstacles that need to be addressed. However, these challenges also present opportunities for change and growth.
Fintech companies have a responsibility to create inclusive environments that promote diversity and equality. By fostering a culture of support, mentorship, and equal opportunities, these companies can attract and retain talented women, ensuring their long-term success and the growth of the industry as a whole.
Celebrating Women's Day: How You Can Get Involved
Women's Day is not only a time for reflection but also a call to action. Here are some ways you can get involved and celebrate the power and achievements of women:
Want to start a journey to financial empowerment? Click on the image below and leave your details in the form. A financial advisor will be in contact with you to help you get started! Remember crypto trading is high risk, take precautions. DoshFX is an Auth FSP. Ts&Cs Apply!