Businesswomen kick back with conference fun
Zululand professionals gather at the annual ZCCI businesswomen's conference.
PROFESSIONALS from all over Zululand let their hair down at this year’s jolly Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI) Businesswomen’s’ Conference in Richards Bay on Wednesday.
Speeches from prominent business leaders were followed by fun and games in the form of laughter therapy, dancing and lucky draws.
Opening the event, Ubuhle HR Director Liza Gresse said the annual conference serves as a perfect opportunity to network and support fellow local businesses.
‘If we, as business, stand together and mentor Zululand’s Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), we will start to create wealth for the whole industry.’
Richards Bay Coal Terminal CEO Nosipho Siwisa-Damasane advised women to stand up for their needs in a workplace and embrace their achievements.
‘Women feel too apologetic to ask for salary increases from their bosses, whereas men are far more forthcoming with their demands.
‘The last time I sat down with a woman who claimed her worth was in 1999.
‘We underestimate the power we have and we should start copying a few things from men regarding what we’re worth.’
Siwisa-Damasane said RBCT has actively worked towards uplifting women for this reason.
‘When I first arrived in Richards Bay in 2012 to join RBCT, we did not have women in our operations.
‘We implemented a women’s development programme and since then, women now working in the field have proven just how capable they are.
‘Sadly, few organisations are led by women, but we will strive to become leaders and make headlines after headlines,’ said Siwisa-Damasane.
ZCCI Richards Bay’s Vice-Chairman Barbara van Rooyen invited guests to become members of the chamber.
‘The purpose of the chamber is to stand as a collective voice for business.
‘The more members we have, the louder our message.
‘Our vision is to ensure Zululand business voices are heard through liasing with government and foreign investors and to foster an environment conducive to growth.’
