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“I come as one but I stand as ten thousand.”– Maya Angelou
These words resonate with many of us. I certainly consider myself blessed as I have had the opportunity to grow up around many strong women in my family. Both my departed maternal and paternal grandmothers were remarkable, resilient, devoted, affectionate and gracious women. They had strong personalities and boldly voiced their opinions on various issues. Even years of oppression failed to suppress them.
My mother is equally a force to be reckoned with – a phenomenal woman and a visionary leader par excellence. She is socially, devotionally and politically dedicated.
This solid matriarchal background acted as a catalyst for my formative years and contributed immensely to shaping my femininity, positive outlook, self-sustaining and collaborative approach to life.
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The task of raising children is mainly undertaken by the woman in the family.
However, the mother is also concerned with the wellbeing of all her family members. It is hence critical for women to have strong social support systems. We need such partnerships to break the yoke of oppression, as articulated in Claudia Jones’ theory, which states that a connection exists between various types of oppression, specifically classism, racism and sexism. Strong, collaborative efforts are needed to defeat gender-based violence and femicide.
WE STAND ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS
As English physicist Isaac Newton explicitly stated: “If I have seen further, it was by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
This quotation is equally true for South African women, as we were privileged to have over 20 000 women who marched in an orderly manner to the Union Buildings in Pretoria from all parts of the country in 1956, to protest against legislation aimed at tightening the apartheid government’s restrictions on the movement of black women in urban areas.
August 9 is a significant day in South Africa, as it commemorates that historic day when women fought for their freedom.
Progressive laws in South Africa have now enabled more women than before to serve in high-ranking positions in government, yet women are still disproportionately burdened by the realities of gender inequalities, gender stereotypes and structural violence.
South Africa has established the Commission for Gender Equality in terms of section 187 of the Constitution to eradicate gender discrimination, protect women’s human rights and make recommendations to Parliament on these issues. South Africa has also ratified the international Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women. However, women are still highly marginalised.
The sociological dynamics of our country demand effective implementation of legislative frameworks to achieve gender equity and improve representation. Women also need to be protected against "glass cliff," forms of discrimination.
FEMALE ROLE MODELS IN THE CLASSROOM
Research has shown that, consistent with international literature, women remain underrepresented in educational leadership roles in South Africa. It was also found that women tend to have a mothering style of leadership. They are more open and are perceived to be approachable by students and fellow teachers.
READ: Tiny Petunia Mona | Use the Constitution to enhance the ability to assert yourself in the workplace
Significant strides have been made in ensuring universal access to education for everyone. In any educational setting, it is important for a teacher to be a good communicator. At the beginning of a term/semester, most students are anxious about their new environment and less confident in their abilities. Communicating with them about their expectations enables them to open up.
The teacher needs to be a good listener and observer to pick up on what is not said. Encouraging students to express their views and applying numerous teaching methods helps build their confidence.
In my own experience, patience is also important, while treating each student as an individual enabled me to be empathetic.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF COLLABORATION
Collaboration is crucial to draw on others’ experiences and enhance one’s own growth. During my time as a university lecturer, I would frequently interact, collaborate and network with colleagues such as professors and doctors who had advanced in their careers academically. At the time, I was still studying towards a doctorate in sociology. This bolstered me to work even harder and I later obtained a PhD and was promoted to a senior lectureship.
It is crucial for teachers to learn continuously so that they can impart correct and relevant information.
ACTIONS THAT WOMEN CAN TAKE TO UPLIFT THEMSELVES AND OTHER WOMEN
“Not everybody can be famous, but everybody can be great, because greatness is determined by service,” stated Martin Luther King Jr.
“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle,” observed US priest James Keller. Positive and constructive feedback boosts self-confidence and morale. It makes employees enjoy their work and motivates them to go the extra mile.
It is important to see other women as role models, rather than rivals. Support groups are also crucial and reading spiritual literature is an effective way of expanding knowledge and transforming oneself. Nourishing the mind, body and soul is important. Be grateful, build trust, share frustrations and listen actively.
Do not downplay your talents to win approval. “Those who want the best for you want you to be your best,” said US chat show host Oprah Winfrey. Always strive for excellence.
Make a conscious decision to uplift other women as you ascend. “We rise by lifting others,” wrote US lawyer Robert Ingersoll.
A PhD support group played a pivotal role in my doctoral studies. Various scholars would share their experiences to encourage us. On graduating, I was also given the opportunity to share my experiences on my own journey. As a leader, I always emulate those who have made me feel empowered and inspired me to exceed expectations. Use the platform you have responsibly, be considerate and serve diligently. Be transparent, collaborative and define success as a collective achievement.
WOMEN AS COMMUNITY LEADERS
Sustainable development requires active community engagement. Women play a fundamental role in this regard. They have the potential to raise their voices on various issues of critical importance. Community centres and other institutions are significant platforms for information dissemination.
READ: Nomhle Canca | Young people must get into good trouble to get South Africa to the promised land
As children growing up in the township of Giyani in Limpopo, we had an effective community library that helped enhance our knowledge and develop our reading skills. This proved very beneficial later, at university and college.
Empower women by providing opportunities for them to pursue their studies in order to close the gap of inequalities.
Dr. Mona holds a PhD in sociology. She writes in her personal capacity
