“Shattering Ceilings: Conversations with the Women Shaping Today”
In this article you'll find conversations with esteemed female leaders from around the world. Dive into their professional journeys, glean valuable insights and advice, and let their stories illuminate your path with 'Dear Future Me.'
01.
Cwenga Koyana
Co-Founder of Talitha Together & UCT Master Student
SOUTH AFRICA
Cwenga is a dynamic and socially conscious entrepreneur with a vision to revolutionize the South African Entertainment industry while uplifting pregnant teens across Africa through education and entrepreneurship. Currently pursuing a Master's in Philosophy in Digital Curation at the prestigious University of Cape Town (UCT), she already holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performing Arts, as well as a BA Honours in Film and Television Studies, both earned from UCT. As the Co-Founder of Talitha Together, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering teen mothers in Africa, Cwenga's impactful work garnered recognition with the esteemed 2022 Dream For Change winning project title at the UNESCO and Women@Dior Global conference held in Paris, France. Her dedication and achievements were further celebrated when she was honored as one of UCT’s Inspirational Graduates in both March 2022 and March 2023.
In conversation with Chwenga
Can you share your educational and career journey thus far and any key milestones that significantly shaped your path?
Having attended all-girls schools for both primary and secondary education, student leadership was integral to my journey. In primary school, I served as Head Girl, and in high school, I held the position of Head of Patrol Care, responsible for the Head Girls, Diversity, and Peer Counseling Committees. During my fourth year at university, I ventured into the working world through part-time internships in news podcasting and VoiceOver fields while simultaneously beginning my social entrepreneurial career with Talitha Together. A significant takeaway was the influence of female heads of school from my nursing schooling to my first year of Master's studies, shaping my path in leadership within education and entrepreneurship.
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As a South Africa female, describe some of the barriers you faced in pursuing your educational and career aspirations.
As a South African woman attending private, independent schools, I've been privileged not to encounter barriers such as limited access to quality education due to socioeconomic factors. However, navigating workplace dynamics and balancing family responsibilities have posed challenges in advancing my social entrepreneurial aspirations.
What advice would you give to the next wave of South African girls, with aspirations like yours?
1. Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and believe you deserve to pursue your dreams, regardless of obstacles.
2. Education is Key: Prioritize education and seek opportunities for academic excellence as it opens doors to achieve your goals.
3. Be Resilient: Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay resilient in the face of adversity!
4. Seek Mentorship and Support: Surround yourself with mentors and supportive networks for guidance and encouragement as you navigate you educational and career path.
5. Embrace Opportunities: Be open to seeing opportunities as they arise, even if they appear as daunting or unconditional. Take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace new experiences that can help you grow and advance towards your aspirations.
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Finish this sentence, “Dear Future Me…”
Dear Future Me, I hope you've achieved your dreams, shattered barriers, and inspired others to reach for the stars because the bottom is overcrowded.