In celebration of Women’s Month and the University of Johannesburg‘s (UJ) 20th anniversary, UJ Sport and the Soweto Library and Information Centre hosted a discussion titled “Breaking Barriers: A 20-Year Journey of Women in Sports.” The event brought together influential women in the sports world to share their experiences and emphasise the importance of empowering the next generation of female leaders.
The discussion featured a powerful panel, including UJ alumna and South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) 1st Vice President, Ms. Lwandile Simelane; former Banyana Banyana captain, Ms. Amanda Dlamini; and UJ Sport Senior Director, Ms. Nomsa Mahlangu. They were joined by UJ coaches, managers, and student-athletes who have all been and are currently instrumental in advancing women’s roles in sports.
Insights from the top
Ms. Mahlangu set the tone with a call to action. “Today we celebrate each other; we drink from each other’s cup,” she said, highlighting the need for women to unite and help guide each other to become accountable leaders. She stressed that seasoned professionals in the industry should serve as a source of hope and guidance for young, emerging female leaders.
Football analyst and commentator Amanda Dlamini shared her journey from playing street football in a small town in KwaZulu-Natal to becoming a professional player. She spoke about how the sport helped her grow as a leader and how education boosted her confidence. “Football has helped me grow as a leader, and school added a confidence boost for me to be able to express and articulate myself better,” she explained. Dlamini also touched on the societal issues that often hinder women’s development in sports.
SASCOC’s Simelane encouraged young women to believe in their dreams, no matter how humble their beginnings. She shared her own experiences of starting from the bottom, from washing team kits to organising events and carrying boxes. “Those experiences shape people to serve better,” she said. “I did those chores as a young woman in sports many years ago, and today I serve on some of the highest governing bodies in sport in the country.” Simelane’s message was clear: volunteering and a commitment to service will pay off.
Adding to the conversation, former national netball team (SPAR Proteas) captain Bongiwe Msomi emphasised the crucial role of mentorship. “Just like men, women require guidance to develop in sport and any other industry,” she stated. Msomi highlighted that while talent is important, education opens doors that talent alone cannot. She urged student-athletes to finish their studies, stressing that “academic wisdom” combined with athletic talent provides greater credibility and opportunity. She ended with a special plea to current leaders: “Please give young women the opportunities to learn and be in the positions that you occupy when you retire.” Msomi also gave a special mention to her former coach, Norma Plummer, for her mentorship on and off the court.
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