Professor Mayekiso made these remarks during Women’s Month events at the Mbombela and Siyabuswa campuses, where she acknowledged UMP Chancellor, Justice Mandisa Maya, who will become the first woman Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa on 1 September 2024.
The Vice-Chancellor praised Justice Maya, describing her appointment as a testament to the strength and leadership of women in positions of influence.
She emphasised the ongoing need for progress in the fight for equality, calling for the eradication of gender-based violence, the dismantling of patriarchy, and the promotion of financial independence for women.
"Hard-fought gains have been achieved because the women who came before us never stopped pressing for equality and equity."
UMP Women's Month was celebrated under the theme: Women, Ignite Your Light
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Her address urged women to continue advocating for workplace equity, supporting mentorship and coaching programmes, and creating safe spaces across all environments.
"May our lights burn brightly, and may the world be better and more peaceful because we carried the torch of equality. We all have that spark inside of us. We must ignite it to benefit from the opportunities created by UMP, and even to create opportunities for ourselves. Igniting one's light begins with embracing one's true self."
Professor Mayekiso further encouraged women to recognise that another's success does not diminish their own.
"Their light makes our shine even brighter. There is a spark in all of us; we just need to ignite it and let it shine. We all have potential waiting to be unleashed. When we ignite our lights, we harness our strengths, while also acknowledging areas for growth. Engage in deep self-reflection, recognise both your positive and negative traits, claim your rightful space, and envision a just and equitable future."
She highlighted the importance of authenticity in igniting one’s internal light, stressing that authenticity requires women to be genuine, not mere copies of others.
Women were urged to advocate for workplace equity and support mentorship and coaching programmes.
"Igniting our light starts with embracing our true selves. Authenticity fosters deeper, healthier relationships. When approached with sincerity, it boosts self-confidence and self-esteem by projecting a self-assured image. As women, we should embody our true selves, drawing on our values, beliefs, principles, and morals."
This year, the Women's Month events were celebrated under the theme: Women, Ignite Your Light.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesele, added that to ignite one’s light, women must surround themselves with those who bear light.
"When you ignite your light, some people will not appreciate what you are doing. Some will not support you. Don’t wait for supporters; you will never find them. When you are pushing forward, there will always be forces trying to pull you in another direction. To ignite your light, you need the company of light-bearers."
Professor Davhana-Maselesele encouraged women to break free from societal expectations.
Professor Davhana-Maselesele noted that resistance and opposition are often part of the journey towards greatness, urging women to remain steadfast in their purpose. She encouraged women to break free from societal expectations, embrace resilience in adversity, and emphasised the importance of positive self-talk.
"Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can support and uplift you. Do not wait for approval or validation from others."
Ms Hazel Mammeshi from the Siyabuswa Campus delivered a powerful message of encouragement, focusing on the role of women as leaders in their homes and communities.
"As a child, whenever I made a mistake, people would blame my mother. If your children misbehave, society often points the finger at the woman in the house. This is because you are a leader, and as a leader, you are expected to set direction, maintain order, and motivate those around you."
Ms Mammeshi urged women to embrace their brilliance, persevere through adversity, and never allow their light to be dimmed by the insecurities of others.
"Women, ignite your light and shine bright! Let no one extinguish or dim your light," she concluded.
The events featured vibrant musical performances, poetry, and traditional dance by UMP staff and students, further underscoring the theme of unity and shared heritage. Professor Eurika Jansen van Vuuren, a lecturer in Performing and Creative Arts, entertained the audience with song.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by ChrispIPhoto and supplied.