Empowering Women in Energy: A Step Towards Transforming Leadership in South Africa

South Africa’s energy sector, despite its vital role in the country’s economy, remains largely untransformed, with women significantly underrepresented in leadership positions. This underrepresentation persists despite the growing recognition of the need for alternative economic models that promote a green economy and empower women as central drivers of positive change. 

To address these challenges, a programme developed by the Wits Business School was launched last year to close the skills gap in the renewable energy industry and accelerate the growth of female leadership within the sector. The initiative is led by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) in collaboration with the Gender Diversity Working Group (GDWG), the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA), and the Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA). 

Gcina Mthembu, an HR professional, is one of this year’s participants in the 8-month online programme, now in its second iteration and showing a 20% growth from the 2023 intake. While women held 32% of senior management roles globally in 2022—the highest ever recorded—women still remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Gcina recognises the importance of women in leadership, making programmes like this essential for addressing inequality and positioning organizations for success.  

“When women are empowered to lead, everyone benefits. I believe some of the immediate impacts of such a programme are increased productivity, enhanced collaboration, an intentional drive towards change, better company policies and an overall positive impact on employee engagement,” said Gcina, HR Advisor at ENERTRAG South Africa. 

The programme focuses on key principles such as self-development, understanding business models, strategic management through design thinking, managing people, and leadership, with several electives that appeal to the broader sector. 

Mercia Grimbeek, a previous graduate of the ‘GWEC Women In Wind Global Leadership’ initiative and Director: Head of Project Development at ENERTRAG South Africa, also emphasises the importance of such initiatives. She believes that the programme is crucial for addressing the lack of transformation in South Africa’s energy sector and will promote conscious decision-making, empowering women within organisations to take on leadership roles in the industry. 

“The opportunities are there for those who are ready and willing to put in the work required to grow,” concluded Mthembu, reflecting on her experience. “This programme has afforded me the chance to network and gain an in-depth understanding of the industry, which has been invaluable in my first year in the renewables sector.” 

The programme covers a broad range of topics, including Self-Development and Personal Mastery through Emotional Intelligence, Business Ethics and Corporate Governance, Strategic Management, Leadership Skills, Diversity, Transformation and Change, Managing People, Business Models, Operations Management, and Financial Management.