Dangerous times, calls for dangerous women
” At some point of our lives we have all been underestimated because we look like we are unable to complete the task or just because of People’s perspective. We are viewed as weak based on our physical appearance than how intelligent we are. Even though the view of women has changed over the years, we as women are still not at the point I would like to see us in. “
“Womens leadership value and talents are steadily being unlocked. However, progress is slow. There are a few female leaders in executive management positions, but not nearly as a representation of the population split, of which over 51% are females” says Tarina Vlok.
Even though there is undoubtedly still a long way to go before there is greater equality. Forek Institute Of Technology is ready to educate and train those who will pave a way for others.
Joining Forek Institute Of Technology is like walking into a man’s world where you will have to accept that you are a woman in the opposite genders territory and then you will have to work harder and longer hours and dedicate yourself to be the best at what you are doing. Do not look back. Live everyday and plan for tomorrow.
As National Women’s month ends, I have been reflecting on what it means to be an independent woman in today’s world. Growing up was not easy. I watched my mother try to raise two young females with no father figure in the house. I watched her work as hard as a man trying to put food on the table and from that, I saw a powerful dangerous woman that can thrive on her own. A woman who made things happen regardless and that drove me into female independency.
Years later my list of talents became longer than my arm: Poetess, author, designer, music producer, actress and they go on… As you can imagine. I have ran into my fair share of roadblocks and milestones along the way. There are all kinds of challenges that come from being a woman in a men’s world, but I refuse to let them keep me down.
Here are a few lessons that I hold close to my heart and I hope will help you to:
The first thing you have to do is to accept that you are in a men’s world and then work hard, give it your all. Be a self-starter. I am a netball coach not by profession but by community work and I always tell my team that, all I’m going to ask from them is to be coachable and give me 110% in return and that’s also what I’ve tried to do with my personal projects. Whether I’m preparing for a show or designing my sister’s clothing line, I know that If I take direction and give everything I have. The project will be a success.
Finding what makes you happy had to be your top priority. I learners at a young age: if you love what you do. You will always succeed because you will love the job. Happiness is indeed infectious.
My biggest desire is if we women supported each other more. I’ve noticed that women get very competitive with one another. Whatever happened to team work? Helping each other? Advising one another? Our sisterhood has drowned.
In retrospec, there are alot of things I would have done differently- storm, yes! For example, when I started organising events at Valencia Combined 5years ago, it was all new to me. I did not know anything about conducting an event and yes, I almost failed a couple of times. It was very challenging.
Thankfully, Valencia Combined school hung in there with me and gave another chance, intact multiple chances. When I finally learner what the learners needed, my brand developed and grew to events funded by private sponsors.
But before my success, I had to learn the lesson the hard way. Looking back, I know God put me through trials and tribulations like those because they taught me something and made me a better and stronger person. There was a reason for them and I have no shame.
You cannot look back, you cannot look forward. You have to live everyday and plan for tomorrow. Live in the moment and enjoy what you have right now. This minute of this day and remember my friends: Everything happens for a reason.
Boys and girls. Welcome to Forek Institute of Technology and I hope you enjoy your stay.
–Jienx.x
C.S Theledi
