Beyond the boys' club: Finding the authentic African female leader within

My MBA journey was a natural progression in my commitment to continuous learning – a core value that drives me. I wanted to enhance both my technical expertise and leadership capabilities. For me, the MBA represented another essential tool in my leadership arsenal, helping me bridge the gap between where I was and where I aspired to be as a leader.

During my research into different business schools, I consistently encountered a troubling narrative: that pursuing an MBA would inevitably destroy your personal life. This didn’t resonate with me at all. My career, family and social life are fundamental values that I wasn’t willing to sacrifice. When I discovered Henley Business School Africa, their messaging was refreshingly different. While they maintained the same commitment to academic excellence and discipline, they also advocated for a family-friendly approach. I was immediately sold.

The MBA reshaped my entire perspective on leadership and business management. While I expected and gained significant technical knowledge, what truly surprised me was the profound personal development I experienced. The depth of self-awareness I gained and its impact on my leadership approach has been transformative. I now understand that leadership is fundamentally a function of self. It is intrinsically connected to who you know yourself to be and what you believe about yourself. Self-belief directly influences your leadership and management style, and the Personal Development modules became the most valuable part of my MBA journey.

The MBA helped me realise that leadership has a lot to do with coaching. This insight clarified my own leadership approach and led me to embrace coaching as a career path.

The programme encouraged the visibility and authenticity of the African female leader within me. Before, my mental model of strong leadership was predominantly White and male, and to some extent, African Black and male. The MBA programme gave me the courage to develop and own leadership and career-coaching frameworks specifically designed for African female leaders. This has become an exciting and meaningful journey for me.

My early experiences with fundamental business operations and people management continue to influence my leadership approach today. I was born and raised in Soweto in a household of entrepreneurs. My family operated several businesses in retail and transportation, including a taxi business. During high school, I helped manage these enterprises – responsibilities I initially viewed as mere chores but now recognise as invaluable early leadership training. I managed taxi drivers, handled payroll, and monitored performance. I learned about fleet management, inventory control, and supply chain principles. I now understand how privileged I was to gain such practical business experience so early in life.

Given the nature of our family businesses, I was typically surrounded by men – often the only female in the group. It was an environment infused with an entrepreneurial spirit that encouraged hard work and a strong work ethic. Despite being in such a male-dominated space, I felt safe, respected, and valued. It was truly a joy growing up in such a dynamic, enterprising environment.

I was raised by a village, and I often reflect on the richness of my upbringing – richness measured not in rands and cents, but in love, support, and how everyone prioritised my success. My grandmother, mother, father, uncles, and aunties all conspired to influence my life positively. I could write a book about each of them. I’m grateful for this varied and committed personal board of directors who played instrumental roles in my development.

I remain a perpetual student, learning daily. My professional and personal journey continues to expose me to formidable leaders who inspire and influence me. I could name each one, but we’d run out of pages.

The Quick Q&A

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I unwind by watching tennis, enjoying movies with compelling storylines, or diving into a good book.

What is your passion – in business and in life?

I’m passionate about people development, both professionally and personally. My measure of success is my contribution to positive transformation in others’ lives, whether in small or significant ways.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

I would tell her, ‘You are brilliant, Sisi. Your God created you in Her image. Let no one tell you otherwise.’

Name a memorable book you have read. How did it affect you?

I can think of two such books. I’m drawn to well-researched books about human psychology and transformation. Think Again by Adam Grant liberated me to embrace changing my mind. While I hold my convictions firmly, I’m ready to loosen my grip when faced with new learning because learning and re-learning is one of my core values. The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene demonstrates how powerfully self-belief influences how we show up in the world – in our homes, workplaces, and relationships.

What one thing would you like to change about yourself?

Initially, I’m tempted to say I’d change my imperfections. However, I’ve learned that when I lean into and embrace my imperfections, I gain deep self-insight that enables growth and course correction. Therefore, I’d like to become more courageous in accepting my imperfections, because that’s where my greatest growth opportunities reside.

What advice would you give to others considering doing an MBA at Henley?

Go for it. It’s one of the best investments you can make for yourself, your family, and any organisation you’re part of – whether as a corporate professional or entrepreneur.