Celebrating South Africa’s Women’s Day at BCB Group

We’re thrilled to celebrate National Women’s Day in South Africa today. Here we showcase our superwomen in our South African office and understand what working at BCB Group means to them.

Thandi Mahlangu, Senior Customer Success Representative

“As a woman in BCB, I have the power to shine bright like a diamond one day and be vulnerable the next, without ever losing my value. I am surrounded by strong queens who support each other and celebrate victories as their own. My voice is always heard, recognized, and respected, any time or day. I choose BCB over and over again.”

Koketso Kobe, Financial Accountant

“Today, we celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of women in South Africa and across the globe. To me, being a woman means embodying a spirit of courage, perseverance and unity. To all the mothers, sisters and daughters: your unwavering love and dedication make the world a better place. Let us continue to support, uplift and empower each other everyday. Together, we can build a society where every woman has the opportunity to flourish!”

Roswyn Finlay, Treasury Operations Senior Analyst

“In staying true to Woman’s Day in South Africa, I would like to use the quote of the iconic artist Miriam Makeba. She said: “Girls are the future mothers of society, and it is important that we focus on their wellbeing.” Girls will become women and women will be the nurturers of young girls and boys that will become the artists, the entrepreneurs, leader,s and influencers of society. A mother/woman has a glorious burden to mould the young society. It’s important we recognise how important it is to teach, look after, and give the right tools to young girls.

It’s important to recognise what the woman before me did, those who fought for the right to make my choices, to recognise the women activists against apartheid, the fight against racism and sexism and to always remember how far women have come so we know to never go back.”

Samantha Letshedi, Senior Financial Accountant

“Women’s Day is a reminder that women are deserving of equal rights and opportunities. To me, it’s the celebration of the strength of a woman and her ability to thrive even in difficult circumstances.

As a woman at BCB you are heard, recognised and acknowledged for your efforts, provided with endless opportunities for growth and work in an environment conducive for/to learning. You’re seen beyond being just an employee, but appreciated as a person as well.

If I were to give advice to other women, it would be to unlearn the factors that result in you harbouring feelings of animosity towards other women.

My favourite quote is from Rupi Kaur, who says: “Women have been starved of space for so long that when one of us finally makes it into the arena, we’re made to feel there isn’t enough room for us all… That if we’re not careful, another woman might come along and take our spot, but space doesn’t work like that… Look at all the men in the arena, getting stronger as their numbers multiply. More women in the arena, means more room for all of us to rise.””

Klaryn Svorinic, Senior CS Onboarding Analyst

“Being a woman in general can come with its challenges, being a mom adds additional weight. My time at BCB has been so supported and refreshing. Having worked in the Finance sector for well over a decade, I have both witnessed and experienced male dominance and lack of support and empathy for women and mothers in the workplace. I am so happy to wholeheartedly say I have found a place of work that supports me, where women are encouraging each other instead of bringing each other down and friendships are real. My advice to a fellow woman is, never settle for less, always choose yourself and your happiness, what’s meant for you will gravitate toward you.”

Sibongile Gamede, Payment Operations Senior Analyst

“ONE GATE!” which means s long as you are a woman, we are all going to pass through the same gate” – Agnes Gamede (My Grandmother)

“My gran has always said this to me and as I grow I get to release that life is a spinning wheel and we are all likely to experience the same things as our parents did, so remember the old are wiser, respect and seek advice from them. Women should always empower each other.”

Sibongile Sambo, Senior EDD Analyst

“Just like a rose’s thorns, a woman is unique, powerful, protective and fierce. Just like the rose’s petals, a woman is calm, delicate, gentle and nurturing. Just like the scent of the rose, our impact is memorable. That’s the Power of a Woman! May we continue to build, support and embrace each other! Happy Women’s Day.”

To all our hard working, resilient and courageous South African ladies, today we celebrate YOU on our National Women’s day – May this day remind you of your worth, your power, and the limitless potential you hold. Here’s to celebrating you today and every day.

I’m proud to have you all on the BCB South Africa team and making such a big difference. Keep shining ladies!

Much love and appreciation to you all!

Greg Shiers – MD of South Africa and Executive Director – Operations