MasterDrive is thrilled to announce the inclusion of four new partners—Castrol, FNB, Messe Frankfurt, and MUA Insurance Acceptances—into the annual Women with Drive event. This initiative is dedicated to the empowerment and upliftment of women in the automotive and mobility sectors, areas traditionally dominated by men. The collaboration aims to highlight the vital role women play in these industries and to inspire further growth and success.
Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, expressed his enthusiasm for the event and the involvement of these prestigious partners. “The interest and support shown in Women with Drive is testament to the power of the event within the mobility and automotive sector, which is often a male-dominated industry,” Herbert said. “Women with Drive started eight years ago and has grown significantly since, including moving to its new venue at the Festival of Motoring (FoM). MasterDrive embarked on this initiative to be a source of knowledge, inspiration, and support for women as they grow and thrive within this sector. We are excited to welcome our partners and look forward to reaching even greater heights together this year.”
Castrol: Powering Transformation and Growth
Castrol’s involvement in the Women with Drive initiative aligns with its commitment to transformation within the industry. Siyasanga Mbolekwa, Channel Sales Manager at Castrol, shared her personal journey within the company, highlighting how Women with Drive resonates with Castrol’s values. “’Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ aligns with Castrol’s transformation goals,” Mbolekwa explained. “My personal experience is testament to this, starting as an executive assistant but quickly progressing to my current role when my interest to grow was recognized. Women with Drive is an opportunity to encourage women within this sector to drive their own success.”
Mbolekwa’s message to women in the industry is clear: take control of your career and seek out opportunities for growth. “I encourage women to put themselves out there and take the steering wheel in their own success. If you are fortunate to have a female leader by your side, take the hand they hold out to you.”
FNB: Building Shared Prosperity
Joining as a headline partner, FNB brings its values of shared prosperity and support for women-led businesses to the Women with Drive initiative. Linda Cele, Product Head: Key Accounts and Partnerships at FNB, emphasized the importance of women in South Africa’s economy. “A core value of FNB and WesBank is building shared prosperity. Women play a critical role in our economy, accounting for 47% of SMEs in South Africa. We pride ourselves in being part of an initiative that truly supports the growth of women.”
Cele noted that as women continue to participate in the economy, it is crucial for the industry to address their unique needs. “’Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ celebrates women making an impact in the automotive and mobility sector by promoting diversity, uplifting other women, and creating a space where women can engage collectively to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.”
Messe Frankfurt: Driving Innovation and Inclusion
The partnership with Messe Frankfurt has enabled Women with Drive to be hosted at the Festival of Motoring, a significant milestone for the event. Judy Maharaj, Show Director of FoM, spoke about the synergy between the event and FoM’s mission. “Collaboration drives change in the automotive and mobility sector. Women with Drive creates a meaningful impact on women’s participation and development in this industry.”
Maharaj highlighted the importance of women’s contributions to the growth and evolution of the sector. “Women bring unique perspectives and experiences essential to the growth and evolution of the industry. We are thrilled to be part of an initiative not only celebrating the accomplishments of women in this sector but also creating pathways for future leaders. Together, we can make a lasting impact and inspire the next generation of women to drive the future of mobility.”
MUA Insurance Acceptances: Steering the Future Forward
MUA Insurance Acceptances joins the initiative with a strong commitment to empowering women in the sector. Marike van Niekerk, Manager: Legal, Compliance, Marketing & Communications at MUA, expressed the company’s excitement about the partnership. “We’re excited to join Women with Drive, where the power and potential of women within the sector is celebrated. Empowerment is not just a goal but a journey driving the future forward.”
Van Niekerk emphasized the importance of diversity in driving innovation and success within the industry. “Women bring diversity and unique perspectives to the industry. By supporting this initiative, MUA aims to inspire more women to take the wheel and navigate their own path to success. We’re not just celebrating achievements—we’re paving the way for future leaders and innovators who will continue to shape the mobility sector.”
A Vision for the Future
The inclusion of these esteemed partners underscores the importance of supporting women’s empowerment in the mobility sector. As the industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Women with Drive play a crucial role in ensuring that women are not only participants but leaders in this transformation. The event is ALIVE with potential, growth, and opportunity, and this year’s gathering promises to showcase the remarkable contributions of women in the automotive and mobility sectors.
“We are thrilled to have partners who share our vision and are committed to making a difference,” Herbert concluded. “The industry is ALIVE with potential, growth, and opportunity, and this year’s event seeks to showcase this.”
