Johannesburg, South Africa – Women with Drive 2025 delivered a high-impact day last week, bringing together industry leaders, changemakers, and trailblazers in a celebration of achievement, mentorship, and authentic leadership. Hosted under the vision of MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert, the event offered attendees a unique opportunity to gain insight from powerful stories, practical wisdom, and shared experiences.
Linda Cele, Product Head: Key Accounts and Partnerships at WesBank, opened the event with her signature address, reflecting on a career built through determination and strategic leadership. Cele reminded attendees that professional success is not a race to the destination, but a journey to be embraced. Central to her message was the transformative role of mentorship—guiding career development, shaping personal growth, and fostering leadership that resonates across generations.
Drawing inspiration from her father, Melanie van Straaten, Head of Castrol Southern Africa, shared her lifelong aspiration to join the Castrol team. Her keynote illustrated the importance of perseverance, tackling obstacles with unwavering determination until achieving her goal. Van Straaten’s message centred on the power of authenticity: “The only barrier that exists is the one you decide exists.” Her story encouraged attendees to reconsider the limitations they place on themselves and approach challenges with confidence and integrity.
A panel discussion on Breaking Glass Ceilings in Traditional Industries delved deeper into career progression. Panelists emphasised that advancement is rarely a single achievement; instead, it is a series of ceilings to navigate. Imposter syndrome was addressed openly, with strong advocacy for women supporting women—building networks that uplift and empower, rather than foster competition.
The newly introduced Fireside Chat left audiences profoundly moved. Marlize Havenga shared a video recounting a serious car crash she survived, revealing how personal trauma can inform purposeful leadership. Her commitment to ensuring the safety of parents in her team reflected the meaningful impact of turning adversity into actionable care.
Tamsyn Gerrits, top five Miss South Africa contestant and brand specialist, recounted her experience of a cancer diagnosis before the age of 30. By sharing her journey on social media, Gerrits highlighted the importance of early testing and treatment, and the power of vulnerability in saving lives.
Closing the formal program, Niki Seberini led attendees through an engaging session on breathwork, demonstrating how meaningful, positive change can be cultivated through small, consistent steps. Attendees actively participated in exercises, experiencing firsthand the tangible benefits of intentional wellness practices.
Women with Drive 2025 concluded with over R80 000 in prizes, celebrating a community of learning, growth, and shared triumphs. Herbert reflected on the day’s success: “Our gratitude goes to all speakers, attendees, and partners who came together to recognise the arrival of women. We look forward to continuing this vital theme and celebrating the milestone of our 10th event in 2026: Women with Drive – JIVE!”
The event reaffirmed that the journey of leadership is shaped not only by achievements but by authenticity, mentorship, and the courage to lift others along the way. Women with Drive 2025 set a benchmark for inspiration, connection, and empowerment, proving once again that when women arrive, they arrive together.
