Koo Govender wins Women's Empowerment Award

A new category introduced in 2015, the Women's Empowerment Award recognises corporate social investment projects that work to improve women's daily lives and to guarantee the economic, social and political empowerment of women.

"I have mentored young women in my personal capacity for as long as I can remember and developing women to become better versions of themselves is something I am passionate about. Phakama is a dream come true; a formalised version of my vision to help transform this country through the upliftment of its women," says Govender.

"We teach soft life-skills that are not covered in text books or on campus. Our modules address topics that will help propel our students into leadership positions, including presentation skills, developing your personal brand, CV development, interviewing skills, stress and time management, and personal finance. Each module is intended to help build skills and confidence."

Selection process

Second and third-year students from leading academic institutions are hand-picked for each course. To qualify they must have marks that meet or exceed a 70% average, submit a written application and meet the transformation criteria VWV has determined for the academy. Those who make the short-list are put through a rigorous interview screening process, certifying that only the most passionate are accepted into the academy.

"As much as this is an upliftment programme, we want candidates who are prepared to go the distance. We pave the way for their success, but need their passion and commitment to seal the deal," says Govender.

Another offering fundamental to the success of VWV's programme is mentorships - a perspective the judges of the competition found most impressive. Each student is mentored one-on-one by an expert in their field. Having had first-hand industry experience the mentors provide both career guidance and invaluable insight into the dynamics of the workplace.

"Ultimately we would like to see these women not only having the confidence and ability to land the job but keep it. We believe in building others and it is in building others that the leaders of today birth the successful leaders of tomorrow," adds Govender.

Unique feature

A further unique feature of the programme is its 'pay it forward' philosophy. "Our students are expected to share what they learn on the course with other women striving to achieve and go beyond their current station," explains Govender.

"I believe we should all practise philanthropy - personally and as corporates. We need to be the change we want to see. Phakama is a programme that's bigger than all the individuals involved; an initiative that's sustainable. It's our hope that we can replicate the Phakama model by involving other corporate partners who can impact other industries in an equally positive manner," says Govender.