We’re closing out Season 1 of Learn Support Grow on a high note! In this inspiring finale, host Amandla Kwinana is joined by Sam Gqomo, founder of the Womandla Foundation and CEO of the Womandla Global Network.
Recorded in the warm and welcoming Bridge Books store in Linden, this episode dives deep into Sam’s journey as a social entrepreneur.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a changemaker, or simply looking for inspiration to level up in your own life, this conversation is packed with wisdom and motivation to help you shine brighter in the new year.
Don’t miss this finale episode that will leave you ready to Glow Up and Level Up!
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Learn
Want to become a social entrepreneur? Check out HP’s free Social Entrepreneurship course: https://www.life-global.org/course/318-social-entrepreneurship?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAjeW6BhBAEiwAdKltMtthLELMxvblTwxhQVVR1UoHsQsgwPMTiTL8bvTiVl8mUk_q7ErQZxoCwnEQAvD_BwE
Support
Social enterprises, by definition, are businesses with certain social objectives - the purpose Sam mentions - as primary goals while using commercial structures to run the organisation. You can start or continue to support social enterprises such as Sam’s PR agency Womandla Global Network (womandlaglobal.com), host Amandla’s Nina&Nola (ninaandnola.com) for your comms and production needs, and many others.
Grow
Sam suggests that you look out for programmes and networks that can help you on your journey. Here are a few:
Accelerate Her: https://seedacademy.co.za/accelerate-her/
African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program: https://www.state.gov/african-womens-entrepreneurship-program/
Women Creating Wealth: https://gracamacheltrust.org/wcw-campaign/
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on info@womandla.com
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this episode, Amandla Kwinana sits down with the brilliant Dr Samkelisiwe ‘Samke’ Nyamathe to explore the ever-evolving dynamics of women’s friendships. As a medical doctor, public health clinician, and mentor, Dr. Samke brings her unique perspective on why friendships are vital for personal growth, especially for ambitious women navigating their careers and lives.
Dr Samke shares the importance of having friendships that challenge and sharpen you, encouraging growth rather than stagnation. From the innocent bonds of childhood to the deeper connections formed in adulthood, they delve into the joys and complexities of maintaining meaningful friendships.
With actionable insights and heartfelt reflections, this episode reminds us to value the people who choose to stay in our lives and to take friendships seriously as a cornerstone of success and well-being.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special thanks to the Women of Womandla (all over SA and beyond)!
Learn
Dr Samke recommends A Thousand Splendid Sons by Khaled Hosseini which takes the reader through an adventurous friendship journey that leads the characters to overcome the most daunting obstacles with startling heroism: https://www.takealot.com/a-thousand-splendid-suns/PLID61662671?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAi_G5BhDXARIsAN5SX7rftJV4ONKJIJN0dQTHiU48z9vXLVfFSW9B4Ngq3YYVyYuWXED8bNcaAi2YEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&gclsrc=aw.ds
You can also add this movie to your Netflix watchlist: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008) is a timeless and extraordinary tale of innocence, friendship and the horrors of war.
Support
Take the time to know yourself and what you need in each friendship, and communicate that with your friends. Be mindful to reciprocate and find out what your friends, especially those strong friends, also need from your friendship.
Grow
Dr Samke found growth in A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson, an inspiring guide to how to live a more fulfilling and spiritual life: https://exclusivebooks.co.za/products/9780722532997
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on info@womandla.com
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this episode, we’ll dive into what it means to be an empowered woman and how women can uplift and support one another. Dr. Shauna Weatherspoon shares her personal journey of empowerment and her passion for initiatives like the Womandla Foundation’s Dignity Drive.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special thanks to Harmony Botya for making this interview happen.
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Learn
Servant Leadership: Forbes published an article about how women can be encouraged to be the natural leaders they can be: https://www.forbes.com/sites/adigaskell/2020/02/25/women-are-natural-servant-leaders-but-need-encouragement-to-take-on-the-role/
Support
Support and mentor girls and women in your community or see how you can contribute to women empowerment organisations such as Womandla Foundation (https://www.womandla.com/our-impact) and Raising Our Daughters Foundation (https://www.rodfoundation.org/impact)
Grow
Empower Yourself: Dr Shauna recommends planning your life and letting go of tasks that are not essential. Find out what your priorities are (in the various areas of your life) and make time for them.
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this episode, Heléne Smuts dives into the importance of having those tough, honest conversations we often avoid. She explores how confronting difficult topics can actually strengthen relationships, build trust, and pave the way for deeper connections.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special thanks to Samkeliso Sihlangu and Sam Gqomo for your assistance.
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Learn
Learn more about Transactional Analysis: watch this short video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxn8FxE0sgY
Support
Practice getting comfortable: follow and share Heléne’s tools on how to get comfortable with hard conversations with friends and colleagues and start practising them in your professional and personal life.
Heléne recommends reading Crucial Conversations for more on the topic https://www.takealot.com/crucial-conversations-third-edition/PLID72357742?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwo8S3BhDeARIsAFRmkOP5_cihPE0aHPEms440L9Oau2V0XaOVlRU3iU2kaTbLA37ljyhgjesaAsf_EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
Grow
Take the Lead: Get your copy of Heléne’s book, Ditch Mediocrity, to step up your leadership game https://www.amazon.com/Ditch-Mediocrity-Hel%C3%A9ne-Smuts/dp/0620938242
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this episode, Nokuthula takes us through her journey into the male-dominated IT industry, and her initial intimidation which she overcame through hard work, support from mentors and self-belief.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special thanks to the Goethe Institut Johannesburg for the use of their library.
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Learn
MANCOSA, a long-standing partner of the Womandla Foundation, offers courses for those interested in careers in IT, Tech or Artificial Intelligence (AI): https://www.mancosa.co.za/school/school-of-information-and-digital-technology/
Support
Boost your self-esteem: Dove, one of our Womandla Women in STEAM Awards 2024 sponsors, hosts the Dove Self-Esteem Project to help young people overcome body image issues and fulfill their potential by building positive body confidence and self-esteem. https://www.dove.com/za/dove-self-esteem-project.html
Grow
Become a mentor: Join Womandla Foundation as a mentor and support our mentorship and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) school projects in Durban and Cape Town. Contact Sam on sam@womandla.com
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this punchy episode of the Learn Support Grow podcast, Amandla Kwinana connects with Anoshi Saretzki about breaking barriers in the workplace and beyond. Anoshi shares her journey from being a marketer in the global FCMG (fast moving consumer goods) industry to joining the traditionally male-dominated steel industry and finding the strength and bravery to be her best self.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special thanks to the Goethe Institut Johannesburg for the use of their library.
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Learn
Get your copy of Anoshi Saretzki's Julhuan to journey with the protagonist, Zanna, as she reclaims and unleashes the super powers she has always had within. https://www.amazon.com/Julhuan-Anoshi-Saretzki-ebook/dp/B0CTTNQ7PB
Support
Play you Part: Experienced professionals can take the opportunity to mentor women entering male-dominated fields. Mentorship can provide guidance, support, and valuable industry insights. Get in touch with us to mentor youth in Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg.
Self-doubt is natural but doesn’t need to hold you back. Listen to our Managing Imposter Syndrome episode with Alison Johnston. https://open.spotify.com/episode/1CzwH0h0CGM60GcWV28vuk?si=438c085f0cc64c51
Grow
Be open to change and willing to step out of your comfort zone to explore new opportunities. Start small if needs be, your confidence will grow!
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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Produced By White Hot
In this episode, Head of Product Management for Tactile Technologies, Thabang Maliehe, discusses the crucial role of men as allies in advancing gender equality
Together with your host, Amandla Kwinana, He emphasises the need for inclusivity and challenging traditional gender roles and biases. Thabang highlights the importance of recognising and respecting individuals' identities, granting young girls the opportunity to express themselves, and promoting gender equality in personal and professional settings.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com) Special Thanks to Goethe Institut Johannesburg for the use of their library.
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Learn
Read how Siv Ngesi, Womandla Women in STEAM Awards host, continues to fight for the girl child in this article: https://www.news24.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/film/siv-ngesi-on-starring-in-the-woman-king-and-why-his-gruelling-prep-work-was-the-easy-part-20221001
Support Sponsor the 5th Annual Womandla Women in STEAM Awards, contact Taahira on hello@womandla.com.
Grow Share your story #WomandlaPodcast #MaleAlliesMatter #WomandlaFoundation
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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Beat Provided By https://freebeats.io Produced By White Hot
In this powerful episode of the Learn Support Grow podcast, Amandla Kwinana connects with Yaw Dhomoh, CEO of Idea Hive (ideahive.co.za) to discuss the crucial role of male allies in promoting gender equality.
Yaw delves into personal experiences and actionable strategies. Additionally, Yaw emphasises the significant impact men can have in guiding boys through their formative years.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
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Learn
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the award-winning Nigerian writer, talks feminism on the Daily Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uTpCthF3Bg
Nedbank’s Khensani Nobanda shares the importance of gender equality for a better society and economy: https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/the-future-is-female-reframing-the-future-recognising-womens-impact-on-society-and-the-economy-120736a
Support
Volunteer to be a MENtor (men who mentor) with Womandla Foundation or other organisations in your community.
Grow
Nominate exceptional women and join the Womandla Women in STEAM Awards in celebrating their contributions. Nominations close on 17 July 2024. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScAxTNp0T-ALw6tjuP-HaMh-ngmgIhg5W6L7uIjVllHU5sB3Q/viewform
Share your story #WomandlaPodcast #MaleAlliesMatter
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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Beat Provided By https://freebeats.io
Produced By White Hot
Managing Imposter Syndrome
In this professional development episode, Tactile Technologies’ Managing Director, Alison Johnston, talks us through how to manage imposter syndrome.
Together with your host, Amandla Kwinana, we explore strategies for managing imposter syndrome, including self-awareness, time management, and assertiveness. Whether you’re starting off in your career or a new role, you can show up as your best self!
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
Special Thanks to Goethe Institut Johannesburg for the use of their library.
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Learn
Watch this illustrated Ted-Ed video giving an overview of imposter syndrome: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQUxL4Jm1Lo
Support
Sponsor the 5th Annual Womandla Women in STEAM Awards, contact Taahira on hello@womandla.com
Lindelwa Skenjana’s The Black Girl's Guide to Corporate South Africa: This timely memoir-cum-guide includes the insights of black women at various stages of their career as they navigate the pitfalls of the corporate world. https://bridgebooks.co.za/products/9780624090946
Grow
Nominate exceptional women and join the Womandla Women in STEAM Awards in celebrating their contributions. Nominations close on 17 July 2024. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScAxTNp0T-ALw6tjuP-HaMh-ngmgIhg5W6L7uIjVllHU5sB3Q/viewform
Bonang Mohale’s Lift As You Rise: There is value in this book for leaders in all walks of life, but it is Mohale’s hope that young people specifically, those rising through the ranks, will find his insights and experience inspiring – for they are the country’s future leaders. hthttps://bridgebooks.co.za/products/9780639926452?_pos=1&_sid=847ec3660&_ss=r
Share your story #womandlapodcast #impostersyndrome
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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Produced By White Hot
In this eye-opening episode of the Learn Support Grow podcast, host Amandla Kwinana is joined by Luyanda Ngosi, Director of Nichè Wear. We delve into the crucial topic of menstruation and its impact on women and girls, particularly in South Africa.
Luyanda shares her personal experience, setting the stage for a broader discussion on the need for more accessible and affordable menstrual products, especially in underserved communities. The conversation also tackles the importance of workplace accommodations for employees who are menstruating, advocating for policies that support women's health and well-being.
Tune in to learn about the vital steps we can take to address period poverty, support menstrual health, and empower girls and women to embrace their periods with confidence and own their period power.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
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Learn
How to use period panties: this video id from AllMatters in Denmark, but applies for most period panties https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtTe3sfsfB8
Girls Just Wanna Have Dignity. Read more about how Womandla Foundation is addressing period poverty: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/womandlas-wellness-morning-empowers-girls-durban-womandla/?trackingId=yEfPay%2BM6V21vK17LCYSNQ%3D%3D
Watch the Netflix documentary Luyanda references. ‘Period. End of Sentence’: https://www.netflix.com/watch/81074663?trackId=255824129&tctx=0%2C0%2Cb0267e23-30a3-4ba2-a935-b05920ea7b02-197126478%2Cb0267e23-30a3-4ba2-a935-b05920ea7b02-197126478%7C2%2Cunknown%2C%2C%2CtitlesResults%2C81074663%2CVideo%3A81074663%2CminiDpPlayButton
Support
Contribute to Womandla Foundation's ongoing sanitary pad drive and support school girls in KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape, South Africa: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/womandla-foundation
Buy a pair of The Lifestyle Underwear by Niche Wear for yourself, your daughters, to donate, or as a gift: info@nichewear.co.za or https://www.instagram.com/thelifestyleunderwear/
Grow
Own your power. Try out some of Luyanda’s suggestions on finding the best sanitary products for you. Owning our power starts with loving ourselves, just as we are.
Share the power. Tack action and start (or continue) to normalise talking about periods at home and at the workplace, and contribute to solutions as and when you can.
Share your story #womandlapodcast #periodpower
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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In this liberating episode of the Learn Support Grow podcast, we dive into the vital topic of menstruation with our esteemed guest, Dr Mpume Zenda (@DrGynae).
Together with your host, Amandla Kwinana, we explore the importance of openly discussing periods and dismantling the stigmas and stereotypes surrounding them. The conversation extends to the workplace and we also tackle the crucial topic of menstrual hygiene management in schools, emphasising the importance of access and education.
Join us in this inspiring discussion and discover how we can own our period power.
The Learn Support Grow podcast is brought to you by the Womandla Foundation, in partnership with Tactile Technologies.
Produced by Nina&Nola (www.ninaandnola.com)
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Learn
Get your hands on a copy of Dr Mpume's book - Mommy, My Body is Changing: https://exclusivebooks.co.za/products/9780639762630
Watch this Tedx Talk by Danielle Howell, Hormonal cycle alignment - a solution to burnout?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xfg5SMSWd_k
Support
Contribute to Womandla Foundation's ongoing sanitary pad drive and support school girls in KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape, South Africa: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/womandla-foundation
You're not alone. "By telling this story, my goal is to help normalize the conversation around periods and women’s bodies. Many women and girls experience feelings of taboo or shame surrounding their period. Until we can talk openly about menstruation and women’s bodies, this stigma and discomfort will continue." Rylee Rosenquist, Director of First Time for Everything: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7hd0xiAXVY
Grow
Own your power. Try out some of Dr Gynae's suggestions on understanding our bodies and the available and best sanitary products for you. Owning our power starts with loving ourselves, just as we are.
Share the power. Tack action and start (or continue) to normalise talking about periods at home and at the workplace, and contribute to solutions as and when you can. Like Dr Gynae mentioned, be it period bags in every class, sanitary pad drives, or creating an accommodating work environment.
Share your story #womandlapodcast #periodpower
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To advertise on the show, contact Sam on sam@womandla.com.
All funds raised go toward Womandla Foundation's programs and initiatives. For more info, visit www.womandla.com.
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Produced By White Hot
