GAIA AFRICA’s Post

🎉 Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom and Progress!   As South Africa commemorates #FreedomDay on April 27th, we honor the brave souls who fought for #equality, representation, and a non-racial nation. This year, Freedom Month carries the theme “30 Years of #Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” reflecting on our journey towards a brighter future.   At the National Business Initiative (NBI), we’re proud to be part of this journey, working tirelessly towards #sustainablegrowth and development in South Africa. 🌱   Since 1995, we have been at the forefront of impactful initiatives including #LocalEconomicDevelopment, #PublicPrivatePartnerships, #socialtransformation, #energyefficiency and #climatechange.   Our approach is simple yet powerful: people-centered sustainability. 💼 By engaging our strong and active membership base, we demonstrate the pivotal role of business in shaping a truly sustainable future. Together, we're not just talking about change; we're driving it.   As we celebrate Freedom Day, let's also reflect on the progress we've made and the work that lies ahead. 🌟 Join us in shaping a sustainable and thriving society for generations to come: https://bit.ly/3Wai8Ld   #FreedomDay #30YearsOfDemocracy #SustainableFuture

At the beginning of this year, Women Empowering Nations hosted a travel seminar that brought together 20 young women from across the African Diaspora. What I thought would be an opportunity to connect and inspire turned out to be a much-needed space for restoration, reflection, and ultimately, reinvigoration. As leaders, we often move from one project to the next, checking off goals and pushing forward. But this seminar reminded me that real growth often happens when we pause. It was in that space—surrounded by powerful, ambitious women—that I found clarity. Many of the dreams and goals I’ve tackled this year were birthed, refined, or reinvigorated in those moments of stillness and connection. It was a reminder that we all need time to reset, regardless of how far along we are on our journeys. Here are my top 3 tips for anyone who may need a space to reset and refuel: 1. Create intentional space for stillness. Whether it’s a weekend retreat or even just a few hours away from your usual routine, stillness allows us to hear what’s often drowned out by the noise of everyday life. Block time on your calendar for intentional solitude, where you can step away from the demands of life and truly listen to what’s stirring within you. 2. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Being in the presence of other women from different parts of the African Diaspora, all on their own unique journeys, was deeply energizing. It was a space of mutual encouragement, challenge, and growth. Whether in your personal or professional life, seek out communities that inspire you to think bigger, act boldly, and embrace new perspectives. These connections can help reignite your passion and bring fresh ideas to the surface. 3. Revisit your “why.” Often, we get so caught up in the “how” and “what” of our goals that we forget why we started in the first place. Use your time of reflection to reconnect with your deeper purpose. Ask yourself: Why do you do what you do? What impact do you hope to have? Reconnecting with your “why” can provide the fuel you need to keep pushing forward, especially when challenges arise. Taking the time to reset and reflect is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The dreams and goals that came to life during that seminar have shaped the direction of my work this year in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. I encourage you to create your own space for restoration and reflection, wherever that may be, and watch how it transforms both your mindset and your path forward. 💕🌍 What upcoming space and time do you have on the calendar to rest, reset and refuel? #wenations #womeninleadership #socialimpact

Today is International Women’s Day, which takes on a unique meaning for the women of Asilia Africa’s Dunia Camp. At Dunia Camp, located in Serengeti National Park, local women run the show. Writer Dorine Reinstein highlighted the camp in a recent article for Travel Weekly on the “uphill battle” of female empowerment in the bush. At Dunia Camp, Africa's First All-Female-Run Safari Camp, "Guests are very excited to be guided by women…We have found that female clients like to have other females around rather than an entirely male workforce especially when traveling alone or in small groups” says Yasinta Mabula, the camp’s assistant manager. “Opened in 2016, Dunia Camp employs only women to become chefs, guides, managers and housekeepers. Some are mothers and wives, some are young and single. These "Dunia Angels," as the camp calls them, have traded in their traditional lives and leave their homes for months at a time to work in the dangerous bush, to be independent and support their families” writes Reinstein. Mabula shared with Reinstein the remarkable qualities that women have brought to the hospitality at Dunia, saying,  "Both women and men can be highly knowledgeable about a place or experience, but females are more attentive to the needs of guests. They uncover guests' feelings easier and think of things instinctively like, 'My guest has children in the car; let's put toys for the kids to play' or, 'It's warm out now, let's bring some water…They tend to be more in tune with the entire nature ecosystem and appreciate the value of the different types of flowers and trees. They are more likely to share stories about the medicinal uses of the different plants and share typical African traditions.” The impact of the Dunia Angels is significant, shifting how we view safari and changing the futures of women in the bush.  Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gDd6za_E   #internationalwomensday #asiliaafrica #duniacamp #safari #serengeti #tanzania #reyacommunications #reyapr #travelpr

🌍 Celebrating South Africa’s Heritage Day: Embracing Diversity in the Maritime Sector 🌊 On Heritage Day, we honor the diverse cultures, histories, and identities that make South Africa vibrant and unique. In the **maritime sector**, diversity and inclusion take on a powerful significance. This industry, traditionally male-dominated, is now evolving to create spaces for **women**, **youth**, and those from **previously disadvantaged communities**, making waves of change.🌐 The ocean connects us all, transcending borders, and at **Maritime EmpowerHer**, we are committed to ensuring that **everyone has a seat at the table**. From creating access for young women through **mentorship** to actively shaping inclusive policies, our work aligns with South Africa's vision of a more **equitable** future. ⚓ Maritime EmpowerHer is dedicated to bridging the gap and transforming the sector by providing access to **training, employment opportunities**, and strategic partnerships aimed at building a **diverse** workforce. In a field as vast and dynamic as maritime, every voice counts. 🚢 Together, we will continue navigating towards a more **inclusive industry**, where heritage isn’t just celebrated, but reflected in the faces and stories of every seafarer and maritime professional. 🤝 As we celebrate this **Heritage Day**, let’s remember that diversity is not only a strength but a necessity in driving innovation and progress in the maritime industry. 🌊🚢 #HeritageDay #MaritimeEmpowerHer #InclusionInMaritime #DiversityAndInclusion #SouthAfricaMaritime #Empowerment #WomenInMaritime #Transformation ---

Today is the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples and we're honouring the important role that Indigenous women play in preserving and passing down knowledge. Indigenous women are the heartbeat of their communities, carrying forward wisdom in environmental stewardship, cultural heritage, and traditional medicines. Not only do they support their own communities but they also contribute to a more global understanding of sustainable living and cultural resilience. In Canada, Indigenous women are guardians of languages, protectors of the land, and keepers of stories that have been passed down through generations. Their role in safeguarding tradition is crucial for maintaining the cultural identities of our First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. At Peoplebiz Consulting Inc., we're incredibly fortunate to work with some truly amazing people and leaders of Indigenous communities and organizations. We think it's important that we all commit to supporting our Indigenous peoples as they work to protect and sustain their cultures. We see a future where Indigenous knowledge, culture and heritage is celebrated and respected worldwide. #IndigenousDay #IndigenousPeoples #CulturalHeritage #IndigenousWomen #TraditionalKnowledge #Sustainability #IndigenousCommunities #FirstNations #Inuit #Metis #Peoplebiz

Today is the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples and we're honouring the important role that Indigenous women play in preserving and passing down knowledge. Indigenous women are the heartbeat of their communities, carrying forward wisdom in environmental stewardship, cultural heritage, and traditional medicines. Not only do they support their own communities but they also contribute to a more global understanding of sustainable living and cultural resilience. In Canada, Indigenous women are guardians of languages, protectors of the land, and keepers of stories that have been passed down through generations. Their role in safeguarding tradition is crucial for maintaining the cultural identities of our First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. At Peoplebiz Consulting Inc., we're incredibly fortunate to work with some truly amazing people and leaders of Indigenous communities and organizations. We think it's important that we all commit to supporting our Indigenous peoples as they work to protect and sustain their cultures. We see a future where Indigenous knowledge, culture and heritage is celebrated and respected worldwide. #IndigenousDay #IndigenousPeoples #CulturalHeritage #IndigenousWomen #TraditionalKnowledge #Sustainability #IndigenousCommunities #FirstNations #Inuit #Metis #Peoplebiz

#𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐈𝐧𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 Let us get to know the #KiiraMotorsWomen Making Africa's Mobility Solutions. Have you met any of our exceptional ladies?

🌍 Celebrating Angola’s Independence & the Power of Innovation with Inspiring Angolan Leaders Two days ago, Angola marked its 49th Independence Day — As an Angolan myself, I’m proud to honour the strength, resilience and unity of a nation that has faced immense challenges. 🇦🇴 As we celebrate this journey, I’m inspired by the stories of individuals who, like Angola, have shown resilience and vision. I am especially inspired by the powerful voices of Angolan women who have reshaped narratives, challenged stereotypes, and carved out spaces for female creativity. I want to highlight Carmen Mateia, a social activist who is dedicated to empowering young people. Through her various initiatives, she has been empowering young people and promoting community development across Angola. Carmen’s dedication to addressing social inequalities, particularly through youth leadership and women’s rights, exemplifies the power of local action to drive national change. For me, this not only showcases the potential of Angolan talent but also highlights the possibilities for innovation to shape our world. Though her focus was raising awareness on social issues, her vision resonates deeply with the tech sector, where I’m building my career, where inclusive opportunities in digital education and innovation are essential. Her commitment to empowering women and social empowerment encourages all of us to think about how we can make positive changes within our own fields. 👉 Here’s a link to learn more about Carmen Mateia. If you’re interested in Angola’s journey, it’s a worthwhile read. https://lnkd.in/e_KVAt4Q Happy Independence Day to Angola! May we continue to celebrate the stories of leaders who light the path toward a stronger, more inclusive future. ✨ #AngolanIndependence #TechForGood #YouthEmpowerment #GenderEquality #Innovation #Angola #CommunityLeadership #TechCareers #IdeationAfrica #WomenInTech

*** This Thing called PURPOSE......🌸🌸🌸*** As I grace Buziga Hill(Kampala Surburb in #Uganda) this morning with my 15km run/walk, my mind kept going back to this thing called purpose... I like Sunday runs/ walks as it makes me reflect on my week and prep for my coming journey ahead... I listen to the sounds of Irene Ntaate https://lnkd.in/dgKCz_G2 and I'm met with the occasional 7am bar hoper smiling at me, the boda boda guy whistling, the street vendors starting thier selling magic, the roads filled with beautifully dressed people going to church...it's a busy Sunday morning. I have to remember why I took the walk in the first place and focus on Ntaate's soulful voice! My reflection took me to the two exquisite events I was invited to speak at during the week. I was truly humbled to be part of these journeys: 1. TotalEnergies Uganda celebrating 10 years of running youth initiatives. Their programs prep young minds from high school to University to skilling and business with an aim of transforming thier communities and improve thier livelihoods in the areas TotalEnergies operates... 2. SheRise Summit Event for women organized by Majorine Nantambi https://lnkd.in/dbXMAV4v and Audrey Tumwine https://lnkd.in/d8jKwahi that brings women together to learn from each other and grow towards success... The one thing that heavily stood out at both events was #purpose! Most kept asking what's all the fuss, why do I need it, how can I find it etc... *** What I can say is that PURPOSE keeps me focused and grounded. Once I defined what it meant for me, things began to make sense..... Everything I do has to speak into my purpose, my job, my hustle, my playtime, my networks even the way I raise my children. With out purpose I would be chasing the wind🤦♀️(I did that for sometime). Purpose defines my value my worth and most importantly why I am HERE ...now this very moment!🌺 We are all put here to do something that will benefit the next generation....What is that thing that keeps you awake but also scares you at the same time....??💥 #transforminglives #bethechange #purpose