DSV has announced the launch of LeadHER, a programme designed to encourage, support, and empower women in South Africa to step into leadership roles.
The programme marks a milestone in advancing the group’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the goal of building a stronger internal female leadership pipeline at all levels of the organisation.
“We don’t launch initiatives like this because it looks good – we do it because tapping into the full talent pool and building diverse leadership teams makes us stronger and drives better business outcomes,” said DSV Group, vice president for learning & development, Jan Jensen.
Through a carefully designed curriculum, participants will explore their personal strengths, build strong professional networks, engage in one-on-one mentorship sessions, and gain insights from seasoned leaders within DSV to overcome barriers and unlock their full leadership potential.
The purpose of the programme is to motivate women to pursue and advance in leadership roles, strengthen the group’s internal pipeline of female leaders across all levels, provide inspiration, mentoring, and practical tools to navigate career challenges, and achieve greater representation of women in leadership positions.
DSV vice president for finance in sub-Saharan Africa, Freda Venter, said: “What you allow today will become tomorrow's standard. These words capture the essence of LeadHer.
“It’s a transformative leadership initiative empowering women to shape their futures, influence their environments, and set new benchmarks for leadership excellence through conscious choices and actions,” she said.
The programme incorporates globally recognised leadership development tools designed to strengthen participants’ self-awareness and influence. It is also supported by a team of executive sponsors, trainers and mentors, including senior directors, general managers, and specialists.
DSV assistant logistics manager and LeadHER participant, Mandisa Goba, said she was honoured to be selected for the programme.
“I am excited to strengthen my leadership journey, learn from inspiring women, make possible lifelong connections, and contribute to building spaces where others can thrive,” she said.
Over the next six months, the group will follow the journeys of 16 participants from across South Africa, sharing stories of their experiences, growth, and achievements.
