The theme for this year’s Women’s Month is “Celebrating 30 years of freedom towards women’s development”.
Kerry Hiles is a singer and bassist who spreads joy and positivity through music.
Q: Describe your experience as a woman in entertainment.
A: It is a largely male-dominated industry where women are largely seen as decoration. So, until recently, I wasn’t really taken seriously as a performer. When I started, I was one of only a few female bass players but it has become more common.
Q: What challenges do women in your field face? How have you overcome these challenges?
A: As women, we have to deal with not being taken seriously.
Q: How have you used your position to help others?
A: I always try to lighten the load and provide an escape from your problems.
Q: What is your message to women this Women’s Month?
A: Keep on doing what you are doing. We, as women, don’t get the accolades but we know that we are making a difference. We make the small things happen, which in turn makes the big things happen. Women are powerful.
Aladia Moonie is a professional hairdresser and nail technician who plays an active role in helping women embrace their beauty.
Q: Describe your experience as a woman in the beauty industry.
A: It gives me fulfillment from making my clients feel confident and beautiful.
Q: What challenges do women in your field face and how have you overcome these challenges?
A: Long hours, physical demands, and high competition. Stereotypes such as being seen as “just” a hairdresser or stylist. I have overcome these challenges by staying up-to-date with trends, continuous education and by building strong client relationships.
Q: How have you helped others?
A: Camaraderie and support for other female businesses and mentors. I promote inclusivity by offering services and products for diverse hair types, textures, and styles, making everyone feel valued.
Q: What is your message to women this Women’s Month?
A: Remember that your voice matters, your story deserves to be told. Let’s create a more equitable world.
Lizelle Maurice is the executive director of the Border-Kei Chamber of Business, a position she has used to advocate for women empowerment and to help various NGOs around East London.
Q: How would you describe your experience as a woman in business?
A: It is not always easy, but it’s not meant to be easy, as long as we learn and grow through difficult moments.
Q: What challenges do women in your field face? How have you overcome these challenges?
A: Women are often not taken seriously, but there is a slow transformation happening. It’s important to focus on what you want to do and ignore the naysayers.
Q: In what way have you used your position in society to help others?
A: Through my work, we have been able to establish and grow NGOs. A lot of my work is focused on empowering women serving for the development of women, businesses, and our city.
Q: What is your message to women this Women’s Month?
A: Be true to who you are and be the best version that you can be. Forgive yourself for mistakes made, learn from them and move forward. Look for ways to make a better community.