In Africa and beyond, gender bias persists, particularly in male-dominated industries; despite socio-economic and technological advancements, women continue to face significant barriers. From construction to politics and entertainment, women struggle for recognition and equality. In today’s modern world, gender equality should be a fundamental right.
Consider agriculture, a sector requiring strenuous labour, where women contribute over 60% of labour for food production yet still need to be recognised and under-rewarded. Women have made political strides since the 1990s, now holding over 30% of government seats and making meaningful contributions. Globally, women remain underrepresented in male-dominated fields. In Canada, women comprise only 5% of skilled trades workers, while in Europe, just 8% of working women are in male-dominated industries. Although women have made recent gains in the US, challenges persist.
Despite these obstacles, African women are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. Meet seven trailblazing women redefining leadership and innovation in male-dominated industries.
#1. Elizabeth Marami, Kenya’s First Female Marine Pilot.
Elizabeth Marami‘s remarkable journey is redefining the maritime industry. At 27, she became Kenya’s first female marine pilot, achieving a new feat and paving the way for others. Her courage and determination inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in this traditionally male-dominated field.
Growing up in Mombasa, Marami was fascinated by ships sailing in and out of the harbour. Despite initial doubts, she seized a scholarship to study Nautical Technology in Egypt in 2009. This marked the beginning of her pioneering journey. Elizabeth’s family, particularly her father, encouraged her to pursue her dreams despite societal expectations.
Her educational background is impressive. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nautical Technology from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport in Alexandria, Egypt, and a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nautical Science from the Warsash Maritime Academy in the United Kingdom. She’s completing a Master’s in Business Management at the University of Nairobi.
As a marine pilot, Marami’s work is demanding. She’s responsible for safely navigating vessels during her watch, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining proper rest hours. Her experience extends to cargo vessels, tug masters, and cruise ships, including her current role as 1st officer at Royal Caribbean Group Celebrity Cruises.
Despite facing numerous rejections due to her gender, Marami persevered. She’s now a vocal advocate for women in the maritime industry, highlighting challenges and pushing for 50:50 gender representation. Her blog and Against the Tide Foundation provide platforms for sharing stories and empowering women.
“Go for it. The change is here; you are the change. Nothing is impossible. Believe in yourself and strive to be the best you can be.”- Elizabeth Marami, Kenya’s First Female Marine Pilot.
#2. Sandra Aguebor, Founder of Lady Mechanic Initiative.
Sandra Aguebor-Ekperuoh, Nigeria’s pioneering female mechanic, has pushed the boundaries and inspired a generation of women to pursue careers in the male-dominated automotive industry.
Born in Benin, Nigeria, Aguebor’s fascination with motors and engines was sparked by her father’s stories of women mechanics he had met during his travels. Despite facing ridicule and discouragement, she persevered, driven by her passion for fixing things.
Growing up, Aguebor’s educational journey began at Ivbiotor Primary School, followed by St. Maria Goretti Grammar School in Benin and Benin Technical College, where she honed her technical skills. Her father’s encouragement and her determination paved the way for her success.
Aguebor graduated from Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State with a degree in mechanical engineering and later earned a degree from Goethe Institute in Lagos State. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for her groundbreaking career.
She launched her auto repair garage after working for Edo Line and Nigeria Railway Corporation. However, her journey was challenging. Her workshop was demolished, but she adapted, transitioning to a mobile workshop and providing on-the-spot emergency vehicle service along Lagos freeways.
Aguebor’s most significant impact lies in her dedication to empowering women. In 2004, she founded the Lady Mechanic Initiative, a non-governmental organisation providing comprehensive training in auto mechanics, electrician work, professional driving, generator repairs, speed boat repairs, and house plumbing.
Through this initiative, Aguebor has trained over 4000 girls, offering them a path to economic independence and self-esteem. Aguebor’s perseverance and achievements have earned her recognition and accolades.
#3. Damilola Olokesusi, co-Founder and CEO of Shuttlers.
Damilola Olokesusi is a visionary entrepreneur who is disrupting transportation in Nigeria. As co-founder and CEO of Shuttlers, she’s changing how people commute in urban areas.
Her journey began with a personal experience that sparked a passion for change. After her sister was robbed by armed men disguised as public bus drivers, Olokesusi decided to take action. Growing up, Olokesusi’s fascination with problem-solving led her to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Lagos.
Her engineering background and entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for her success. In 2015, she co-founded Shuttlers with Busola Majekodunmi and Damilola Quadry- launching the company with their savings.
Shuttlers offer convenient and reliable shuttle services for commuters in major cities. The company aims to solve transportation challenges by providing affordable, efficient, and comfortable shared mobility solutions.
With Shuttlers, professionals can book seats, pay subscriptions, and track arrival and departure times. The platform has expanded to 22 routes, serving over 80,000 commuters daily.
Olokesusi’s innovative approach has enabled her to overcome numerous obstacles. As a female technopreneur, she has navigated Nigeria’s transportation industry through strategic partnerships and collaborations.
Shuttlers has received grants from the World Bank, Airtel, and Sahara Energy and raised $4 million in funding from Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures.
Olokesusi’s achievements have earned her recognition and accolades. In 2019, she was named in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list and received the Digital and Tech Award at the Women in Africa Contest in Morocco.
As UNCTAD’s eTrade for Women Advocate for Anglophone Africa, Olokesusi promotes gender inclusivity in the digital economy.
#4. Olebogeng Sentsho, Founder of Yeabo Mining.
Olebogeng Sentsho is a trailblazing entrepreneur transforming South Africa’s mining landscape. As the Founder and Head of Operations at Yeabo Mining, a strategic waste management company, and Head of Marketing and Client Relations at DKI Energy, Sentsho is charting new paths for women in mining with her innovative leadership.
Her passion for business has been evident from the start. She studied law at the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration to sharpen her expertise further.
Sentsho’s impact extends beyond her ventures. She serves as the Founding CEO of the Mining Innovation Initiative of South Africa (MIISA), a non-profit organisation committed to fostering innovation and thought leadership in the mining sector. Through MIISA, she continues to push boundaries and shape the future of mining in South Africa.
Under Sentsho’s leadership, Yeabo Mining transforms the industry with its Afro-centric approach, focusing on beneficiating raw minerals and creating jobs.
#5. Jumoke Dada, Founder of Taeillo.
Jumoke Dada is an innovative entrepreneur transforming the African home decor landscape with her creative approach to sustainable design. As the founder of Taeillo, a leading furniture brand in Nigeria and Kenya, Dada seamlessly blends traditional African craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Dada graduated with first-class honours in Architecture from the University of Lagos. Her passion for design and commitment to sustainability led her to create Taeillo, a brand that beautifully merges contemporary aesthetics, traditional African elements, and eco-friendly practices.
Her journey began in 2013 during an internship at a construction design firm. She pursued a Master’s Degree in Environmental Design and participated in various design competitions and workshops. As a member of the Young African Leadership Institute (YALI), Dada earned a certificate in entrepreneurship.
Through Taeillo, Dada promotes “Modern Africa,” a philosophy revitalising traditional materials and methods to suit modern lifestyles. Her brand bridges the gap between the past and the present, allowing Africans to celebrate their roots while embracing modernity.
Taeillo’s innovations include using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to create a virtual showroom. This immersive experience enhances the shopping experience while reducing costs and logistical challenges.
Dada’s achievements have earned her recognition on global platforms like BBC World News, CNN Inside Africa, and the NASDAQ Tower at the New York Times. She has received numerous awards, including the Leading Ladies Africa 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria 2021 and the HER Network Woman of the Year (Entrepreneurship) 2021.
Dada’s work at Taeillo sets a new standard for sustainable and culturally relevant design worldwide, inspiring a new generation of designers and entrepreneurs.
Dada is redefining what creating modern, meaningful, and stylish living spaces means.
#6. Thato Schermer, CEO of Zoie Health Technologies.
Thato Schermer is revolutionising women’s healthcare in Africa through Zoie Health Technologies, the continent’s first digital women’s health clinic.
Her innovative solution addresses the lack of access to quality healthcare services, empowering women to take control of their well-being.
Growing up, Schermer witnessed the challenges women faced in accessing healthcare. With a background in healthcare, technology, and entrepreneurship, she co-founded Zoie Health in 2020.
Zoie Health’s mission is to provide affordable, convenient, and caring healthcare to women at every life stage.
#7. Ntsiki Biyela, CEO of Aslina Wines.
Ntsiki Biyela, CEO of Aslina Wines, is a trailblazer in South Africa’s wine industry.
Her journey from a rural village in KwaZulu-Natal to becoming the country’s first black woman winemaker is proof of her determination and passion.
Growing up in Mahlabathini, her grandmother’s guidance shaped Ntsiki’s early life. After high school, she spent a year as a domestic worker before receiving a scholarship to study winemaking at Stellenbosch University.
Biyela’s ambition to create her wines grew after collaborating with Californian winemaker Helen Kiplinger. In 2016, she established Aslina Wines, named after her grandmother. The brand has gained international recognition for its premium wines, showcasing Biyela’s expertise and commitment to quality.
Her achievements extend beyond the wine industry. She empowers women and youth through mentorship and training programs. Her story inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs and winemakers, breaking racial and gender barriers.
