Nqobile Mahlangu

What does your company do?

The Women’s Empowerment Network of South Africa (WENOSA) is a mission-driven non-profit organization dedicated to addressing gender inequality by empowering South African women and girls through economic participation, education, and advocacy. We provide high-impact programmes that develop entrepreneurial capacity, leadership skills, academic access, and personal agency for underserved women and girls — especially those facing structural barriers such as poverty, unemployment, and systemic exclusion. Our core initiatives include: Entrepreneurship Training through the Women in Business Programme, equipping female entrepreneurs to start, scale, and sustain successful SMEs. Leadership Development via the Next Generation Women Leaders Programme, empowering young women professionals to unlock their career potential. Education Access and Mentorship through the Scholarship and Adopt-a-School Programmes, supporting learners from disadvantaged communities with bursaries, guidance, and vital school resources. Policy and Social Advocacy, championing menstrual dignity, equitable procurement access, and broader gender-inclusive economic reform. We exist to ensure that every South African woman, regardless of background, has the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive and lead in society.

What is your biggest success?

One of my greatest achievements has been using my platform at WENOSA to drive meaningful change in both education and economic empowerment for women and girls. I’ve led initiatives that directly tackled period poverty, through pad drives and school partnerships—ensuring that girls at schools like Lofentse Girls High don’t miss out on learning due to a lack of basic dignity. I’ve also played a key role in launching WENOSA’s postgraduate scholarship programme, opening new pathways for women in higher education. At a personal level, re-entering the cybersecurity field after a career break stands as a major milestone. This journey reignited my passion for tech and has inspired me to mentor young women aspiring to enter the field. Bridging the gender gap in tech and tackling systemic issues like period poverty are not just professional goals—they’re deeply personal missions, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve already made.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

The biggest hurdle in my journey has been navigating a career shift back into cybersecurity, a field I’ve always been passionate about, but one that demands constant upskilling and revalidation. Despite my strong foundation in tech, returning to the industry meant overcoming knowledge gaps, earning updated certifications, and proving my value in a highly competitive, male-dominated space. This personal challenge deepened my understanding of the barriers many women face in re-entering the workforce or breaking into underrepresented industries. It’s also one of the reasons I’m so committed to the work we do at WENOSA, supporting women with the skills, confidence, and access they need to thrive in spaces that aren’t always built with them in mind.