Reflections from the Women at Leading Language
- Leading Language
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Reflections from the women in the team – what it’s like to be a woman living and working in South Africa, working for Leading Language, especially as a woman-owned company – and their hopes. A great way to wrap up Woman’s month!
Zineb Marwane – French Language Trainer
What is it like to be a woman living and working in South Africa?
As a French-Moroccan woman who has lived here for 10 years, I feel proud to be part of South Africa’s diversity. Life here has its challenges, but I deeply appreciate the warmth of people and the strong sense of community.
Working for a woman-owned company like Leading Language
It gives me a sense of pride and motivation to see women leading with vision and resilience. It reminds me daily that women can create meaningful impact in business and society.
My hopes – for myself, country, career
For myself: to keep growing and sharing my African identity with pride. For the country: more equality, safety, and opportunities for women. For my career: to keep building bridges across cultures and make a lasting contribution. I'm grateful for the opportunity that Karen and her team have given me and will always be supporting Leading Language whenever I can!
Nareen Blaeser – Training Assistant
What is it like to be a woman living and working in South Africa?
Living and working as a woman in South Africa is both a privilege and a responsibility. We carry the legacy of resilience – of mothers, grandmothers, and sisters who paved the way with courage and conviction. But we also face the daily reality of safety concerns, and the need to constantly prove our worth. For me, being a woman in this country means choosing hope over hardship, and using every opportunity to uplift others – especially young women and mothers—through structured support and faith-based encouragement.
Working for a woman-owned company like Leading Language
Working with Leading Language is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just about being seen—it’s about being valued. There’s a deep sense of purpose in contributing to a company led by women who understand the power of communication, education, and inclusion. At LL, I’ve found space to grow professionally while staying true to my calling: to serve, to teach, and to build systems that empower others. It’s a place where excellence and empathy walk hand in hand.
My hopes – for myself, my country, and my career
I hope to continue building bridges – literal and figurative. Whether I’m coordinating lessons or crafting scripture cards for a prayer group, I want my work to reflect integrity, intention, and impact. For South Africa, I dream of a nation where women’s voices are not only heard but heeded – where safety, opportunity, and dignity are non-negotiable. And for my career, I hope to keep blending structure with soul: leading with faith, mentoring with warmth, and always leaving things better than I found them.
Dimakatso Songoane – Business Development Manager
What is it like to be a woman living and working in South Africa?
South Africa is the only home I know, and I am proud to be from here – I love the people, different cultures, food, and our beautiful sights! While we still have a long way to go as a country in terms of women’s rights, safety, and opportunities available to us, I am hopeful that things will change especially as more young people take up space, step into positions of power and more women find their voice.
Working for a woman-owned company like Leading Language
The best thing to have happened to me! I have always looked up to and been inspired by women. To be led and mentored by one who decided to break barriers in the space we are in, is a privilege. I am surrounded by an incredible team of women (and men) who aren’t afraid of change and want to see the company and team succeed.
My hopes – for myself, my country, and my career
To be a better version of myself – make things easy for the next woman as I progress in my career. Grab opportunities when presented to me, grow and become someone the 8 year old me would be proud of.
Raquel Paiva – Portuguese Language Trainer
What is it like to be a woman living and working in South Africa?
Before coming to RSA, I was told it would be too dangerous for a woman alone to live here. Nothing could be further from the truth. I have lived in RSA for over 15 years and always been on my own. I drive to work alone, I go grocery shopping alone, I do all my stuff alone. And yes, I was in a smash and grab in 2012, but I have also been in very vulnerable situations, yet remained safe. While we have to be careful to avoid certain places, especially at night, it’s also untrue to say that we live in fear. However, let’s also keep in mind the background. I do not live in a township, where the reality for women and young girls is very different. Unfortunately, in townships, women and girls are more vulnerable than the common middle-class woman like me. There, rape and murders happen more often than we’d like to admit. So, RSA includes two realities depending on one’s background. And the women and girls from townships and lower-income areas should be protected and men educated to leave them be.
Working for a woman-owned company like Leading Language
It’s great! In a world where most businesses are predominantly male-owned, it’s a blessing to work for a school that is mostly female-owned, where things run as well or perhaps even better than in a male-owned business. I find everybody very supportive, passionate, friendly, and professional. There should be more businesses like this!
My hopes - for yourself, country, career.
My main goal and hope is to be more financially stable without being so overworked (not Leading Language's fault!!). I’d love to find my own place soon and get a new car as mine is starting to give me too much trouble. And I’d love to travel more! With regards to RSA, I hope for a less corrupt government, less inequality between people and more protection for the most vulnerable, especially women, children, and animals. As I said in 1, women and girls must be protected, but above all, some men should be educated to leave them alone. Consequences should be tougher for evildoers. Career-wise, I am where I like. Teaching both Portuguese and English to amazing students, from pre-school children to adults. It has taught me a lot, and may I never stop learning!
Dr. Mona Menaza – Arabic Language Trainer
What is it like to be a woman living and working in South Africa?
I am so glad to be working in a beautiful country like South Africa. At the same time, I feel for the South African nation who has endured struggles until quite recently – challenges that ended in other parts of the world many centuries ago.
Working for a woman-owned company like Leading Language
In Egypt, I worked with both male and female colleagues and supervisors, and I found that the experience – whether positive or challenging – always depended on the professionalism of the individual. In South Africa, I notice the same pattern, but I am also exposed to very new concepts that I had never encountered before. Still, I feel fortunate to be part of a leading language team where people are open-minded and respectful. Karen, as a leader, sets an example of what it means to be a truly universal professional – someone who sees those around her as human beings, beyond any clichés, frames, or labels.
My hopes - for yourself, country, career.
My wish for myself is to be seen as a human being regardless of gender, color, race, religion, or appearance. And my wish for the world is that humanity always takes the upper hand over any trace of racism.
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