Women Who Turn Possibilities into Reality: On camera from left: Prof. Pamela Dube, Ms Tiny Lenyehelo, and Ms Rose Nkhasi at the 2025Women’s Month celebration held at CUT Welkom Campus.

On 12 August 2025, CUT Institutional Renewal and Transformation Unit in the office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Pamela Dube, hosted the annual Women’s month commemoration at the Welkom Campus themed Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies. The celebration highlighted the resilience, leadership, and enduring impact of women across generations.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dube, spoke about gender equity, inclusive leadership, and intentional transformation. She reminded women that transformation is an ongoing journey requiring active commitment, paying tribute to the women of 1956, and encouraging the CUT community to treat Women’s Month as both a celebration and a catalyst for change.

  CUT women enjoyed the celebration and mentioned that the day was fulfilling and empowering.

Keynote speaker, Ms. Rose Nkhasi, regional leader and entrepreneur, delivered a deeply personal and motivating address, encouraging women to build legacies rooted in truth and excellence. Reflecting on her journey through hardship, debt, and societal pressure, she urged women to reject limiting labels and societal expectations. “We leave parts of ourselves dormant because we get used to where we are. Be true to who you are, let your actions define you, and always lift other women as you rise. Break the barriers, ask difficult questions, and live a life that is fulfilling to you.”

Dr. Anke Slabbert, Agripreneur and CUT Lecturer, echoed this message of empowerment and purpose. “We are not here just to earn a living, we are here to help others live with dignity, purpose, and possibility.”

Dr Slabbert shared that she uses her family farm to equip women and the youth with practical skills and encourage them to transform ideas into meaningful acts of service that will impact their communities.

A round of applause for the speakers: CUT women applauding the speakers who left them inspired and equipped with practical insights.

Ms. Modiegi Nyaile, Free State Director: Global Forum of Women Entrepreneurs, highlighted entrepreneurship and resourcefulness citing: “Even with limited resources, mentorship and collaboration can turn small beginnings into lasting legacies.” She emphasised that financial literacy, strategic planning, and community support are key to overcoming barriers and discovering innate potential.

Ms. Tiny Lenyehelo, Agripreneur and Social Activist, shared her journey in agriculture: “Legacy-building is not just about growing a business, it’s about creating platforms for change and empowering the next generation.” From informal food sales to managing over 1,200 hectares of sunflower, maize, and soya beans, she spoke of persistence, ethical leadership, and innovation as pillars of sustaining a business.

Throughout the day, speakers and panellists urged women to “complete the circle” by applying lessons learned within their own communities and professions. Empowerment, they said, is tangible if realised through mentorship, teaching, leadership, and collaboration that extend beyond an individual.

The event served not only as a celebration of women’s achievements but also as a strong reminder of the ongoing work required to build a more inclusive and empowered society.

By the end of the celebration, CUT women were left inspired and equipped with practical insights. Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies became more than just a theme but a collective commitment to transform possibility into reality, proving that women at CUT are not just a part of the story; they are shaping the future.

Uploaded: 13 August 2025