BREAKING THE MOULD

In our neighbourhood, it takes all kinds of backgrounds to build and maintain a waterfront world that inspires all. As champions of inclusivity, we understand that women face unique challenges in the workplace, especially within male-dominated spaces. Here’s how some of our female Waterfrontiers navigate their roles in construction/urban planning, security and environmental sustainability.

“At the V&A Waterfront, I’ve had the unique opportunity to see my work move from drawing board to built form, something I didn’t always get to witness before. Starting out with the Granger Bay development, my role has since grown to touch many aspects of the precinct. It’s incredibly rewarding but not without its challenges. On site, especially in male-dominated environments filled with engineers and consultants, I’ve had to push past discomfort and doubt to assert myself. It can be intimidating directing men who are used to holding authority, and I’ve often felt the need to shift my personality just to be taken seriously. But over time, I’ve learned that our opinions as women matter just as much, and if we trust our expertise and back ourselves, we don’t need to shrink or second-guess. We deserve to be here.” ~ Vahira

"I’ve been at the V&A for a decade now, starting in health and safety and moving into environmental sustainability in 2020. Working with tenants and contractors to ensure legal compliance, especially around sea pollution, has been a journey of both growth and resilience. Coming from construction and inspection roles, I’ve often had to fight for respect in spaces where being a woman, particularly a black woman, seemed to count against me. I’ve had moments where my authority was questioned while a male intern was treated as more credible. That’s why I believe women shouldn’t feel pressured to change who they are to fit in. Yes, we sometimes adapt our tone depending on who we’re speaking to, but our competence should be enough. My advice is simple: don’t dim your light or your femininity. You’ve earned your place and your work will prove it.” ~ Priscilla.

When it comes to the women of the Waterfront, our tenants are just as inspiring as our staff. From frontline staff to brand managers, women play crucial roles in our V&A ecosystem. But it’s the stories of the entrepreneurs, women who boldly build businesses and create livelihoods for others, that we’re shining a spotlight on this Women’s Month.

“I believe that it is the footsteps of women, like the late Dora Sitole, who bravely chased their dreams that has put me in a position to chase after my own. I am also incredibly inspired by women, like my mother, who had to sponsor the dreams of others, instead of their own. We owe it to these women to bravely and boldly bring our own dreams to life. And that’s what my story at the Waterfront is. That you can come from any background, and really make it.” ~ Chef Nolu

“The industry we’re in is not an easy game to play. My biggest advice is to get some kind of business experience. Understand, you’re running a business, in whatever you do. It’s been an incredible advantage for me, as a restaurant owner now. You have to be passionate. You have to have a vision. And you have to have patience.” ~ Lindy

"I never planned to go into security, but 31 years later, I’ve learned that with resilience, preparation, and belief in your worth, there’s no space you can’t claim, even in a male-dominated industry.” ~ Magdeline

“One thing I’ve learnt from my mother is that it’s not always about the end product, or about the final destination. At the end of the day, what is important is how you treat others.” ~ Kira

Which women in your own life have inspired you? And, what are you doing to inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs, whether you’re a man or woman yourself?