Freedom means many different things to people, and for the women of sport in South Africa, getting into the industry is a freedom they do not take for granted. Mzansi has seen exponential growth when it comes to women’s sport in its various capacities.
Our three major teams, the Banyana Banyana, the Proteas Women, and the Springbok Women, are now household names when it comes to sport in general.
There have been major strides that have been made on and off the playing field and the media industry has seen exponential growth in this aspect. We are seeing more women in sports broadcasting than ever before. Companies are now making sure they are not just giving women more opportunities but also allowing to thrive in what they do.
There have been women who walked a torrid path that has now opened the doors for the women who are on our screens or airwaves. The journey was nothing short of an arduous one as they also had to navigate an oppressive government as they tried to make their dreams become a reality. Nowadays women have a seat at the table and more than proving themselves in what can achieve.
SuperSport Football presenter Mbali Sigidi spoke proudly of how far women in broadcasting have come and says it’s paramount that we remember that freedom is not something one should take for granted.
“Being a woman in sports means not just breaking ceilings, but shattering them! This Freedom Day is not only a symbol of where we come from as a country, but it serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done, and that with freedom comes great responsibility.”
SuperSport Football Presenter, Mbali Sigidi
Karabo Mokgalagadi, who is in charge of Media and Communications at Netball South Africa, told gsport: “On Freedom Day, I’m reminded that freedom is more than a right – it’s a catalyst for opportunity.”
“As a woman in sports broadcasting, I’ve shattered glass ceilings and learned to rise above the noise. I’m grateful for the freedom to pursue my passion and inspire others to chase their dreams.”
Media and Communications at Netball South Africa, Karabo Mokgalagadi
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Tasha Mentasti, a household name in surfing and currently the Regional Director at the World Surf League, says Freedom Day holds great significance, as it highlights the positive change that has come about.
“Freedom Day can be celebrated in many ways as a South African. As a woman in sport, this day signifies the end of the period of social oppression and encourages equality for all. I am grateful for the massive strides taken by government and national federations to ensure better opportunities for women participating in all forms of sport in South Africa.”
World Surf League Regional Director, Tasha Mentasti
Zambian-born sports broadcaster Ashley Nakazwe is working tirelessly to ensure gender parity when it comes to women’s sport. She is a familiar face on SuperSport’s continental football show, Soccer Africa.
To add to her already stellar CV she is also the founder and Creative Director at MN Sports Agency. Nakazwe expressed that Freedom Day serves as a constant reminder that women in sport have an important role to play in the world of sport.
“Freedom Day reminds me that our voices carry the legacy of those who fought for the right to be seen, heard, and valued. As a Woman in Sports Broadcasting, every time I step into the studio or on the pitch, I know I’m not just reporting the game – I am continuing a journey of representation, It’s a privilege and a responsibility I carry with pride.”
Sports Broadcaster and Agency Founder, Ashley Nakazwe
Sponsorship guru Indira Albuquerque who is now plying her trade at Advent Sport Entertainment and Media says the sacrifices made by women have not only built up women’s sport but also society.
“Freedom Day is a day to celebrate the progress made towards a more just and equitable society. This speaks to the immeasurable sacrifices women have made in society but also in sports.”
Advent Sport Entertainment and Media’s Indira Albuquerque
“As a woman in sport, we can truly reflect on how much stride has been made, but still remain optimistic that we will continue to break barriers in future. The future will always belong to the one who believes in the beauty of their dreams.”
Getting this valuable insight from women in the industry shows that there is a lot to be proud of in terms of how far women have come but without sounding like a stuck record the reality is the work is far from being done.
However, with the liberties we are afforded in South Africa, it is really up to us to make the most of it and pay it forward to the women around us as we we must use it to uplift one another and ensure that we put our freedom to good use as we look to create a sisterhood.
Main Photo Caption: Freedom Day signifies many things to different people. Former pro surfer Tasha Mentasti, now a World Surfing regional administrator, expresses gratitude: “I am grateful for the massive strides taken by government and national federations to ensure better opportunities for women participating in all forms of sport in South Africa.” All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: SuperSport Football presenter Mbali Sigidi says Freedom is not something to be taken for granted. “Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done, and that with freedom comes great responsibility.”
Photo 3 Caption: Ashley Nakazwe says that Freedom Day is a reminder that women have an important role to play in the world of sport. “Freedom Day reminds me that our voices carry the legacy of those who fought for the right to be seen, heard, and valued.”
Photo 4 Caption: Indira Albuquerque says the sacrifices made by women have not only built up women’s sport, but also society. “Freedom Day is a day to celebrate the progress made towards a more just and equitable society.”
