Women’s Day 2017

Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and progress of women and the important role women have played and continue to play in South Africa's society.

Women’s Day is a commemoration to the more than 20 000 women of  who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 to protest against the extension of apartheid pass laws to include black women.

Making a difference

Women often juggle the roles of mothers, wives and caregivers as well as their careers. 

We’re committed to empowering women and helping them reach their maximum potential. An example of this is Kay van Oordt, the first female welder to graduate from the Department of Transport and Public Works, Bellville Mechanical Workshop Apprenticeship Programme. 
 

The 22 year old graduate, joined the 4 year apprenticeship programme in 2013 and graduated on 1 July 2017 as the first female welder.

Although she says becoming a welder wasn’t always a career option while growing up, she has learnt to love the trade.

“I didn’t always want to become a welder but I received a great opportunity from the Department of Transport and Public Works and as time passed I learnt to love it.”

She says although being a female welder comes with its challenges she has received a lot of support from her male co-workers and will  encourage  other  females

to consider this rewarding career.  

Find out more about the Bellville Mechanical Workshop Apprenticeship and how to apply.

Every year the Department of Agriculture recognises the top female farm workers at their annual AgriFemina and Female Entrepreneur Awards.

The Female Entrepreneur Awards will take place on 10 August 2017 and recognises the outstanding achievements of females working in the agricultural, forestry and fisheries sectors. For updates on the awards ceremony, follow the Department of Agriculture on Twitter.

To find out more about business opportunities for women within government visit  

• Technology for women in business
• South African network for women in transport
• Isivande Women's Fund (IWF)