Behind every marketing empire, there is a strong, hard-working woman who is adding her magic to the marketing mix.

As mentors and trailblazers, they are the powerful pioneers of progress who are paving the way for future females in the industry. Additionally, they are the real representatives that ensure that female consumers have a voice and are heard.

These boss ladies are proof that the marketing world is nothing without a woman.

So, this National Women's Month, we've recruited some of these ladies to discuss what it means to be a woman in the field of marketing and what women should know when entering this industry.

Curious to know what they said?

Then read on as media update's Lara Smit discovers how these ladies are taking care of business here:

Laura Hendel, marketing manager for Club Med Southern Africa

Why is it important to have female representation in the marketing industry / in your industry within marketing roles?

Having female representation is necessary in any industry nowadays. Not only are females 50% of the customer population, but they are also key decision makers in purchasing most products and services (travel, retail, food, etc). Having female representatives in marketing roles is fundamental to understanding audiences better.

What advice do you have for young women wanting to enter the marketing industry / your industry within a marketing role?

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Be curious. Not only will it show your interest in the field, but it will also allow you to understand the big picture. In the long run, it will also contribute to you being able to act as an expert yourself and answer others' questions.

What are some obstacles that women might face when entering a career in marketing within your industry?

In my eyes, the biggest obstacle women face are their own filters.

We are always afraid of saying too much or too little because we have been taught from a young age to be cautious and delicate in the way we are perceived.

This is slowly shifting with Gen Z, who are starting to be encouraged to be proud of their opinions and bold in expressing them. Yet the exercise is not always easy, especially for older generations.

What unique perspectives can women bring to marketing roles within brands / in the marketing industry?

The biggest opportunity I see for women in marketing roles is to take control over the narrative and use it to help mentalities evolve for the better.
By displaying more diversity and being more inclusive in our communications, we pave the way for tomorrow's women to feel better in their bodies and be more confident in their contribution. [This will] hopefully lessen the need for a Women's Month to raise their voices over inequalities.


Manisha Jogi, head of strategy at 8909

What advice do you have for young women wanting to enter the marketing industry / your industry within a marketing role?

Let your work speak for itself. Everything else will fall into place. Don't be blinded by titles, people and pressures — these will always exist. If you're passionate about the industry and the skills that you bring to the table, there's a reason for it and that means there will always be space for you.

What are some obstacles that women might face when entering a career in marketing / within your industry?

The world talks about progression and creating an environment where all people are treated equally. However, if you're a working woman in any industry, it is likely that you and I have faced similar obstacles [such as] being undermined and being underrepresented.

I do believe that there's value in finding ways to navigate this for your own peace of mind on a daily basis. Trust your gut. Your strength sits within your ability to operate from a place of love and kindness, regardless of the environment.

Lastly, back yourself and back your work. You didn't make it this far just to make it this far.
What unique perspectives can women bring to marketing roles within brands / in the marketing industry?

Honestly, gender aside, remember that you're human. The most valuable attribute that you can bring to the industry is your humanness.

Remember, the people that you're trying to talk to are human with their own worlds, struggles, beliefs and mindsets. If you're able to prioritise this thinking, you've acknowledged your responsibility in this industry. In return, you're able to create more approachable, humanised and purpose-led brands.


Kelly Jackson, managing director of The Travel Corporation (TTC) in the EMEA region

Why is it important to have female representation in the travel industry within marketing roles?

According to a variety of research, it is predominantly women who make the travel buying decisions. So it is essential that we have the right marketers targeting the market.

What advice do you have for young women wanting to enter the travel industry within a marketing role?

The travel industry and marketing within the industry is extremely exciting.

You have to be open to change, adaptable and always willing to learn as the marketing landscape is constantly changing. You will want to keep ahead of the curve and on-trend with what is resonating in the market or for your brand as there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Of course, many types of marketing roles play a vital role in the industry — from marketing management to brand management and everything in between. [This is] including digital and social media marketing.

It's about deciding what role you wish to play in making your brand or product stand out, and making the decisions to ensure that you are driving the business.

What are some obstacles that women might face when entering a career in marketing within your industry?

Women in the travel industry are generally well-represented. I am very fortunate to work for a fantastic organisation with many females in leadership and managing positions.

I think for me, working within such a wonderful organisation does make a huge difference to know that you are encouraged to excel and succeed in your chosen field, regardless of gender.

What unique perspectives can women bring to marketing roles within brands / in the marketing industry?

In my opinion, women help create inclusive and immersive experiences through marketing.
We have a natural ability to be empathetic in addition to being social, flexible and persuasive, which is key in marketing.

How do you think women influence the marketing world? Let us know in the comments section below.

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We’re celebrating all things female this Women’s Month. Find out more about this special month in our article, What is the South African Women's Day all about — in 200 words or less?

*Image courtesy of Canva