First female dean inspires next generation of leaders

Breaking barriers, earning two doctoral qualifications and opening doors for others have defined Prof Polly Mashigo's leadership journey. As the first female Executive Dean of Tshwane University of Technology's Faculty of Economics and Finance, she inspires women to pursue academic excellence, embrace leadership opportunities and create pathways for future generations.

Prof Polly Mashigo, who inspires women to lead, learn and transform South Africa. Women's Month provides an opportunity to celebrate women whose achievements help to shape institutions and communities. Among them is Prof Mashigo, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Finance at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus, whose journey reflects academic excellence, perseverance and a commitment to empowering others.

Prof Mashigo made history as the Faculty's first female Executive Dean, representing a defining moment in its development. Her appointment demonstrates the growing presence of women in leadership and offers visible representation to young women entering higher education. She often reminds aspiring leaders that: "There is a place for you in the leadership space."

Her achievements extend beyond personal success. It reflects the growing opportunities available to women in academia, business, economics, finance and institutional leadership. By occupying one of the Faculty's highest leadership positions, she encourages women to see leadership as both attainable and necessary.

Prof Mashigo's academic journey further reinforces that message. She holds a D Litt et Phil in Economics from the University of Johannesburg and a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Higher Education Management from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom. Her qualifications reflect years of dedication to research, continuous learning and academic excellence.

For the students, academics and professionals she mentors, her accomplishments are a reminder that education is a powerful vehicle for transformation. Her journey demonstrates the value of perseverance, discipline and believing in one's own potential.

Prof Mashigo views leadership as more than holding a senior position. She believes leadership involves developing others, creating opportunities and empowering people to realise their potential. Her influence can be seen in the encouragement she offers, the knowledge she shares and the confidence she instils in those around her.

She also places strong emphasis on mentorship. She believes effective mentorship involves sharing knowledge, opening doors, building confidence and helping others navigate spaces that may once have seemed out of reach. Her approach encourages women to support and uplift one another while creating opportunities for future leaders.

To young women, her journey conveys a clear message: circumstances do not determine destiny. She encourages women to pursue education, develop expertise, build networks and learn from those who have gone before them. While challenges may arise, every barrier overcome creates opportunities for others to follow.

In her own words, Prof Mashigo reemphasised that: "You are all born with a talent, therefore nurture your mind with great thoughts, silence the voice that says you are a failure and it will disappear."

Prof Mashigo's influence extends beyond the university. Her story highlights the important role women play in shaping South Africa's future across education, government, business, finance, entrepreneurship, science, technology, research and community development. Her leadership demonstrates what is possible when women pursue knowledge, embrace responsibility and use their positions to create positive change.

This Women's Month, the Faculty of Economics and Finance celebrates Prof Mashigo as an academic, leader, mentor and role model. Her journey reminds us that true leadership is measured not only by individual achievement but also by the ability to inspire, empower and create opportunities for others to succeed.