LeadHERship programme equips young women for career success
Pizza Hut’s LeadHERship initiative recently hosted a vibrant event in Bryanston, helping young women build confidence, craft standout CVs, and harness digital tools for career growth.
Pizza Hut’s LeadHERship initiative continues to champion the empowerment of young women in South Africa, recently hosting an event focused on equipping them with essential skills to excel in the workplace.
The event, held at Pizza Hut’s head office in Bryanston, brought together over 40 attendees from cohort 3 of the programme.
The day kicked off with testimonies from Lindiwe Ndlovu and Sinethemba Mokopeni, alumni of cohort 2, who shared their inspiring journeys of growth and transformation.
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Ndlovu recounted her evolution from a shy call centre agent, to a marketing professional, emphasising that confidence and opportunity go hand in hand. Mokopeni highlighted how her experience in photography school transitioned into real-world client work through LeadHERship, culminating in her current role as a marketing co-ordinator. “If something scares you, do it anyway,” she said.
Attendees then received expert guidance on creating impactful CVs from Nitika Datta, talent acquisition lead at Pizza Hut Africa.
She underscored the importance of clarity, structure, and tailored content, sharing tips on including contact details, LinkedIn profiles, action words, and quantifiable achievements. “For entry level, a one-page CV is enough for someone without working experience, while professionals with more experience should limit theirs to two pages. Recruiters take just five seconds to scan your CV, so, structure it well, focus on what you bring to the table, and make every word count.”
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Building on employability skills, Pizza Hut Africa brand manager Kelsey Tennent urged participants to harness accessible digital tools, like ChatGPT, Canva, LinkedIn, and Job Mail, to enhance their job search efforts. “These tools are at your fingertips. Use them to stand out. Personalise your applications, and connect with confidence.”
The session also featured a practical styling workshop, led by personal stylist Pippa J, who shared insights on dressing for success. She said 80% of first impressions are based on appearance, and offered actionable advice on grooming, fit, and appropriate accessories.
Her top three wardrobe must-haves for students: A pair of neutral shoes, a classic button-down shirt, and a pencil skirt. “Your wardrobe should help you put your best foot forward because confidence starts with feeling good in what you wear.”
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Host Rirhandzu Manganye, head of brand marketing for Pizza Hut Africa, summed up the event’s impact. “By sharing extra tips on landing that job, LeadHERship participants were empowered to take control of their future.”
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