Future Leaders Shine at IIE MSA’s Ladies to Legends Event

The power of women’s voices and leadership took centre stage at IIE MSA recently when 64 female students gathered for the annual Ladies to Legends event. This year’s theme, “Ladies in Leadership,” celebrated women’s contributions to society while encouraging young women to embrace empowerment, excellence and leadership.

The event featured an inspiring panel of women leaders: Boitumelo Phetlhu, honours student in Business Science and President of the MSA Voice Committee; Sithisa Magxwalisa-Myeko, an industrial psychologist; Devrani Moonsamy, Head of Finance at the Ombud Council and member of CFO South Africa; and Karen Jacobs, Captain Relief Commander at the South African Police Services.

Each panellist shared personal insights and professional lessons aimed at motivating the next generation.

• Moonsamyhighlighted the importance of financial literacy and leadership in building sustainable futures.
• Magxwalisa-Myeko spoke about workplace wellness, personal development and the role of habits in shaping long-term success.
• Jacobs offered practical advice on resilience, safety and confidence-building.

For the students, the event was both uplifting and personal. “Ladies to Legends reminded me of the powerful lineage of women that raised me from my great-grandmother, grandmother and mother,” saidAzanathi Genu, a second-year Bachelor of Laws student. “I was especially inspired by Sithisa, who emphasised the power of our habits and how our choices can shape our future. I left with a renewed commitment to authenticity, purpose and sisterhood.”

Through stories of resilience and leadership, the panel gave students both encouragement and tools to chart impactful careers. More importantly, the dialogue fostered a sense of community and sisterhood, reminding participants that empowerment is not just about personal success but about lifting others along the way.

The Ladies to Legends event continue to shine as a platform where young women are inspired to lead with purpose, authenticity and confidence qualities that will serve them well in shaping tomorrow’s society.